The 2016 World Happiness Report named UAE as the 28th happiest country in the world and the first among Arab countries.
The report released by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network is based on an opinion survey conducted by Gallup Institute in 157 countries. According to Gulf News, the survey measures happiness levels using factors such as per capita income and standard of living as well as satisfaction with life.
The UAE government announced results yesterday as part of the overall results of community indexes covering happiness, family cohesion, social solidarity, loyalty to the nation and leadership and national identity.
The announcement comes in line with the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who launched national agenda index reports as part of the National Agenda of the UAE Vision 2021.
The indexes measure achievements made by the UAE and the steps it has taken to realize the national goals and the UAE vision, aiming at increasing happiness rates, enhancing family cohesion, social solidarity and feeling proud of national identity as well as deepening allegiance and loyalty to the nation and its leadership, and doubling sports achievements.
The happiness index is a composite indicator that measures an individual’s assessment of their standards of living and life satisfaction, using a survey to assess the extent to which individuals feel happy and satisfied with their lives. It includes perspectives such as income level (GDP per capita), average healthy life expectancy, social support, generosity, absence of corruption, and freedom to make life choices.
