Saudi Arabia climbs to 22nd place in the 2026 World Happiness Report
Here’s some positive news from the Kingdom today
After eight years of living in Saudi Arabia, it’s hard not to notice how much everyday life has evolved. When I first arrived, weekends were fairly low-key.
Today, cities feel busier, more dynamic and full of things to do – and the latest global rankings suggest many residents are feeling that change, too.
Saudi Arabia climbs the rankings
In the 2026 World Happiness Report, Saudi Arabia climbed 10 places to rank 22nd globally. In last year’s report, the Kingdom was 32nd, making this one of the most significant jumps in this year’s index.
The annual study assesses 147 countries based on individuals’ self-assessments of their lives. The data is collected from global surveys conducted by Gallup and analysed by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
Saudi Arabia attained a life evaluation score of 6.817 out of 10, based on average data between 2023 and 2025.
The ranking places the Kingdom ahead of several major economies, including the United States (23rd), Canada (25th) and the United Kingdom (29th).
Within the Arab world, Saudi Arabia ranks second, just behind the UAE at 21st place globally. The Kingdom’s rise to 22nd also comfortably places it ahead of several regional neighbours, with Kuwait positioned at 40th.
How happiness is measured
The report evaluates happiness based on economic and social indicators, including GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.
The latest World Happiness Report appears to reflect the progress Saudi Arabia has made over recent years, with the Kingdom rising in global rankings based on factors such as living standards, social support, health, freedom to make life choices, and public trust.
Over the past decade, reforms have broadened employment opportunities, enhanced infrastructure, and increased access to entertainment, culture, and public spaces. Many of these changes are part of Vision 2030, including initiatives such as the Quality of Life Programme, which seeks to improve urban living while expanding cultural and recreational options across the country.
Globally, Finland once again ranked as the happiest country, with Nordic nations continuing to lead the list.
Saudi Arabia’s rise to 22nd place marks one of the most notable improvements in this year’s report and reflects a steady upward trend in life satisfaction.
The complete list can be viewed here.
Images: Social / What’s On Archives
