globally,Kuwait's average net salary places it at the 36th spot in 2025, making it the fourth highest in the Gulf region.
Top 10 Highest-Paying Countries and High-Earning Industries for 2025
In a recent report by CEO World magazine, Switzerland has been crowned as the highest-paying country in the world for 2025, with an average monthly net income of $8,218. Luxembourg follows closely in second place, with an average monthly net income of $6,740, and the United States ranks third with $6,562.
Iceland, Norway, Denmark, Canada, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Singapore complete the top ten list. Each of these countries offers attractive salaries, with Iceland boasting an average monthly net income of $6,548, Norway at $5,772, Denmark at $5,749, Canada at $5,188, Ireland at $4,729, the Netherlands at $4,688, and Singapore at $4,457.
The report also sheds light on the industries offering the highest wages globally. Finance and insurance, electricity and mining, information technology (IT), retail, and education sectors are the top-paying industries. Conversely, administrative support, hospitality, and construction sectors are at the lower end of the pay scale.
Despite these promising figures, it's important to note that ongoing inflationary pressures, pandemic-related supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions like the Russia-Ukraine war and Middle East instability could affect real purchasing power.
In the Gulf region, Qatar ranks second with an average net monthly salary of $3,275, while the United Arab Emirates ranks above Kuwait with an average net monthly salary of $3,770. Saudi Arabia follows in third place with $1,995.
When evaluating salaries, it's crucial to consider inflation, as it can erode real purchasing power. Professionals seeking lucrative salaries in 2025 should consider these top-paying countries and industries to maximise their earnings.
In the list of top-paying countries for 2025, the business sector in Switzerland offers competitive salaries with an average monthly net income of $8,218. The finance and insurance industry, recognized as one of the top-paying globally, will likely offer attractive remuneration in this high-earning country.
Given the high average net monthly income of $6,740 in Luxembourg, professionals pursuing careers in the finance and business sectors may find lucrative opportunities in this country as well.
