Dubai is actively championing a healthier future for its residents through a multi-faceted approach. From promoting physical activity and healthy eating to enhancing mental well-being and ensuring accessible healthcare, the emirate is dedicated to fostering a culture of wellness. These initiatives aim to combat lifestyle diseases and improve the overall quality of life for everyone.
Promoting Physical Activity
Dubai is making significant strides in encouraging its residents to embrace physical activity. The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has launched initiatives like offering free gym access to government employees, supporting the Dubai Fitness Challenge 30X30. The "Community Steps" initiative, part of the Year of Sustainability, urges residents to walk more within their neighborhoods, promoting both physical health and sustainable living.
- Free gym access for government employees.
- Dubai Fitness Challenge 30X30.
- "Community Steps" initiative for neighborhood walking.
Enhancing Mental Well-being
Recognizing the importance of mental health, Dubai has introduced its Mental Wealth Strategy. This comprehensive plan includes a new AI-powered self-help app, expanded anti-burnout sessions for employees, and a significant increase in psychiatric beds. The strategy also focuses on training general practitioners to identify mental health red flags early.
- AI-powered self-help app for mental well-being.
- Anti-burnout sessions for employees.
- Increased psychiatric beds.
- GP training for early mental health detection.
Accessible Healthcare and Disease Prevention
Dubai is committed to ensuring accessible and timely medical care. Government hospitals’ emergency departments operate round-the-clock, and there’s a strong emphasis on not delaying medical care, especially for cardiac symptoms. Campaigns like the "Beat Diabetes Walk" and school programs for kids’ diabetes awareness highlight the focus on preventing lifestyle diseases, which are a growing concern in the UAE.
- 24/7 emergency services at government hospitals.
- Urgent advice against delaying medical care.
- Public awareness campaigns for diabetes and heart health.
Fostering a Culture of Wellness
The UAE leadership, including the President, has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a culture of healthy living. Dubai’s efforts extend to encouraging healthier school meals for over 300,000 students and promoting activities like yoga, which has gained significant popularity. These initiatives collectively aim to make Dubai a leading city for healthy lifestyles globally.
- Leadership commitment to healthy living.
- Healthier school meal programs.
- Promotion of wellness activities like yoga.
Sources
- UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention offers free gym access to all government employees, Gulf News.
- Do not delay medical care or lifestyle changes, UAE doctors urge on World Heart Day, Gulf News.
- Why UAE is pushing residents to walk with family, friends within neighbourhoods, Gulf News.
- New mental health self-help app in Dubai will use AI to benefit users, Gulf News.
- Government hospitals’ emergency departments will work round-the-clock, Gulf News.