Abu Dhabi's Physical Activity Rate Hits 60.3% in 2025

In a recent announcement, the Abu Dhabi Department of Community Development (DCD) and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) revealed significant findings from the fourth Abu Dhabi Sports and Physical Activity Survey. The results indicate a rising trend in physical activity within the emirate, underscoring successful initiatives aimed at promoting active lifestyles among its population.

Conducted in line with World Health Organization (WHO) standards, the 2025 survey attracted close to 31,000 participants, a notable increase from 21,000 in 2024 and 19,000 in 2023. This surge in participation illustrates the expanding collaboration with government entities, educational institutions, and community organizations across Abu Dhabi.

The findings reveal that physical activity participation surged to 60.3 percent in 2025, compared to 53.6 percent in the previous year. This upward trend highlights the emirate's commitment to fostering sports and a healthy lifestyle.

Moreover, engagement among UAE Nationals has also improved, with participation rates climbing to 54.3 percent from 45.6 percent in 2024, reflecting increased awareness around health and fitness.

Among the youth, the percentage of children and adolescents achieving the WHO-recommended 60 minutes of daily activity rose from 12.5 percent to 14.8 percent. While progress remains necessary, these figures indicate a shift towards healthier lifestyle choices among the younger populace.

Encouraging results were also observed among People of Determination (PoD), with weekly activity levels reaching 46.5 percent, up from 43.7 percent in the prior year. This improvement signifies ongoing efforts to provide equitable sports opportunities for all community members.

The survey indicated a growing satisfaction with sports services in Abu Dhabi, with approval ratings for events organized by ADSC rising to 83 percent, up from 78 percent in 2024.

Satisfaction with sports facilities and infrastructure also saw an increase to 78 percent in 2025, compared to 76 percent in the 2024 survey. These results underscore the ongoing enhancement of community sports amenities across the emirate.

Furthermore, awareness of local sports events improved, climbing from 21 percent in 2024 to 25 percent in 2025, while recognition of major international sporting events hosted in Abu Dhabi increased from 22 percent to 24 percent.

His Excellency Mohamed Helal Al Balooshi, Executive Director of Community Engagement and Empowerment at DCD, emphasized that these results reflect ongoing efforts to promote sports as an integral part of daily life. He attributed this progress to robust partnerships among government bodies, private organizations, and community institutions.

Al Balooshi remarked that Abu Dhabi continues to enhance its sports infrastructure, including pathways for walking and cycling, alongside tailored programs for diverse age groups and People of Determination.

He reiterated the DCD's dedication to formulating comprehensive policies and innovative initiatives aimed at advancing community well-being and promoting healthy living.

As per Al Balooshi, a scientific approach is employed to assess community needs and gauge the effectiveness of initiatives, ensuring alignment with Abu Dhabi’s vision for development.

Hamda Al Mansoori, Executive Director of Strategic Affairs at ADSC, stated that the latest survey cycle reflects the success of community engagement in fostering active lifestyles. This data provides vital indicators that help shape more effective sports programs that cater to all demographics.

She added that comprehensive insights from the survey will inform the development of new strategies aimed at increasing sports participation and enhancing public health across Abu Dhabi.

The findings from the 2025 Sports and Physical Activity Survey illuminate Abu Dhabi's ongoing commitment to nurturing a healthier, more active community. With a focus on inclusive programs and infrastructure improvements, the emirate continues to advance towards establishing a thriving culture of sports and wellness for all.