COPENHAGEN — Copenhagen tops the Economist Intelligence Unit's annual Global Liveability Ranking for the second consecutive year, maintaining strong performance across categories measuring urban quality of life.
Cities across the Middle East recorded the steepest regional decline in average liveability scores. Dubai and other Gulf cities fell as ongoing conflicts weighed on stability and related factors.
Damascus remains the least liveable city globally. The EIU index assesses 173 cities across five categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education and infrastructure.
Tehran dropped to 164th place in the 2026 index, with the EIU attributing the decline to the war affecting the broader region. Kyiv fell to 166th place as fighting continues to erode conditions for residents, particularly in stability and infrastructure.
Europe and Australia dominate the upper rankings. Seven of the top 10 cities are on those two continents, reflecting consistent standards in public services and urban development.
Copenhagen's position reflects civic stability, a comprehensive healthcare system and well-maintained infrastructure.
