A recent global study has reignited the debate on money and happiness, revealing that income might play a larger role in life satisfaction than previously thought. Wellness experts in the UAE agree, noting that “having control over life decisions can boost overall happiness.”
Research from Wharton shows that happiness continues to grow with income, even beyond the $500,000 annual mark (around Dh2 million) once considered the “satisfaction ceiling.”
According to researcher Matthew Killingsworth, if there’s a limit where money stops influencing happiness, it’s likely higher than assumed.
Killingsworth’s study, which included over 33,000 U.S. adults, compared their satisfaction and income with wealthy groups from previous studies, like global millionaires and members of the Forbes 400. Wealthier individuals consistently reported higher happiness, suggesting that if there’s a point where money no longer adds to happiness, it’s far above what was previously believed.
The study doesn’t confirm that money directly causes happiness but supports the strong link between income and well-being. Killingsworth noted, “The connection between money and happiness continues to grow, even at very high income levels. The impact is significant.”
Wealth and Wellbeing
UAE wellness experts say this study challenges the idea of a “satisfaction ceiling” and opens up fresh discussions on how wealth affects wellbeing.
Bushra Khan, an emotional wellbeing coach at Wellth, said, “The link between wealth and happiness seems deeper than we thought. More money allows greater choices — how people spend time, hobbies, or avoiding stress. This sense of life control can increase satisfaction.”
Experts explained that higher incomes allow for enriching experiences like travel, learning, and leisure, creating joyful moments and lasting memories.
Khan added, “Wealth provides a safety net, healthcare, emergency savings, and peace of mind about the future, all reducing anxiety. For some, financial success brings a sense of achievement and social validation, which boosts self-esteem and personal fulfillment.”
Happiness is Complex
While happiness often rises with income, money alone doesn’t guarantee lasting happiness. Life satisfaction is complex, with limits to what wealth alone can achieve.
Shereen Abraham, a wellbeing consultant at Inner Voice Consultancy, said the link between money and happiness is layered. She stated that while financial gains bring joy, it’s often short-lived. “Studies show people are happy with a bonus or raise, but that joy is temporary and fades over time.”
Lasting happiness, she explained, comes from having control and shaping one’s life, which wealth can support. “Higher income can provide security and access to opportunities, but it’s just one factor in overall wellbeing.”
Control Over Time Matters
Dr. Ajay Kumar from Prime Medical Centre – Deira shared that it’s the quality of life money enables that affects happiness most. “Money, used wisely, can enhance happiness through relationships, meaningful spending on others, and more autonomy in one’s time.”
However, Dr. Kumar emphasized that happiness is complex. “Genetics, health, relationships, leisure, and purpose likely have more impact on well-being than money alone.”
In the end, while the study supports a link between money and happiness, UAE experts agree that wealth is just one piece in the larger puzzle of a fulfilling life.
