Under the patronage of Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Federal Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (TDA) has spearheaded the first study revealing residents' quality of life in the emirate – The Ras Al Khaimah Quality of Life Study. Working with world-renowned market research company, Nielsen, Ras Al Khaimah TDA commissioned the research to examine and evaluate the quality of life amongst local residents. The study was conducted in a bid to determine any areas of development required to bolster the destination's offering and ensure efforts are maximized to contribute towards making the UAE one of the happiest countries in the world as per the World Happiness Report. The country currently ranks 28th, out of 156 countries worldwide. A staggering 91 percent of respondents claim the emirate is a safe city to live in, and 79 percent are satisfied with their work-life balance. Both safety and work-life balance play an important role in ensuring a high quality of life, providing Ras Al Khaimah with an edge over other metropolitan areas globally. The emirate's efforts to preserve its culture and heritage, one of its core attributes, is reinforced by survey respondents sentiments – 68 percent of which believe the architecture and building design in Ras Al Khaimah depicts the heritage of the emirate, with one of the Emirati focus group participants, stating: "Ras Al Khaimah is beautiful.. it feels like you are still in an Arab country." Haitham Mattar, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah TDA, said: "Ras Al Khaimah's natural assets clearly shape a high quality of life for our residents, as we continue to develop a leading destination worthy of attracting not only professionals looking to live and work in the emirate, but also global travellers. The emirate offers a peaceful alternative to the hustle and bustle of other cities, providing good value for money and an enviable lifestyle. Access to beautiful beaches, nature, mountains and desert in an authentic Arabian setting is a draw for expatriates, residents and tourists alike." "As we welcome increasing visitor numbers year-on-year, we are equally keen to ensure that we are constantly enhancing the quality of life of our residents. It is this quality way of life that sets the benchmark in Arabian hospitality, as well as acting as a major draw for international hospitality professionals, eager to sample a taste of life in the emirate," he added. — SG
