Abu Dhabi Launches Healthy Living Strategy to Boost Wellbeing

Abu Dhabi has launched its Healthy Living Strategy to improve the overall health and wellbeing of residents and citizens. Developed by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, the strategy uses a collaborative approach involving government, private sector, and communities to help people live longer and healthier lives.

The strategy focuses on preventing non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. It aims to make healthy living a part of everyday life by emphasizing prevention and wellbeing at the heart of society. This multi-year plan is designed to unite different sectors to build a healthier Abu Dhabi.

In its first phase, the strategy will focus on three main areas. The first is increasing physical activity by encouraging movement in daily life and promoting active lifestyles through better infrastructure and programs. The second is improving diet and nutrition, ensuring access to healthier food choices and promoting awareness of balanced eating. The third pillar strengthens knowledge and awareness about health, including mental wellbeing and sleep as important factors in overall health.

Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said, “Health begins long before we visit a clinic. It is shaped by what we eat, how we move, and the environment we live in. Moving more and eating well must define how we live, learn, and work. Through collaboration and data-driven insights, we can protect individuals, strengthen families, and build resilient communities.”

A key aim of the strategy is to drive behaviour change. While individuals are encouraged to take responsibility for their health, the strategy is designed to make healthier choices easier and more sustainable. By using digital intelligence, the plan identifies high-risk groups to deliver targeted programs and policies, ensuring maximum impact where it is most needed.

Dr. Ahmed AlKhazraji, Executive Director of Healthy Living, said, “Our goal is to make healthy living the easy choice for everyone in Abu Dhabi. Health is not one-size-fits-all, which is why the strategy focuses on behavioral science to address areas with the greatest need.”

The strategy also brings together existing initiatives across Abu Dhabi to accelerate their impact. These include creating supportive infrastructure for exercise, improving access to nutritious food, and promoting public awareness campaigns on healthy lifestyles.

Over 20 initiatives have been approved under the strategy for implementation over the next year. These initiatives involve multiple government entities and private sector partners working together to make the emirate healthier and more active. The plan is expected to create sustainable change and ensure that prevention and wellness are central to the way people live in Abu Dhabi.

Through the Healthy Living Strategy, Abu Dhabi aims to transform the health of its population, reduce the burden of disease, and empower residents and citizens to lead more fulfilling and productive lives.