The richest countries in the world

Blessed with the third-largest natural gas reserves in the world, Qatar is the world's richest country per capita, latest list by Forbes reveals.

Qatar has been ranked as the world's richest country per capita 

in a new list compiled by US-based Forbes magazine. Blessed

with the third-largest natural gas reserves in the world, the Arab

Gulf emirate of 1.7 million people is benefitting from a rebound

in oil prices.

In second place on the list is Luxembourg, with a per capita GDP on

a purchasing-power parity (PPP) basis of $81,466. 

Technology, manufacturing and finance hub Singapore is ranked

third on the list. The country’s GDP (PPP) per capita is $56,694.

Rank the world’s wealthiest countries, Forbes looked at GDP per

capita adjusted for purchasing power for 182 nations. At No.4, with 

a GDP (PPP) per capita of $51,959 (estimated from 2009) is Norway.

Oil-rich Brunei (ranked at No.5) has a GDP (PPP) per capita

of $48,333. Forbes used International Monetary Fund data from 

2010,the most recent available, while GDP figures for some countries 

were projections.

UAE oil reserves are ranked as the world's sixth-largest and it 

possesses one of the most developed economies in West Asia. 

The country’s GDP (PPP) per capita is $47,439. 

With a GDP (PPP) per capita of $46,860, US is ranked at No.7 

on the Forbes list.

Hong Kong is renowned for its expansive skyline and deep 

natural harbour. As one of the world's leading international financial 

centres, Hong Kong has a major capitalist service economy characterised

by low taxation and free trade, and the currency, Hong Kong has a

GDP (PPP) per capita of $45,944.

Switzerland is one of the richest countries in the world by

per capita gross domestic product [GDP (PPP) per capita: $41,950].

The Netherlands was one of the world’s first countries to have 

an elected parliament. And the benefits of democracy seem to be 

reaching its citizens. Its GDP (PPP) per capita is $40,973.

A highly developed country, Australia is one of the world's largest economies.GDP (PPP) per capita: [$39,764].

Also known for its high standard of living, Austria is ranked at

No 12 with GDP (PPP) per capita of $39,761. 

Ireland: GDP (PPP) per capita: $39,492.

 

Canada has a diversified economy that is reliant upon its abundant 

natural resources and upon trade. The country’s GDP (PPP)

per capita is $39,171. 

Kuwait (No.15) has the world's fifth largest oil reserves and its 

petroleum products now account for around 95% of export 

revenues, and approximately 80% of government income. Ranked

at No.15, the country’s GDP (PPP) per capita is $38,775.