The Emirates ranked highly in the Positivity Index of Nations because of its focus on future generations.

The UAE has ranked 8th on an index that measures countries' positive effect on the world and their ability to prepare its young people for future challenges.

The Positivity Index of Nations is an annual global report published by the Positive Economy Institute since 2013.

This year, the UAE was included as a non-OECD country for the first time and outperformed 27 of the 34 OECD member countries listed, including the UK, US, France and Australia. Iceland came out on top with other Scandinavian countries also making the top 10. The UK just missed out, ranking 11th and no other Arab countries were listed among the 30 nations listed.

The index assesses countries on their positive effect regionally and globally and their efforts to anticipate future opportunities and challenges in vital sectors.

The UAE appears to have ranked highly because of its focus on empowering young people, building their capabilities and preparing them for the future.

The index tests countries through three main dimensions that are measured using 30 indicators.

The first dimension, "Educate and Finance Future Generations" tests positive finance, positive education and positive solidarity. The second dimension, "Preparing Adequate Infrastructure for Future Generations" tests positive resources and positive connections. While the third dimension "Building a Consensus for Future Generations" covers indicators of positive governance, positive dynamics, positive inclusion and positive participation.

Headed by French economist Jacques Attali, the Positive Economy Institute was established in 1998 with the aim of building a better world for future generations by encouraging international commitment to developing a sustainable economy.

Source: The National