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Saudi Arabia Ranks 22nd In 2026 World Happiness Report, Surpasses US And UK

These factors include income levels, social support, health, freedom of choice, generosity, and trust in institutions.

by Deeplata Garde
Saudi Arabia Ranks 22nd In 2026 World Happiness Report, Surpasses US And UK

Saudi Arabia has taken a huge jump in the World Happiness Report. The Kingdom has currently been ranked 22nd in the 2026 World Happiness Report, improving 15 in a single year. It’s not just a number but an indication of a change in people’s everyday lives.

Saudi Arabia Leaps 15 Spots Up In World Happiness Report

According to the report by Arab News, this increase is closely associated with shifts caused by Vision 2030 and overall efforts aimed at elevating living conditions.

The World Happiness Report does not just focus on income. It examines the ratings of people’s lives in 147 countries. The information is based on the world surveys conducted by Gallup and interpreted by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.

Using averages between 2023 and 2025, Saudi Arabia scored 6.817 out of 10.

There are several factors that influence the score. These factors include income levels, social support, health, freedom of choice, generosity, and trust in institutions. Collectively, they present a more comprehensive image of wellbeing.

In Front Of Major Global Economies

The most recent surveys rank Saudi Arabia over some heavyweights. The United States ranks second, Canada ranks 25th, and the United Kingdom ranks 29th.

That shift stands out. It demonstrates the pace with which the Kingdom has changed regarding quality of life, at least as perceived by its inhabitants.

In the Middle East, the Gulf countries remain doing well, mostly because of excellent living standards and satisfactory public services.

Vision 2030 Alters Everyday Life

A lot of this development is associated with Vision 2030. Reforms have redefined jobs, infrastructure, and leisure in the past ten years.

Cities have changed. There is a more dynamic feel to the public spaces. There has been an expansion of cultural events, entertainment centres, and community projects. The Quality of Life Programme, specifically, is supposed to make urban life more pleasant and affordable.

People manifest these changes in mundane ways, such as managing their evenings, uniting as a family, and fostering relationships within communities.

Also Read: 7 Best Things to Do in Saudi Arabia This March That Should Be On Your Radar

Happiness Is Also About People

The report mentions something often overlooked. Not only is happiness about wealth, but also about relationships.

Socially related and trustworthy countries will be ranked higher. Mundane practices: eating with friends, maintaining contact with friends, belonging to some sort of group: these things may not count as much as they appear.

Nordic countries, such as Finland, are still at the top. They use stable systems and high levels of trust, which makes them successful.

Saudi Arabia demonstrates a similar trend, which is rising consistently higher.

Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/Oneinchpunch

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First Published: March 23, 2026 4:54 PM

FAQs

What is Saudi Arabia’s rank in the 2026 Happiness Report?

It ranks 22nd globally after climbing 15 places.

How has Vision 2030 influenced this ranking?

It has improved jobs, infrastructure, and lifestyle options across the country.

Which country is ranked happiest in 2026?

Finland holds the top position once again.