People exercising in modern Dubai

Dubai Champions Healthy Living and Well-being with Comprehensive Initiatives

Lifestyle

Dubai is making significant strides in promoting a healthy lifestyle and well-being among its residents through a series of comprehensive initiatives. These efforts encompass physical health, with a strong focus on combating diabetes and encouraging active living, as well as mental well-being, through innovative frameworks and accessible support systems. The emirate’s commitment aims to enhance the quality of life and establish Dubai as a global leader in health and wellness.

Dubai’s Proactive Health Agenda

Dubai’s leadership has consistently emphasized the importance of public health. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has called for upgrading healthcare services and ensuring access for all citizens. This commitment is evident in various programs:

  • National Regular Medical Checkups: A program for all citizens to ensure early detection and prevention.
  • Mobile Healthcare Services: Delivering medical care to remote areas, particularly for senior citizens.
  • Disease Prevention Programs: Initiatives to combat chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension.

Combating Diabetes Through Community Engagement

Diabetes remains a significant health challenge in the UAE, with a higher prevalence among Emiratis. Dubai has actively addressed this through large-scale community events and awareness campaigns.

  • The 15th annual Beat Diabetes Walk at Za’abeel Park saw over 16,500 participants, including 3,500 children, highlighting the growing concern of pediatric diabetes. This event, part of the ‘Forward Society’ pillar of the "We the UAE 2031 Vision," promotes early detection, prevention, and healthy lifestyle choices.
  • Collaborations with organizations like GEMS Education for the Superkidz Writing Competition encourage healthy living themes among students.
  • Free health services, including blood glucose testing and nutritional consultations, are provided at such events.

Advancing Mental Well-being with the Mental Wealth Framework

Recognizing mental health as a crucial component of overall well-being, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) launched the comprehensive Mental Wealth Framework in July 2024. This initiative aligns with the Dubai Social Agenda 33, aiming to make Dubai the world’s best destination for living and working.

Key initiatives under this framework include:

  • AI-Powered Self-Help App: An upcoming app designed to enhance mental well-being through AI-driven strategies, tips, and techniques for mental resilience. It is not a diagnostic tool but a self-care enhancement tool.
  • GP Training for Early Detection: 125 general practitioners have been trained to identify mental health red flags during routine consultations, with more training planned.
  • Anti-Burnout Sessions: Awareness sessions for employees in both public and private sectors to manage work-related stress and promote emotional resilience.
  • Increased Psychiatric Beds: Plans to double the number of psychiatric beds in government and private hospitals by the end of 2025.
  • Stigma Reduction: Shifting terminology to "mental wealth" to promote a positive, holistic view of psychological well-being and reduce stigma.

Promoting Healthy Lifestyles from a Young Age

Efforts to instill healthy habits begin early in Dubai. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum led the ‘Let’s Walk’ march as part of the ‘Healthy Children 2021’ campaign, emphasizing children’s health as a government priority. This campaign aims to reduce childhood obesity to 12% by 2021 through community engagement and physical activities.

Dubai’s holistic approach to health, encompassing physical activity, disease prevention, and mental well-being, underscores its commitment to fostering a resilient and thriving community for all residents.

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