DoubleTree by Hilton, one of Hilton‘s (NYSE: HLT) 13 market-leading brands, has revealed the power of a simple, kind gesture in a new report and survey published in the UAE today. In response to the survey results, the upscale hotel brand has unveiled plans to celebrate World Kindness Day by deploying “Kindness Cabs” in Dubai on 13 November 2016 to spread the goodwill.

The survey*, commissioned by DoubleTree by Hilton, highlighted that 89 per cent of UAE residents believe there should be more kindness in the world and 91 per cent testified to the goodwill ripple effect, claiming that being on the receiving end of a thoughtful gesture moved them to be kinder to others.

Of those surveyed, 77 per cent believe that acts of kindness improve relationships, while 70 per cent say a kinder workplace makes them more productive. Seventy-four per cent of respondents said receiving or performing an act of kindness makes them more content, and 79 per cent said doing good deeds gives them a more positive outlook on life.

The impact of even small acts of kindness are so significant that 85 per cent said a smile or a kind word from a stranger is the ultimate mood-boosters. Most UAE residents are happy to give as well as receive, with 86 per cent of men and 85 per cent of women willing to charm a stranger with a simple smile.

“Our research in the UAE points to a desire for people to create and pass on kindness,” explains Dianna Vaughan, senior vice president and global head, DoubleTree by Hilton. “At our 475 DoubleTree by Hilton hotels, we believe that kindness  – a warm welcome, a friendly smile – makes all the difference when it comes to travel and stays with our guests long after they check out.”

In partnership with well-being experts The School of Life, DoubleTree by Hilton has today published the UAE’s first report of its kind – “Mastering the Art of Kindness” – looking into the value of kindness to individuals and society at large.

Psychotherapist and The School of Life faculty member Lucy Beresford said, “Kindness is a powerful force for change. Kindness travels in so many different ways, and moments of kindness – no matter how small – bring us together, creating a strong connection that transcends the pressures of everyday life. Scientific research has proven that both giving and receiving kindness improves our happiness, physical health and general well-being. Ultimately, even the smallest acts of kindness can have wide-reaching effects, as our good deeds are paid forward by others.”

DoubleTree by Hilton will be spreading warmth and kindness throughout Dubai on World Kindness Day, 13 November 2016, by partnering with app-based car booking service Careem. Anyone who books a car with Careem on World Kindness Day has the chance of being picked up in a “Kindness Cab”. Lucky customers greeted by the Kindness Cab will enjoy a complimentary taxi ride and a “Kindness Kit” of gifts. In an extra element of surprise, a select number of the “Kindness Kits” will contain complimentary stays at any DoubleTree by Hilton around the world.

To make a reservation at a DoubleTree by Hilton worldwide, travelers may visit doubletree.com. Media may access additional information on DoubleTree by Hilton’s World Kindness Day celebrations in UAE at news.doubletree.com.