HSBC has released its annual ranking of the top places to live as an expat, ranking Switzerland at the top of the list overall, with Egypt in 34th place.
The study, which ranked the 34 countries on indicators such as salaries earned, social life, ability to raise children abroad and more, surveyed 9,288 expatriates in more than 100 countries.
Egypt, which had ranked 34th out of 37 in the 2013 study, was found to have the best cost of education available to children of foreigners. The country known for its ancient Egyptian history was also praised for the ability of expats to learn the local language, ranking 10th in the study.
Despite positive results in culture, cost of education, weather and social life, Egypt fell behind in overall incomes, healthcare, work environments, transport, the quality of education and more. According to the HSBC study, health care in Egypt is expensive and low quality.
Among those polled, expats highlighted the hospitality of Egyptians but warned of the chaotic and fast-paced environment which may shock first-time visitors.
“Smiles and friendly waves of thanks are welcomed in any language,” said one respondent in 2014.
“If possible, arrange for a short ‘look and see’ visit to the country to get an initial feel for how things work and operate. Talk to local expats to get the low down,” said another respondent from 2012.
HSBC explains that the survey focuses on the experiences of expats in their new country of residence, with expats from all over the world describing the opportunities and challenges they face living away from home.
To check out the rankings and play around with interactive tables and maps, click here.
Comments (3)
How is a ranking of 34th “among the best”? Bit of a stretch
Out of 196 countries around the world, Egypt is one of the top 34 right behind the UK, Brazil, Italy and the US. That’s an achievement even if it’s last on that list. especially when you consider the events that took place int he last three years.
bravo