Happiness: a feeling much easier achieved en masse

Just because someone says you should be happy, doesn't mean that's what's going to happen, conference told. (Shutterstock/File)
Updated 11 February 2019
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Happiness: a feeling much easier achieved en masse

  • 'Happiness is better achieved as a collective'
  • The pursuit of happiness is better with others

DUBAI: Happiness is not something that can be created by an individual simply because they are told, but a feeling that results from interaction, an academic told the World Government Summit on Monday.

Referring to the US bill of rights that tells every American that they have the right to the pursuit of happiness, Professor of applied mathematics at Cornell University, Steven Strogatz said this was not necessarily a choice, individuals could make.

In a speech about the science of synchronized randomness, he concluded that complex systems in society were created by a number of different parts reacting in different ways.

He said in America there was a perception that happiness was something “each person should pursue on their own.”

“But happiness is very much a social phenomenon that people’s wellbeing and happiness that relies on their interactions with their fellow citizens,” Strogatz said.

“We can help each other be healthier and happier collectively – it’s not just up to us individually.”


Where We Are Going Today: Yawmiyat in Riyadh

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Updated 23 February 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Yawmiyat in Riyadh

  • When moving on to the main dishes, Yawmiyat takes you on a journey that reflects the warmth of the authentic Levantine table

The first thing you notice when experiencing Yawmiyat is the feeling of going back to the roots, but with a touch of quiet luxury.

In the midst of Riyadh’s fast-paced bustle, this kitchen offers an experience that feels like a sanctuary for the senses, far from the usual commercial fast foods.

Our eyes are immediately drawn to the geometric precision of the presentation; the dishes here are not scooped randomly, but carefully arranged in a way that reminds us of miniature museum displays.

Warak enab or stuffed grape leaves, which is often served as a simple side dish, appears here as the essence of the experience. The compactly stacked pieces gleaming with virgin olive oil promise a taste that cleverly balances the acidity of lemon with the sweetness of the rich filling, reflecting hours of slow cooking.

When moving on to the main dishes, Yawmiyat takes you on a journey that reflects the warmth of the authentic Levantine table.

Here, the grills go beyond being traditional items; the kofta and lamb chops saturated with the aroma of charcoal grilling, characterized by exceptional tenderness and a rich flavor of special spices that melt in the mouth.

For lovers of complex flavors, the fattet makdous stands out as an artistic masterpiece presented as a symphony of harmonious textures, where the crunch of bread embraces the tenderness of eggplant and the freshness of yogurt, creating a melodic balance that evokes immediate nostalgia for intimate family gatherings.

What truly distinguishes this experience is that rare blend of authenticity and modernity; while the kitchen adheres to traditional recipes, modernity appears in the style of presentation and packaging that makes each order a “gift” worthy of presenting.

Behind this inspiring Saudi brand stands a deep belief that local cuisine is the richest and finest that can be offered to the world.

For more information, check their Instagram @yawmiyatbydalal.