Through peace you can find happiness in the UAE

From its 20th position, the UAE has grand plans — aided by a scientific strategy — to make it to the top five happiest countries by 2021. Supported by influential thought leaders and a network of partners from various facets of life, the country is working to bring about a cultural shift where a state of happiness remains constant, where it becomes habit, a lifestyle. The Happiness Index, which measures an individual’s assessment of standard of living and satisfaction, will be the indicator. Recognising that big data insights are not limited to the technology sector, the country has installed customer satisfaction and sentiment analysis tools. Decision makers are thus able to enhance residents’ happiness in realtime, supported by data provided by such tools.

A positive attitude results in constructive thinking where a person becomes active in solving problems; creative thinking where a person innovates and finds new ways of doing things; and motivation which results in the energy and zest to accomplish goals. Without such energy and optimism, societies cannot achieve sustainable development and growth. The leadership believes it is a stakeholder, a partner in people’s lives. There is a shared responsibility to create an environment where people can achieve their dreams and ambitions, and where they are empowered. The UAE has succeeded in becoming a happy nation because it is secure, prosperous and ambitious. Suffice to say it will not be content with its achievements. It will strive for excellence, through which it will gain knowledge and expand its influence across the world and transform people’s lives. A selfish streak is not in its genetic code. People from over 200 nationalities who reside in the country are living testaments in this pursuit. As individuals, this pursuit of the country should make us reflect and reconcile. It would mean sinking our differences and learning to smile at life and take what it throws at us in our stride. The UAE gives us the perfect stage to find peace, through which we can find happiness. Let’s reach out and grab the opportunity.