Abu Dhabi DoH and ADPHC launch the mobile-enabled Active Ramadan Challenge

Ramadan in Abu Dhabi just got a lot more active with the Department of Health (DoH) and the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) kicking off the Active Ramadan Challenge, a fresh take on health and community wrapped into one. This isn't just about fasting and reflection — it's a call to get moving, together. Think: thousands of steps, daily motivation, and a bunch of rewards along the way.

As H.E. Dr. Rashid Al Suwaidi put it, "We introduced the Active Ramadan Challenge, aligning with the objectives of the Year of the Community, encouraging everyone to embrace walking as a daily habit and support one another in adopting a healthier lifestyle."

How does it work?

Simple as pie — well, a healthy pie. Here's the breakdown:

• It's a three-week challenge, with step goals that grow each week: Week 1 - 5,000, Week 2 - 8,000, and Week 3 - 10,000 steps a day
• To join, just download the Sahatna app
• Log in using your digital ID
• Activate the "Wellness" feature to start tracking your steps

Hit your daily target and voilà — you're in the running for some pretty slick prizes: think attraction tickets, shopping vouchers, flights, and more. It's fitness with a side of fun.

Why does it matter?

Here's the kicker: this challenge isn't just a nice-to-have. It's a nudge towards long-term change. With lifestyle diseases creeping up worldwide, Abu Dhabi's health authorities are flipping the script from reactive care to proactive wellness.

Dr. Al Suwaidi's words ring loud and clear: "We remain dedicated to achieving a successful transition from the traditional healthcare model to a more comprehensive approach that prioritises prevention and proactive well-being."

In other words, walking isn't just good for the waistline — it's good for the whole system. And when a community moves together, it thrives together.

The context

This all lands during the holy month of Ramadan — a time when people naturally reset, reflect, and reconnect. It's also a period when routines shift, often toward more sedentary patterns. The Active Ramadan Challenge flips that on its head.

ADPHC is rolling out events and activities across the Emirate, turning neighborhoods into walking hubs and gatherings into wellness boosts. They're not just telling people to move — they're making it easy, social, and worthwhile.

Want in? Just follow DoH and ADPHC's social channels or keep your Sahatna app handy for updates, schedules, and step logs. It's that easy.