Safe place to live and work, possibility of making good friends and having a comfortable lifestyle are the main attractions of living in the GCC, a new report said.

The Western Union Company, a world leading money transfer company, today (September 29) revealed several interesting insights about the lives of residents in the GCC while highlighting the attractiveness of living in the region.

Sixty per cent of respondents pointed to a deep sense of safety and security as being the top reason that makes living in the GCC feel like home for them, while 52 per cent cited the presence of an extensive network of friends and 49 per cent the comfortable lifestyle they enjoy as reasons that encourage them want to stay on in the region.

About 65 per cent of the survey respondents commented that they had achieved their primary goal of saving money in the GCC further underscoring the appeal of the region in terms of facilitating the accomplishment of their top personal goal.

The survey, a part of the "My Yellow Brick Road" campaign brought to life the personal stories of individuals from different countries who participated in the survey, while asking respondents to share their thoughts and experiences on life in the region.

The work they do plays a significant role in the life of residents in the GCC, with as many as 70 per cent respondents saying their job was "very important" in terms of contributing to their host countries, and 63 per cent of respondents said they enjoyed their work.

"The results of the 'My Yellow Brick Road' campaign revealed interesting insights about the experience and aspirations of a diverse community who have come to build their careers and future in the GCC," said Hatem Sleiman, regional vice president - Middle East at Western Union.

"For these residents, the GCC as a region is their home away from home, and the survey results underscore the deep-felt appreciation they have for the boundless opportunities and growth potential the region has provided them.

“As a global payment services provider that millions of people in the region rely on, Western Union is pleased to be associated with this initiative in highlighting their stories and their integral role in GCC society while acknowledging their contribution to the success of nations in the region." Sleiman added.

The "My Yellow Brick Road" campaign derives its title from the popular children's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" where the main character embarks on a magical journey travelling along the Yellow Brick Road to achieve their goals. – TradeArabia News Service