The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has achieved a notable milestone by ranking 21st in the World Happiness Report for 2025, surpassing prominent nations such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, France, Singapore, and all Arab countries. This ranking indicates a significant improvement from previous years, highlighting the UAE's efforts to enhance the quality of life for its residents.
According to the report released by Gallup, the UAE scored high in various areas contributing to its happiness index. It is particularly significant that the UAE ranked as the 16th highest globally in financial generosity and 19th in volunteer work—demonstrating a strong culture of giving among its citizens. Additionally, the country is ranked 12th globally in the belief that a lost wallet would be returned by a stranger.
Juli Ray, editor of World News at Gallup, explained that the UAE's high ranking is attributed to its strong economy, high levels of social support, and robust infrastructure. “In many ways, the UAE enjoys a strong culture of giving—which we know is linked to happiness,” Ray stated. The positive perception of labor market conditions, economic circumstances, and living standards have positively impacted overall happiness among the UAE population.
This year’s World Happiness Report indicates that happiness is not merely tied to wealth and growth but encompasses trust, connections with neighbors, and an understanding that people support one another. John Clifton, CEO of Gallup, affirmed this notion by stating, “This report proves that we underestimate how kind the world is. If we want stronger communities and economies, we need to invest in what truly matters: each other.”
To further support the well-being of its residents, the UAE has declared 2025 as the “Year of Community,” aiming to strengthen family and community bonds that play a vital role in societal happiness. Lara Aknin, a social psychology professor at Simon Fraser University and a researcher for the World Happiness Report, emphasized that happiness arises from our relationships with others. She said, “Investing in positive social relationships and engaging in charitable acts leads to greater happiness.”
Globally, Finland continues to hold the title of the happiest country for the eighth consecutive year, followed by Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Costa Rica. This observation reflects the Nordic nations' ongoing commitment to social welfare and community-centric policies, contributing to their standings in the happiness rankings.
In contrast, Afghanistan, Sierra Leone, Lebanon, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Yemen, the Comoros Islands, and Lesotho filled the lower ranks of the report, indicating various challenges affecting their populations' well-being.
Overall, the findings reveal that perceptions of the labor market, economic conditions, and living standards have remained positive in the UAE. The data for this report drew from surveys across more than 140 countries, focusing on individuals’ ratings of their life quality over the past three years, specifically from 2022 to 2024.
As the UAE moves forward, its commitment to enhancing social ties and community bonds through initiatives like the “Year of Community” aligns with the comprehensive understanding that happiness is intrinsically linked to the social fabric of society. Efforts to continue building a supportive community will undoubtedly play a significant role in future happiness rankings for the nation.
The UAE's impressive 2025 ranking in the World Happiness Report serves as a testament to the governmental and societal efforts in fostering a supportive and joyous environment for its citizens. This ongoing commitment to creating a better quality of life reflects the sentiments echoed in John Helliwell's remarks regarding public perceptions of happiness and kindness among individuals.
While the UAE celebrates its achievements in the happiness index, it remains crucial to acknowledge that enduring happiness involves continuous investment in community strengths and social relationships. Through collaboration and support, both individual and collective happiness can thrive.
