Abu Dhabi partners with Novo Nordisk on personalized weight management program

The Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre has teamed up with Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk to roll out a personalized weight management program across the emirate. The partnership puts family doctors at the center of early detection and intervention efforts.

The collaboration comes as Abu Dhabi shifts toward prevention-focused healthcare models. The program targets individuals before weight issues become serious health problems, with personalized care plans based on each person's specific needs and risk factors.

How will it work?

The program puts family physicians and healthcare professionals in the driver's seat as the first point of contact with patients. These doctors will handle early identification, provide guidance, and follow up with individuals through approved care pathways.

Each participant gets a personalized care plan based on a comprehensive assessment that looks at:

• Health indicators and medical history
• Lifestyle factors and daily habits
• Individual risk factors
• Specific health needs and goals

The program runs across government and private clinics and hospital groups in Abu Dhabi. It combines health education, behavioral support, medical follow-up, and therapeutic interventions when needed.

Why does it matter?

Weight management has become a growing concern in the UAE, where lifestyle changes have led to higher obesity rates. The program addresses this through early intervention rather than waiting for serious health complications to develop.

"The personalized weight management program is a key pillar of our efforts to promote community health through prevention, early detection and intervention," said Dr. Rashed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre.

The partnership will deliver awareness and educational campaigns targeting different community segments. These efforts aim to educate people about obesity's impact on health and quality of life, while highlighting available treatment pathways.

The context

This collaboration fits into Abu Dhabi's broader healthcare strategy focused on prevention rather than treatment. The emirate has been moving toward integrated, community-responsive healthcare models that put patients at the center of care.

Novo Nordisk brings expertise in weight-related conditions and will support capacity-building efforts for healthcare professionals. The company will also participate in awareness initiatives and help strengthen doctors' roles in patient education.

Dr. Cecilia Radu, General Manager of Novo Nordisk UAE, said the collaboration "reflects a science-based, preventive, and collaborative vision" that helps healthcare professionals empower patients to make informed health decisions.

The partnership also includes knowledge sharing and best practices exchange, supporting the development of weight management health initiatives. This approach aims to keep the program aligned with the latest scientific standards while ensuring long-term sustainability.