UAE Obesity to Hit 95% by 2050

The number of individuals in the UAE experiencing obesity—both men and women—is expected to rise significantly over the next 25 years, according to a recent study.

The Lancet report predicts that obesity and overweight rates among adult males aged 25 and older in the UAE will grow from 84% in 2021 to 94% by 2050, making it one of the highest globally, alongside countries such as Kuwait. Similarly, the obesity and overweight prevalence among women in the UAE is expected to climb to 95% by 2050, ranking the UAE fourth internationally, following Egypt, Tonga, and Kuwait.

This trend extends beyond the UAE to other Gulf countries, including Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, where obesity rates among those aged 25 and older exceed 90%. Among younger UAE residents aged 15 to 24, the percentage of overweight and obese individuals is projected to rise from 62% in 2021 to 81% by 2050. This alarming figure is also among the highest globally.

Medical professionals and health experts attribute these obesity levels to sedentary lifestyles, increased consumption of processed and junk foods, prolonged screen time, and insufficient physical activity. Dr. Jessica Kerr, co-lead author from Australia’s Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, emphasized that combating obesity must be prioritized in government policies.

Dr. Tasneem Mohamad Nour Abu El Foul, a specialist in general and laparoscopic surgery at Aster Hospital in Sharjah, discussed opportunities to address this growing problem.

She noted that shifting modern lifestyles, including heightened dependence on convenience foods and reduced physical activity, contribute significantly.

However, she emphasized the potential for individuals and communities to adopt healthier behaviors, such as eating balanced meals and leading active lifestyles, supported by innovative healthcare initiatives.

Shaista Asif, CEO of PureHealth, highlighted the UAE’s proactive and preventive healthcare approach, aimed at improving the population's overall health and longevity.

Speaking at Investopia 2025, she stated, “We’re creating a system that ensures health and longevity by providing access to quality healthcare.”

Ramadan emerges as an ideal time for UAE residents to start their weight loss journeys, according to Shaista.

Structured fasting during the holy month encourages discipline and mindful eating, aiding in weight loss and improving insulin sensitivity.

Studies have demonstrated beneficial outcomes, such as enhanced glycemic control and heightened weight loss.

Dr. Tasneem pointed out that the obesity surge in the UAE could prompt greater emphasis on preventative care and healthier living.

"Community wellness programs and accessible healthcare can effectively manage the impact of obesity on the healthcare system," she stated.

With continued investment in healthcare infrastructure, the UAE has the potential to introduce innovative methods to address and manage conditions related to obesity, benefiting public health and productivity.

Globally, the Lancet study noted that recent generations are gaining weight faster and experiencing obesity at younger ages, increasing the risk of complications like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular issues, and various cancers.

For instance, in high-income countries, 7% of men born in the 1960s were obese by age 25, a figure that rose to 16% for men born in the 1990s, with projections suggesting it will reach 25% for those born in 2015.

The study estimated that almost half of the global adult population—approximately 2.11 billion individuals aged 25 or older—lived with obesity or being overweight in 2021.

Among high-income countries, the United States reported the highest obesity rates, affecting 42% of males and 46% of females in 2021.

Worldwide obesity and overweight rates among adults are expected to increase from 43.4% in 2021 to 57.4% in 2050 for men and from 46.7% to 60.3% for women.

Asia and sub-Saharan Africa are projected to see the largest growth, driven by expanding populations.

Notably, sub-Saharan Africa alone is expected to have 522 million adults and over 200 million young individuals living with obesity or being overweight by 2050, according to IHME's Associate Professor Awoke Temesgen.

Source: khaleejtimes

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