Abu Dhabi Crowned World’s Happiest City for 2025: A Celebration of Joy and Community Spirit

Abu Dhabi has officially been crowned the world’s happiest city for 2025, according to the prestigious Time Out Index. The survey, which collects feedback from thousands of residents worldwide, highlights Abu Dhabi’s exceptional quality of life, strong sense of community, and growing optimism.

Dubai also made it to the list, ranking 16th among the world’s top 20 happiest cities, proving once again that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to lead in creating joyful, vibrant, and inclusive environments for its people.

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What Makes Abu Dhabi the Happiest City in the World?

Abu Dhabi’s ranking is not just about luxury or modern infrastructure it reflects the deep sense of belonging and satisfaction residents feel in their daily lives. The city has invested heavily in social development, cultural inclusivity, and sustainability, which are major contributors to happiness and well-being.

The Time Out 2025 Index evaluated cities based on positive responses to five main statements that measure how people perceive happiness in their surroundings. These statements included:

• “My city makes me happy.”
• “I feel happier in my city than in other places I’ve lived or visited.”
• “The people in my city seem happy.”
• “I find joy in the everyday experiences my city offers.”
• “The sense of happiness in my city has grown significantly in recent times.”

Residents of Abu Dhabi showed overwhelming positivity in their responses, giving the city the highest score globally.

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Global Rankings: Cities That Followed Abu Dhabi

Following Abu Dhabi, Medellín (Colombia) secured second place, known for its remarkable urban transformation and vibrant social culture. Cape Town (South Africa) came third, admired for its natural beauty and lively community life. Mexico City ranked fourth, while Mumbai (India) claimed fifth place, highlighting the growing importance of emotional well-being in fast-developing cities.

Other top-ranked cities included Beijing, Shanghai, Chicago, Seville, and Melbourne, rounding out the top ten.

The rest of the list featured Brighton, Porto, Sydney, Chiang Mai, and Marrakech, with Dubai proudly holding the 16th spot. Completing the top 20 were Hanoi, Jakarta, Valencia, and Glasgow.

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Dubai’s 16th Place: A Testament to UAE’s Consistent Progress

While Abu Dhabi took the global spotlight, Dubai’s 16th ranking is equally impressive. The city continues to stand out for its innovation, tolerance, and vibrant social life. Dubai’s mix of tradition and modernity offers residents a unique sense of fulfillment and optimism.

The city’s focus on mental health awareness, community engagement, and sustainable living has made it a hub for happiness-driven initiatives. With major cultural events, green public spaces, and world-class infrastructure, Dubai remains one of the most desirable cities to live in.

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Why the UAE Leads in Global Happiness Rankings

The UAE’s leadership has consistently placed happiness and well-being at the heart of its national agenda. Initiatives like the UAE National Program for Happiness and Wellbeing aim to integrate happiness into government policies, workplace environments, and daily life.

Abu Dhabi and Dubai both promote a balanced lifestyle, encouraging physical wellness, mental health support, and community involvement. The results of the Time Out Index 2025 highlight that these efforts are paying off, as residents express genuine contentment and gratitude for their lives in the UAE.

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A Model for the World

Abu Dhabi’s recognition as the happiest city in the world for 2025 sets a powerful example for other global cities. It shows that happiness doesn’t only come from economic growth or technological advancement, but from a sense of purpose, community, and compassion among people.

With its focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and emotional well-being, Abu Dhabi is proving that true happiness is about creating a city where every individual feels valued and connected.

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Conclusion

Being crowned the world’s happiest city for 2025, Abu Dhabi reflects the UAE’s visionary approach to happiness and human development. From thriving communities to forward-thinking governance, every element of life in Abu Dhabi promotes joy and togetherness.

As the world takes note, the UAE continues to inspire others to prioritize happiness as a core part of progress.