Abu Dhabi isn’t just building skyscrapers—it’s building smiles. According to Gensler’s newly unveiled City Pulse 2025 report, the UAE capital has secured second place globally in resident satisfaction, standing tall right behind Shanghai and ahead of global powerhouses like Dubai and Singapore. But this ranking isn’t just about fast Wi-Fi or gleaming highways—it’s about something deeper: emotional connection, community, and belonging.
The groundbreaking study surveyed 33,000 residents across 65 cities on six continents, revealing a powerful truth: people stay not because of opportunity alone, but because they feel something—joy, pride, and yes, love—for the place they call home. In Abu Dhabi, a stunning 92% of residents said they were ‘satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’, a metric that speaks volumes about the emirate’s holistic approach to urban living.
While infrastructure and economic opportunity remain strong, Gensler’s report reframes cities as “emotional ecosystems”, and Abu Dhabi is clearly mastering the formula. From cultural landmarks like the Louvre Abu Dhabi to progressive policies like the Golden Visa, the city is focused on more than just growth—it’s cultivating a sense of permanence. People don’t just move here; they put down roots, raise families, and imagine futures.
But it’s not all sunshine and satisfaction. Affordability looms as a critical issue worldwide, and Abu Dhabi is no exception. Gensler warns that rising living costs can threaten even the most beloved cities. The report urges leaders to address economic inclusion, accessible housing, and urban design that invites everyone to participate—not just reside.
In response, Abu Dhabi’s leadership is aligning its ambitions with long-term visions like “We the UAE 2031” and “Vision 2071,” placing human-centric policies and emotional wellbeing at the core of its planning. As Tim Martin of Gensler Middle East puts it, “The next era isn’t about infrastructure—it’s about belonging.”
So yes, Abu Dhabi is hot. But more importantly—it’s home. ❤️
