The UAE has escalated to the 21st position in the Global Happiness Index 2025, hence exceeding the ranking for the UK, the US, Germany, France, Singapore, and all Arab nations. Experts do state that the economy, social support systems, and infrastructure development have greatly contributed to this ascent.
The release of the World Happiness Report 2025 by Gallup attests to the generous nature of the UAE. The nation is now rated 16th in cash donations and 19th in terms of volunteering. The same research puts it at 67th for helping a stranger. Interestingly, on the concept of trust, the UAE sits highly on the twelfth position in believing that a stranger would return the forgotten wallet.
When it comes to relevant factors impacting the happiness of the residents of the UAE, the economy stands out. Perceived opportunities for work, economic conditions, and living standards were cited as contributing factors to the overall well-being that the report suggests are among the most positive in years.
According to Jon Clifton, CEO of Gallup, happiness cannot simply be maximized by wealth; it must include trust and a network of human connections. “Happiness isn’t just about wealth or growth—it’s about trust, connection, and knowing people have your back,” he affirmed.
In keeping with this spirit, the UAE announced that the year 2025 would be the “Year of Community,” a program intended to build on family ties and social bonds. Such programs are essential to create a happier society, the experts say. “Human happiness is driven by our relationships with others,” said Lara Aknin, a professor of social psychology at Simon Fraser University and an editor of the report.
Finland captured the first position in the world ranking for eight straight years, just as Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, and the Netherlands followed suit. In contrast, the last places on the index were occupied by Afghanistan, Sierra Leone, and Lebanon.
The steady ascent of the UAE in global happiness rankings reflects its ongoing endeavors to cultivate a prosperous and interrelated community that recognizes happiness.
