The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has ascended to the 21st position globally in the 2025 World Happiness Report, surpassing countries like the UK, US, Germany, and France. This advancement underscores the nation’s dedication to enhancing the well-being and happiness of its residents.
In recent years, the concept of national progress has evolved beyond economic indicators to encompass the well-being and happiness of citizens. The World Happiness Report, an annual publication by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network, evaluates global happiness by ranking countries based on various well-being indicators. In its 2025 edition, the report highlights the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a nation making significant strides in promoting happiness among its residents.
UAE’s Progress in Global Happiness Rankings
The UAE’s rise to the 21st position in the 2025 World Happiness Report is a testament to its ongoing efforts to prioritize the happiness and well-being of its citizens. This improvement reflects the nation’s commitment to creating a positive environment that fosters personal and communal growth.
Key Initiatives Driving Happiness in the UAE
Several strategic initiatives have contributed to the UAE’s enhanced happiness rankings:
- National Programme for Happiness and Wellbeing
Launched to inspire individuals, government entities, and the broader community, this program aims to cultivate well-being as a way of life. It focuses on integrating happiness into governmental policies, promoting positive lifestyles, and developing tools to measure national happiness.
- Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing
In 2016, the UAE appointed a Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing to lead initiatives that enhance citizen well-being. This role underscores the government’s dedication to making happiness a national priority.
- Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033
Announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, this multi-phased plan running from 2024 to 2033 prioritizes resident well-being in all aspects of life and features more than 200 projects and initiatives.
- World Happiness Council
Established to promote happiness and subjective well-being globally, the World Happiness Council identifies public policies for policymakers worldwide and standardizes happiness as a measure to guide governments.
Impact on Various Demographics
The UAE’s focus on happiness has yielded positive outcomes across different segments of the population:
Senior Citizens: Emirati senior citizens are among the happiest globally, reflecting the country’s comprehensive social support systems.
Employees: The UAE ranks high in employee well-being, surpassing the global average and many developed countries.
Children: Children in the UAE and Gulf countries are treated with dignity and respect, with residents believing that children have more opportunities to learn and grow than in other developed countries.
Government Initiatives and Policies
The UAE government has implemented several policies to promote happiness:
Budget Allocation: The UAE cabinet approved a 12% spending increase in the 2025 budget, with almost 40% allocated to social development and pensions, emphasizing education and healthcare.
4-Day Work Week: The UAE is among countries experimenting with a 4-day work week to enhance work-life balance and productivity.
The UAE’s rise in the World Happiness Report rankings is a reflection of its dedicated efforts to prioritize the well-being of its residents. Through comprehensive programs, strategic initiatives, and substantial investments in social infrastructure, the nation continues to set a benchmark for happiness and quality of life.
