National Program for Happiness and Wellbeing: How Employers in the UAE Can Integrate This into the Workplace

Supporting national priorities while building healthier, happier, and more productive teams.

In 2016, the UAE launched the National Program for Happiness and Wellbeing, a forward-looking initiative designed to embed happiness and wellbeing as key national priorities. The program reflects the UAE’s vision of creating a thriving society where individuals and communities flourish. But beyond public policy, employers play a crucial role in making this vision a reality.

With employees spending a significant portion of their lives at work, workplaces become vital spaces for wellbeing. For companies in the UAE and GCC, aligning with the national program is not only a matter of compliance or reputation but also a strategy to build healthier, more engaged and more productive teams.

Why It Matters for Employers

Research consistently shows that happier employees are more productive, loyal and innovative. According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace Report (2023), engaged employees drive 23% higher profitability and significantly reduce turnover. In the UAE context, supporting the national happiness agenda strengthens employer brands and demonstrates alignment with the country’s long-term vision for social and economic development (Gallup).

For employers, integrating happiness and wellbeing into workplace culture is not just about compliance - it’s about future-proofing business success.

Core Pillars of the National Program for Happiness and Wellbeing

The UAE Government outlines several pillars for the program (UAE Government):

1. Policy Alignment: ensuring national policies embed happiness as a priority.

2. Community Wellbeing: building supportive, cohesive communities.

3. Workplace Wellbeing: promoting healthier, more productive working environments.

4. Lifestyle Choices: encouraging healthy habits in nutrition, activity, and mental health.

   
   

For companies, the third and fourth pillars are particularly relevant. By embedding workplace wellbeing and supporting healthier lifestyles, employers directly contribute to the UAE’s national goals.

How Employers Can Integrate the Program into the Workplace

1. Wellbeing Programs

Employers can introduce initiatives like mental health awareness workshops, resilience training and stress management sessions. According to the World Health Organization, every USD 1 invested in mental health support yields a USD 4 return in improved health and productivity (WHO).

2. Flexible Work Models

Hybrid schedules, remote options and family-friendly policies directly support employee happiness. In a region where family values are deeply rooted, these measures resonate strongly with cultural priorities.

3. Recognition & Purpose

Celebrating employee achievements and connecting teams to meaningful work fosters purpose and satisfaction. Recognition is linked to 31% lower turnover and higher engagement (Gallup).

4. Healthcare Access

Comprehensive health insurance remains a cornerstone of workplace wellbeing. Employers can support national goals by offering:

• Group medical insurance in the UAE

• Tele-health services (e.g., TruDoc 24x7)

• Preventive care coverage

5. Workplace Culture

An inclusive, respectful culture encourages collaboration and trust. Aligning with diversity and inclusivity also enhances employer brand appeal, particularly among younger workforces in the UAE.

Examples of Integration

Some UAE-based employers have already taken significant steps:

• Government entities have introduced happiness officers and wellbeing councils.

• Private companies have implemented Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), group health insurance with mental health benefits, and wellbeing days.

  
  

These initiatives are clear demonstrations of how business can align with the national program while also enhancing workplace culture.

The ROI of Happiness at Work

According to Deloitte, workplace wellbeing programs can reduce absenteeism by 25% and increase employee productivity by up to 11% (Deloitte Insights). For UAE employers, the message is clear: supporting the happiness agenda pays off, both socially and financially.

The Role of Partners Like GulfCare

Corporate health insurance providers such as GulfCare play a critical role in enabling this shift. With tailored healthcare packages, group medical insurance and access to tele-health platforms like TruDoc 24x7, GulfCare helps employers provide comprehensive support systems aligned with the UAE’s national priorities.

Conclusion

The UAE’s National Program for Happiness and Wellbeing is more than a government strategy; it’s a roadmap for businesses to build thriving, resilient workforces. By integrating its principles into workplace policies, employers not only support national goals but also unlock tangible benefits in performance, retention and culture.

For companies in the UAE, embedding happiness into the workplace is both a responsibility and a competitive advantage.