Abu Dhabi launches 25 health initiatives to tackle obesity and diabetes

Abu Dhabi is rolling out 25 health initiatives designed to change how people live, eat, and exercise across the emirate. The Healthy Living programme, backed by the government, targets the rising rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cancer that affect thousands of residents.

The strategy moves away from treating illness after it strikes. Instead, it focuses on preventing disease before it starts. Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan endorsed the plan, which brings together government departments, private companies, and communities.

The initiatives span five areas: better infrastructure, targeted programmes, evidence-based policies, health education, and improved access to medical care. The goal is simple - remove barriers that stop people from making healthy choices every day.

How does it work?

The programme starts with three main areas: increasing physical activity, improving nutrition, and boosting health knowledge. Sleep and mental health initiatives will follow later this year.

Fourteen government departments are implementing the initiatives. They include the Department of Health, the Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, and the Department of Education and Knowledge. Private sector partners also play a role.

One key initiative is Degayeg, a community programme that helps people of all ages add physical activity to their daily routines. Since October 2025, it has hosted over 500 events across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, with more than 7,700 participants.

Another is Nutri-Mark, a food labeling system that grades packaged products from A to E based on nutritional value. Shoppers can scan labels with the TAMM app to see grades instantly. A new advertising policy also limits how unhealthy food and drinks can be promoted in public spaces.

Why does it matter?

Non-communicable diseases are rising rapidly in the UAE. These conditions - including diabetes, heart disease, and obesity - often develop over years through poor diet, lack of exercise, and other lifestyle factors.

Traditional healthcare systems treat these diseases after they appear. This approach is expensive and often comes too late to prevent serious complications. The Healthy Living programme flips this model by stopping disease before it starts.

'By treating wellbeing as core infrastructure, we are changing how health is created in Abu Dhabi,' said Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health. The programme aims to make healthy choices automatic rather than difficult.

Early results show promise. The Festival of Health in December 2025 attracted almost 50,000 participants, with 37% being children. This suggests families are engaging with health initiatives across age groups.

The context

Abu Dhabi's approach reflects a global shift toward preventive healthcare. Countries worldwide are grappling with rising rates of lifestyle-related diseases that strain healthcare systems and reduce quality of life.

The emirate has advantages that make this programme possible. Strong government coordination allows multiple departments to work together. Significant resources can be directed toward long-term health goals rather than just treating existing illness.

'We want to make it easier for everyone to eat well, move more and feel supported in managing their health, every day,' said Dr Ahmed AlKhazraji, Executive Director of Healthy Living. The programme uses data and community feedback to design initiatives that actually work for residents.

The scale of coordination is unusual. Getting 14 government departments plus private partners to work toward the same health goals requires significant political will and administrative skill. Success could provide a model for other countries facing similar health challenges.