Abu Dhabi Advances Health and Wellness Through New Strategy

Post by : Mara Rahim

Abu Dhabi has introduced its Healthy Living Strategy, aiming to enhance the wellness of both residents and citizens. Crafted by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, this strategy combines efforts from government, private sectors, and local communities to promote longer, healthier lives.

The initiative targets the prevention of non-communicable diseases, including obesity, diabetes, heart ailments, and cancer. By placing a strong emphasis on prevention, the strategy seeks to integrate healthy living into the societal fabric, laying out a multi-year plan to foster a healthier Abu Dhabi.

In its inaugural phase, this strategy will prioritize three key areas. First, it aims to boost physical activity by promoting active lifestyles and enhancing infrastructure and programs. Second, it focuses on enhancing diet and nutrition, ensuring access to healthy food options while fostering awareness around balanced eating. Lastly, the third pillar hones in on raising knowledge about health, including the critical roles of mental wellbeing and sleep.

Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, stated, “Health is determined long before we step foot in a clinic. It stems from our dietary choices, physical activity, and the environment in which we exist. We must define our social interactions and daily routines by eating well and being physically active. By leveraging collaboration and data-driven insights, we can safeguard individuals, strengthen families, and create resilient communities.”

A significant aim of the strategy is to foster behavior change. While personal accountability for health is encouraged, the initiative is also designed to facilitate healthier choices that are both attainable and sustainable. Utilizing digital intelligence, the plan targets high-risk demographics with specific programs and policies to maximize impact where it is needed the most.

Dr. Ahmed AlKhazraji, Executive Director of Healthy Living, remarked, “Our aim is to simplify healthy living for everyone in Abu Dhabi. Recognizing that health is not universal, the strategy leverages behavioral science to address the most pressing needs.”

The strategy also consolidates existing efforts across Abu Dhabi, amplifying their effects. Initiatives include constructing supportive infrastructure for physical activity, enhancing access to nutritious food, and running public awareness campaigns about healthy living.

More than 20 initiatives are set to roll out under this strategy within the next year, involving various government bodies and private stakeholders collaborating to promote a more active and healthier emirate. This approach aims for lasting changes, embedding prevention and wellness at the core of daily lives in Abu Dhabi.

With the Healthy Living Strategy, Abu Dhabi aspires to revolutionize its population's health, lessen disease prevalence, and enable residents to lead more enriched, productive lives.