Saudi Arabia ranked first among Arab countries and 21st globally in the World Happiness Report, issued by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Solutions Network, which focused on measuring the impact of the repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic on global happiness and quality of life.
The ranking reflects the success of Vision 2030, under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, in achieving the goals of improving the quality of life and highlights the pioneering and leadership role that the Kingdom enjoys regionally and globally, especially with regard to the happiness and well-being of society.
The latest report was based on measuring the effects of the pandemic on countries, in addition to assessing the response of states and official institutions to the health, economic and psychological repercussions.
The report points to a close link between the citizens’ trust in state institutions and how they faced the pandemic, as well as the extent of the happiness of societies.
The UN report measured the impact of the pandemic on the work environment, the nature of social relations, the mental health of individuals, confidence in government procedures and the ability of states to overcome the repercussions of the virus.
The report also relied on measuring happiness based on the factors of unemployment rates, social inequality and the feeling of loneliness.
Saudi Arabia’s ranking was particularly influenced by the indicators of GDP, social support, average life expectancy and freedom to make life decisions, in addition to generosity and confronting corruption.
