Global management consulting firm Kearney has released its 2023 Global Cities Index, and the Middle East is having a moment. While Dubai continues to headline-grab with its third consecutive top-25 finish, it’s actually Doha, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, and Manama that are making the biggest waves in the region.

Kearney assessed 156 cities worldwide, and Doha jumped seven spots to land at 50th globally, securing second place in the MENA region. But how did it get there?

Doha’s big win comes down to significant improvements in the human capital dimension, where it climbed a whopping 13 places.

This surge was primarily fueled by the return to pre-pandemic levels of international travel, attracting a flood of migrant talent and tourism.

Remember that FIFA World Cup 2022 that welcomed over 1.4 million visitors? Yeah, that helped.

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Qatar’s capital city also saw a six-point jump in its business activity dimension, reaping the rewards of its open economic policies.

“Qatar’s commitment to its Vision 2030 has propelled its capital city towards the forefront of global cities,” said Kearney partner Rudolph Lohmeyer. “By focusing on improving the investment environment, building upon its world-class educational system, and making it easier to attract global talent, Doha has proven its resilience in challenging global times.”

These cities are quietly making their mark on the world, and they’re ready to take on the likes of London, New York, and Tokyo!