UAE health survey reveals progress and persistent challenges in obesity and nutrition

The latest National Health and Nutrition Survey for 2024–2025 has revealed key health trends in the UAE. While obesity rates remain high, some improvements in lifestyle habits have emerged over the past decade. The findings also highlight persistent challenges in diet, physical activity, and vitamin deficiencies across all age groups.

The survey shows that 22.4% of adults in the UAE currently live with obesity. This marks a 14.8% decline over the last 15 years, suggesting gradual progress. However, childhood obesity has surged from 2.2% in children under five to 16.1% in those aged 6–17.

High cholesterol affects 54.2% of adults, while 25.9% struggle with high blood pressure. Nearly 60% of adults fail to meet recommended physical activity levels, though the data records an 11.7% rise in exercise over the past seven years. Smoking rates have also dropped by 2.4% in the same period.

Nutritional concerns remain significant, with 96.2% of adults consuming more sodium than advised. Vitamin D deficiency is widespread, affecting 49.3% of adults and nearly 70% of children. On a positive note, 99.6% of pregnant women attend at least one prenatal visit, reflecting strong maternal healthcare engagement.

The UAE's trends mirror broader regional shifts. Over the last 15 years, neighbouring Gulf states have seen obesity rates climb from 30–35% to 35–45% due to increased consumption of processed foods and sugars. Physical activity levels stay low across the region, averaging under 5,000 steps per day. While initiatives like Saudi Vision 2030 and Qatar's 2022 FIFA programmes have had limited impact, the UAE has achieved slightly better results, including a 10% rise in gym memberships, partly driven by Dubai's fitness infrastructure.

The Ministry of Health and Prevention will use these findings to update its public health strategies. New programmes will target diet, exercise, and vitamin deficiencies to address the remaining challenges. The data provides a clearer picture of both progress and areas needing further action.