Dubai residents are happier, more connected and increasingly proud to call the emirate home, according to the results of the eighth Social Survey (2024–2025) released by the Community Development Authority (CDA).
The survey, a key national reference for social policy in Dubai, measures indicators across seven pillars including quality of life, family cohesion, social inclusion and digital life. Its findings paint a compelling picture of a city where well-being is trending upward across nearly every dimension.
Happiness scores averaged 8.6 out of 10, with overall life satisfaction reaching 8.72. Around 95% of residents identified Dubai as their preferred place to live, citing safety and religious freedom as primary reasons. Pride among UAE residents in Dubai stood at 96.4%, reflecting the strength of the emirate's inclusive social model.
Family ties remain strong, with the Family Bond Index reaching 95.3% — a result CDA Director-General Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid attributed to sustained efforts aligned with the Year of the Family.
"Dubai continues to progress steadily towards its development goals, placing people and families at the centre of its priorities,"
she said.
Social participation is also on the rise. Volunteerism rates climbed from 8.4% to 13.2%, while attendance at Community Majalis grew 47% between 2019 and 2024. Over 90% of People of Determination reported feeling integrated into Dubai society.
On the digital front, 98.6% of residents reported internet access at home, underscoring the emirate's advanced connectivity infrastructure.
The survey this cycle introduced enhanced statistical tools and an interactive dashboard to improve transparency and support evidence-based policymaking, keeping findings closely tied to global competitiveness benchmarks.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
