The UAE has been setting a model for the rest of the world on several fronts and one of the most outstanding successes has been in the field of safety and security.

The ranking of the UAE as the safest country in the world in 2018 as per international security standards is a matter of pride for each and every citizen and resident.

At a time when the rest of the world has been struggling immensely on this front, the UAE authorities deserve a salute for leaving no stone unturned to keep the country safe and secure.

It’s heartening that the nation’s security rating last year touched 96.1%, while ranking second in the world in terms of emergency response with a stable and secure business environment by 91%.

Figures speak volumes about the feat. According to the security indicators, the recorded deaths in traffic accidents reached 3.83 cases per 100,000 people. The most disturbing crimes declined recording 49.6 crimes for the same number of people. The rape crimes also decreased to 1.2, leading the UAE to be least of such type of crimes.

That’s not all. The kidnapping rate showed 0.8, making the UAE even more secure than some countries such as Switzerland, Britain and Sweden.

The homicide rate was 0.7, which is the best among the world’s countries. In means of transport per 100,000 people, the 8.2 robbery mark surpasses many countries like Germany, Britain, Sweden and Switzerland.

As pointed out by Major General Abdulqudous Al-Obaidli, head of the executive team assigned to follow-up indicators of the national agenda at the Ministry of Interior, the indicator of security feeling in 2018 reaching 96.1% is a fruit of the efforts exerted nationwide despite the challenges facing the countries of the world.

The beauty of it all is that security measures are taken in a way all aspects are covered. For example, tight measures ensure safety while using technology. The UAE leads the world in terms of Internet user penetration at a staggering rate of 98%, as well as smartphone penetration with 82%. It comes out on top in terms of the penetration of user accounts of Facebook, which stands at 83%, frequent users of Whatsapp, which are also around 83% of the population.

Instagram account penetration is said to be at 53%. The average daily time spent online per person in the UAE is stated to be 8 hours.

Lt. General Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, made it clear last week that the UAE under the wise leadership is unwavering in its efforts to enhance digital life safety and protect citizens from online threats.

Right from the beginning, the authorities have underlined zero tolerance towards any kind of violent disruption to social life. What is abundantly clear is that the UAE remains ever vigilant and safe and anyone who even thinks of disrupting the security or stability enjoyed by the people will be faced with the full force of the police and the community.

A safe place is a happy place and that’s what the UAE offers. The “safest country” tag comes as another good reason for residents to cheer and tourists to make the most of the distinguished Emirati hospitality.