UAE Rises in Global Happiness Index 2025: Ranking Above UK, US, and France
The UAE continues to shine on the global stage, climbing to the 21st spot in the World Happiness Index 2025. This remarkable achievement positions the nation ahead of major global economies, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, France, and Singapore. As the highest-ranking Arab country on the index, the UAE’s success highlights its commitment to enhancing the well-being of its residents and citizens.
Key Factors Behind the UAE’s High Happiness Ranking
The UAE’s rise in the World Happiness Index can be attributed to several factors:
Strong Economy: The country’s economic stability and growth create job opportunities and a high standard of living.
Social Support: A strong sense of community and government-backed welfare programs contribute to societal happiness.
World-Class Infrastructure: The UAE’s modern infrastructure, safety, and high-quality public services enhance overall life satisfaction.
Culture of Giving: The UAE ranked 16th in the world for donating money and 19th for volunteering time, showcasing its commitment to social responsibility.

Interesting Insights from the World Happiness Report 2025
While the UAE scores impressively in philanthropy and social trust, it ranked 67th for helping a stranger, revealing an area for potential growth in fostering daily community interactions. However, it secured 12th place globally for the belief that a stranger would return a lost wallet, reflecting a high level of trust among residents.
Happiness Beyond Wealth: A Focus on Community & Social Bonds
According to Gallup CEO Jon Clifton, happiness is about more than just economic prosperity. It’s built on trust, human connections, and social investments. Recognizing this, the UAE has declared 2025 as the ‘Year of Community’, aiming to strengthen family and social bonds across the nation.
“Human happiness is driven by our relationships with others. Investing in positive social connections and engaging in benevolent actions lead to greater happiness.” — Lara Aknin, Editor, World Happiness Report
The top 10 happiest countries in 2025 include:
- Finland
- Denmark
- Iceland
- Sweden
- Netherlands
- Costa Rica
- Norway
- Israel
- Luxembourg
- Mexico
Meanwhile, the bottom-ranked countries in the World Happiness Report 2025 include Afghanistan, Sierra Leone, Lebanon, and Yemen, struggling due to economic hardships and instability.
With a continuous focus on economic growth, social well-being, and community-driven initiatives, the UAE is setting an example for nations worldwide. By investing in what truly matters—its people—the country is paving the way for a happier, more prosperous future.
As the UAE strengthens its position in the global happiness rankings, its emphasis on trust, generosity, and social connectivity will continue to shape its thriving society.
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Source : khaleej Times