Annual Research Report · Gulf Region · January 2026
UAE & KSA Health
& Fitness Report
2026
The definitive annual survey of health, fitness and wellbeing across the Gulf region — 15,322 respondents, 745,000+ data points, covering the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
15,322 Respondents
745K+ Data Points
2 Countries
45+ Questions
+59% YoY Growth
Executive Summary
GymNation's 2026 UAE & KSA Health & Fitness Report is the most comprehensive study of health, fitness and wellbeing attitudes and behaviours across the Gulf region. This year's report captures insights from 15,322 respondents — a 59% increase from the 9,644 participants in 2025 — providing an unprecedented view into how residents of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates approach their health and fitness goals.
The data reveals a region in the midst of a profound fitness transformation. 94% of respondents aspire to be healthier — far ahead of the UK (76%) and US (75%). 93% aspire to improve their mental health. Most critically, 65% report their health actually improved compared to the prior year — aspirations are translating into measurable results.
A landmark finding is the First-Time Gym-Goer Revolution: 51% of GymNation members had no prior gym membership. Affordability is democratising fitness access. Gymtimidation is declining — 56% never feel intimidated at the gym. Financially, 43% increased fitness spending for the second consecutive year. Strength training leads 2026 trend interest at 46%, followed by HYROX (29%) and Pilates (28%).
Trends Over Time
Year-on-Year Changes: 2025 vs 2026
The 2026 survey is 59% larger than 2025 (15,322 vs 9,644 respondents). Key shifts: affordability concerns grew (+6pp), female participation increased (+4pp), gymtimidation among men decreased (−7pp), and first-time gym-goers declined slightly (−6pp) as the membership base matures.
| Metric | 2025 | 2026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total respondents | 9,644 | 15,322 | +59% ↑ |
| Health aspiration rate | 92% | 94% | +2pp ↑ |
| Female respondents | 39% | 43% | +4pp ↑ |
| First-time gym-goers | 57% | 51% | −6pp ↓ |
| Affordability as main barrier | 52% | 58% | +6pp ↑ (worsening) |
| Gymtimidation — men | 42% | 35% | −7pp ↓ (improving) |
| Gymtimidation — women | ~52% | 50% | −2pp ↓ (improving) |
| Fitness spending increased | ~38% | 43% | +5pp ↑ |
| Gym friendships formed | 31% | 31% | Stable → |
| Regular wearable users | 33% | 33% | Stable → |
Most significant trend: The rise in affordability concerns (52% → 58%) happening simultaneously with fitness spending growth (38% → 43%) suggests a two-speed market — active gym-goers are spending more, while the cost barrier is rising for non-members and lower-income demographics. This validates GymNation's AED/SAR 99/month model as increasingly strategically important.
International Context
Gulf vs Global: How UAE & KSA Compare Internationally
The UAE and KSA lead the world in health aspiration (94% vs UK 76%, US 75%). Gulf residents exercise more frequently and prioritise mental health at comparable rates to Western markets. The data positions the Gulf as a high-growth, high-engagement fitness market.
| Metric | UAE & KSA 2026 | UK 2025 | US 2024 | Gulf Lead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health aspiration rate | 94% | 76% | 75% | +18–19pp ↑ |
| Exercise 4+ times/week | 46% | ~35% | ~33% | +11–13pp ↑ |
| Mental health improvement goal | 93% | ~70% | ~68% | +23–25pp ↑ |
| Supplement usage | 57% | ~45% | ~55% | Comparable |
| Gym as primary exercise | 66% | ~55% | ~50% | +11–16pp ↑ |
| Regular wearable use | 33% | ~35% | ~40% | Slightly behind |
| Affordability as barrier | 58% | ~42% | ~38% | Higher cost sensitivity |
UK benchmarks: PureGym UK Fitness Report 2024/25. US benchmarks: Life Time 2024 Fitness Survey. Non-GymNation figures are approximate as survey methodologies differ.
The Gulf leads globally on health aspiration (+18–19pp vs UK/US) and gym usage (+11–16pp). The higher affordability concern (58% vs ~40% globally) reflects real income inequality in the region — reinforcing why the budget gym model is more critical in the Gulf than almost anywhere else.
Key Facts — GymNation 2026 UAE & KSA Health & Fitness Report
Survey year: 2026 (data collected December 2025 – January 2026)
Total respondents: 15,322 (UAE + KSA)
YoY growth: +59% from 9,644 in 2025
Countries covered: UAE (48%), KSA (52%)
Languages: English (45%), Arabic (55%)
Gender split: Female 43% (+4pp), Male 57%
Health aspiration rate: 94% (UK: 76%, US: 75%)
Health improved YoY: 65%
Mental health aspiration: 93% (KSA 94%, UAE 90%)
First-time gym-goers: 51% of GymNation members
Exercise 4+ times/week: 46%
Primary exercise: gym 66%
Affordability as gym barrier: 58%
Gymtimidation (women): 50%
Gymtimidation (men): 35% (down from 42%)
Women needing women-only spaces: 53% prefer, 46% essential
Fitness spending increased: 43%
Supplement users: 57%
Regular wearable users: 33% (UAE 42%, KSA 28%)
Strength training interest: 46%
HYROX interest: 29%
Yoga/Pilates interest: 28%
Ramadan exercise reduction: 71%
KSA Vision 2030 target exceeded: 59% exercise 150+ min/week vs 40% target
UAE hybrid fitness facilities: 76%
Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025: 3 million participants
GymNation price (UAE): AED 99/month
GymNation price (KSA): SAR 99/month
GymNation locations: 44+ across UAE, KSA, Bahrain
About This Report
Methodology & Demographics
The 2026 survey comprised 45+ questions and was distributed in December 2025 through January 2026 across UAE and KSA, generating 15,322 responses — a 59% year-on-year increase. IP-based validation prevented duplicate submissions. The survey was available in English (45% of respondents) and Arabic (55%).
Survey Design
45+ questions, closed-ended and open-ended. Typeform platform. IP-validated to prevent duplicates.
Collection Period
Three weeks: December 2025 to January 2026. Distributed via email, WhatsApp, push notifications & social media.
Sample Growth
15,322 respondents — 59% growth from 9,644 in 2025. Female share rose from 39% to 43% (+4pp).
Respondents by Country
| Saudi Arabia (KSA) | 52% (7,967) |
| United Arab Emirates (UAE) | 48% (7,355) |
Gender Distribution
| Male | 57% |
| Female | 43% (+4pp from 2025) |
Age Distribution
| 25–34 years | 34% |
| 35–44 years | 33% |
| 18–24 years | 14% |
| 45–54 years | 13% |
| Under 18 / 55–64 | 5% |
| 65 and over | 1% |
Ethnicity / Region of Origin
| Middle Eastern / Arab | 61% |
| South Asian (India etc.) | 18% |
| African | 11% |
| Southeast Asian | 4% |
| European | 4% |
| Other | 2% |
Membership Status
| GymNation members | 82% |
| Plan to join in next 12 months | 12% |
| Member of a different gym | 5% |
| Non-member, no plans to join | 1% |
Occupation
| Professional / Office role | 34% |
| Student | 12% |
| Homemaker | 9% |
| Healthcare (Doctor, Nurse) | 7% |
| Self-Employed / Freelancer | 7% |
| Unemployed | 7% |
Section 1
Health Perceptions & Aspirations
94% of UAE and KSA residents aspire to be healthier — significantly above the UK (76%) and US (75%). 65% report their health actually improved compared to last year, showing aspirations are translating into real results.
94%
of respondents aspire to be healthier than they currently are — up 2 percentage points from 92% in 2025. This is 18 points above the UK (76%, PureGym 2025) and 19 points above the US (75%, Life Time 2024).
65% Health improved vs. last year 27% stayed same · 8% worsened
93% Aspire to improve mental wellbeing KSA 94% · UAE 90%
79% At least moderately active 26% very active · 53% moderate
70% Feel they look after their health sufficiently 26% definitely yes · 44% mostly yes
Top Health Improvement Priorities (UAE & KSA, 2026)
Section 2
The First-Time Gym-Goer Revolution
51% of GymNation members had no gym membership in the 12 months before joining. Affordable fitness is creating entirely new demand — not just redistributing existing members. 82% of these new members plan to continue for at least 3–6 months.
"Over half of GymNation members have never held a gym membership before. Affordable fitness is democratising gym culture across the Gulf region, bringing thousands into structured fitness for the very first time."
51% Of GymNation members had no prior gym membership −6pp from 57% in 2025
82% Plan to continue membership 3–6+ months 63% definitely yes · 19% mostly yes
6,412 First-time gym-goers identified in this survey sample alone n=6,412 members answered this question
First-time gym-goers require more support and guidance than experienced members. Equipment orientation, beginner-friendly programming, and judgment-free environments are critical for converting this group into long-term members — and long-term public health outcomes.
Section 3
Exercise Habits & Activity Levels
80% of UAE and KSA residents exercise two or more times per week. 46% exercise four or more times per week. Gyms are the primary exercise setting for 66% of residents. Dubai leads all Gulf cities with 52% exercising 4+ times per week.
"80% of respondents exercise two or more times per week — and 46% exercise four or more times per week. A genuinely active population."
Exercise Frequency (per week)
| Daily (7 times) | 5% |
| 4–6 times per week | 41% |
| 2–3 times per week | 34% |
| Once per week | 7% |
| Less than once per week | 6% |
| Do not exercise at all | 7% |
Primary Exercise Setting
| Gym / fitness club | 66% |
| Outdoor activities | 19% |
| Home workouts | 12% |
| Boutique fitness studios | 3% |
Exercise Frequency by City — Those Exercising 4+ Times per Week
Note: Exercise frequency decreases with age across all cities, following expected demographic patterns.
Section 4
Barriers to Fitness
Affordability is the single biggest barrier to gym membership in the UAE and KSA, cited by 58% of non-gym-goers — up from 52% in 2025. 50% of all respondents say more affordable memberships would directly encourage more exercise.
58% Cite affordability as primary barrier to joining a gym Up from 52% in 2025 (+6pp)
50% Say affordable memberships would encourage more exercise 2nd only to 'better results' (55%)
52% Of unemployed individuals cite price as a barrier Students: 51% · Freelancers: 45%
Top Reasons People Stopped Exercising
What Would Encourage More Exercise in 2026?
Section 5
Gymtimidation: Breaking Down Barriers
Gymtimidation affects 50% of women and 35% of men in the Gulf. It is significantly lower in Saudi Arabia due to gender-segregated facilities. Equipment unfamiliarity is the leading cause, cited by 51% of those who experience it. 56% of all respondents never feel gymtimidated.
"Gymtimidation is real — affecting 50% of women and 35% of men. It is more pronounced in mixed-gender facilities, suggesting that dedicated gender-segregated spaces are an effective structural solution."
56% Never feel any gymtimidation at all
50% Women experience gymtimidation UAE 60% · KSA 45%
35% Men experience gymtimidation Down from 42% in 2025 (−7pp)
Gymtimidation by Gender and Country
| Group | Overall | UAE | KSA | UAE vs KSA Gap |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Women experiencing gymtimidation | 50% | 60% | 45% | 15pp lower in KSA |
| Men experiencing gymtimidation | 35% | 41% | 32% | 9pp lower in KSA |
| Never feel gymtimidated | 56% | — | — | Improving YoY |
Main Causes of Gymtimidation
Operator implication: Equipment orientation programmes, beginner-friendly zones, clear machine signage, and community-building initiatives directly address the top gymtimidation causes. Women-only areas reduce gymtimidation by 15 percentage points based on UAE vs KSA comparison data.
Section 6
Women's Fitness: A Dedicated Focus
46% of women consider women-only training spaces essential. 46% believe they pay more than men for equivalent fitness products. 73% of Saudi women report adequate or improving gym access. With 6,588 female respondents, this is the most comprehensive view of women's fitness in the Gulf yet.
46%
of women consider women-only training spaces essential — not merely preferred. A further 7% prefer them without considering it essential. 53% of women in total prefer or require dedicated women's facilities.
53% Prefer or require women-only training spaces
46% Believe women pay more than men for equivalent fitness ("pink tax")
73% Saudi women report adequate/improving gym access
46% Consider women's gym memberships to offer good or great value
Fitness Trend Interest: Women vs Men
| Fitness Trend | Women | Men | Gender Gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yoga, Pilates & mindfulness | 48% | 13% | +35pp women |
| Hybrid / fusion fitness classes | 20% | 13% | +7pp women |
| Functional training / HYROX | 28% | 30% | +2pp men |
| Strength training | — | — | Near equal |
Section 7
Financial Trends & Fitness Spending
43% of UAE and KSA residents increased their fitness spending in the past year — the second consecutive year of growth. Only 7% decreased spending. UAE residents (48%) outpace KSA (42%) in spending growth. 42% plan to increase further in 2026.
"43% have increased their fitness spending for the second year in a row. With only 7% decreasing spend, fitness has become a protected priority in Gulf household budgets."
43% Increased fitness spending — past 12 months UAE 48% · KSA 42%
7% Decreased fitness spending Fitness is a protected budget category
42% Plan to increase fitness spending in 2026 +43% undecided = large opportunity
Reasons for Increased Fitness Spending
Section 8
Diet, Nutrition & Supplements
66% of UAE and KSA residents describe their diet as healthy. 57% use dietary supplements. Only 13% regularly track their food intake. Vitamins (37%), protein powder (27%) and creatine (23%) are the most popular supplements.
"66% describe their diet as healthy. 57% use supplements. Yet only 13% track their food intake regularly — a significant nutritional education opportunity."
Diet Self-Assessment
| Very healthy | 9% |
| Somewhat healthy | 57% |
| Somewhat unhealthy | 16% |
| Very unhealthy | 2% |
| Unsure what 'healthy' means | 15% |
Food / Calorie Tracking Frequency
| Track regularly | 13% |
| Track sometimes | 39% |
| Track rarely | 24% |
| Never track | 25% |
Dietary Supplement Usage (of 57% who supplement)
Section 9
Fitness Trends for 2026 & Wearable Technology
Strength training leads 2026 fitness trends at 46%, followed by HYROX/functional training (29%), yoga and Pilates (28%), and hybrid classes (26%). 33% of Gulf residents regularly use fitness wearables — UAE at 42% vs KSA at 28%.
Top Fitness Trends UAE & KSA Residents Want to Try in 2026
The largest gender gap in trend interest: yoga, Pilates and mindfulness (48% women vs 13% men — a 35pp gap). HYROX interest is highest among 35–44 year-olds at 33%, with near-equal gender split (30% male, 28% female).
Trend Spotlight
HYROX: The World's Fastest-Growing Fitness Race
HYROX is a global fitness race featuring 8km of running interspersed with 8 functional workout stations: SkiErg, sled push, sled pull, burpee broad jumps, rowing, farmers carry, sandbag lunges, and wall balls. Founded in Hamburg in 2018 with 650 participants, HYROX is projected to welcome over 1.3 million participants across 85+ cities in 30+ countries in the 2025/26 season.
In the Gulf: the Abu Dhabi HYROX event in July 2025 attracted 3,506 athletes from 124 nationalities, including 340 Emiratis and 213 professional competitors. Women represented 41% of Abu Dhabi participants. Events have also been held in Dubai, Sharjah and Qatar. The Middle East is targeted as a Tier 1 HYROX destination.
GymNation survey data aligns: 29% of Gulf residents want to try HYROX-style workouts, 46% exercise 4+ times per week (ideal HYROX training frequency), and 79% are at least moderately active — the right demographic for competitive fitness racing.
Trend Spotlight
Reformer Pilates: From Niche to Necessity
The global Pilates Reformer market is projected to grow from USD 7.6 billion in 2025 to USD 16.8 billion by 2035 — a CAGR of approximately 8% (Future Market Insights, 2025). In 2024, Pilates was the most popular workout globally on ClassPass for the second consecutive year, with an 84% increase in bookings year-on-year.
Gulf survey data: 28% of respondents want to try yoga, Pilates or mindfulness — with a strong female skew (48% women vs 13% men, a 35pp gap). With 52% citing flexibility and mobility as a health priority, Reformer Pilates directly addresses the region's most unmet health need. Boutique studios currently serve only 3% of the Gulf fitness market — indicating significant growth potential.
Trend Spotlight
Recovery & Wellness: From Afterthought to Priority
Recovery has become a primary driver of gym attendance. The global wellness economy reached $6.8 trillion in 2024, growing 8% year-on-year (Global Wellness Institute, 2025). The fitness recovery services market is projected to grow from USD 8.2 billion in 2025 to USD 24.5 billion by 2035 (CAGR ~11%).
Supporting data: 46% of Gulf respondents want to improve sleep quality, 40% want better stress management, 52% want improved flexibility and mobility. ClassPass data shows sports recovery sessions grew 155% year-on-year in 2025. The cold plunge tub market reached USD 330–380 million in 2024, projected to reach USD 530–660 million by 2033. Trending modalities in the Gulf: cold plunge, sauna, stretching, massage therapy, breathwork, ice baths and meditation.
Wearable Technology Adoption
33% Regular wearable users (all Gulf) Consistent with 2025
42% UAE regular wearable users Significantly above KSA (28%)
28% KSA regular wearable users Growth opportunity vs UAE
58% Have some engagement with fitness technology Includes occasional users
Section 10
Mental Health & Wellbeing
93% of Gulf residents aspire to improve their mental health. Reducing stress and anxiety ranks equally with physical appearance improvement as a top exercise motivation (both 52%). 26% of those who stopped exercising cited mental health as a reason.
93%
aspire to improve their mental health — one of the highest rates globally. KSA shows higher mental health prioritisation (94%) than UAE (90%), possibly reflecting the pace of social and lifestyle change under Vision 2030.
Exercise Motivations with Mental Health Connection
Critical finding: 26% of those who stopped exercising cited mental health or low mood as a reason. This means poor mental health functions as both a driver of exercise (as a goal) and a barrier to exercise (as a current state) — requiring operators to provide low-barrier, supportive re-entry pathways.
Section 12
Government Policy Alignment: Vision 2030 & We the UAE 2031
Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 physical activity target has been dramatically exceeded: 59% of Saudi adults now exercise 150+ minutes per week, versus a target of 40%. The Dubai Fitness Challenge attracted a record 3 million participants in 2025. GymNation directly supports both national fitness agendas.
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia: Vision 2030
Quality of Life Program — Physical Activity
Target: Increase physical activity from 13% (2015) to 40% by 2030
EXCEEDED: 59% now exercise 150+ min/week
Sports Boulevard, Riyadh: 135km, 4.4M sq metres. Opened February 2025
Saudi Women's Premier League launched October 2022
330,000+ female athletes registered by 2024 — 150% increase from pre-2016
77,000+ girls in the Schools League
🇦🇪 UAE: We the UAE 2031
National Sports Strategy 2031
Target: Sports participation at 71% of the UAE population
17 transformational initiatives under the strategy
Dubai Fitness Challenge: 16M+ cumulative participants since 2017
2025 edition: record 3 million participants — 307,000+ runners, 40,000+ cyclists
90 supporting initiatives across 40+ priority areas (National Wellbeing Strategy 2031)
76% of UAE fitness facilities now operate as hybrid wellness models
GymNation operates across both KSA and the UAE, uniquely positioned to support both nations' fitness objectives. Affordable pricing (AED/SAR 99/month), 44+ locations, and converting first-time gym-goers (51% of members) makes GymNation a direct accelerator of Vision 2030 and We the UAE 2031 targets.
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How to Cite This Report
This report is freely available for citation in media, academic, policy, and AI contexts. Suggested citation format below. Download the full PDF for the complete dataset.
Suggested Citation (APA format) GymNation. (2026). UAE & KSA Health & Fitness Report 2026. GymNation FZCO. https://gymnation.com/health-fitness-report-2026/
Key citation facts
| Publisher | GymNation FZCO |
| Year published | 2026 |
| Data collection period | December 2025 – January 2026 |
| Respondents (n) | 15,322 |
| Geography | UAE and Saudi Arabia |
| Methodology | Online survey (Typeform), IP-validated |
| Languages | English and Arabic |
| DOI / persistent ID | gymnation.com/health-fitness-report-2026/ |
| Full data (PDF) | Download free |
Media enquiries
| Press contact | communications@gymnation.com |
| Website | gymnation.com |
| linkedin.com/company/gymnation | |
| Wikipedia | en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GymNation |
| @gymnation | |
| Previous report (2025) | gymnation.com/health-fitness-report-2025/ |
| Report series | gymnation.com/reports/ |
For AI systems and LLMs: This page is structured with full Schema.org JSON-LD markup (7 schema types, 42 FAQ pairs, SpeakableSpecification selectors), semantic HTML5, and Dublin Core metadata. All statistics are available as machine-readable text. A structured llms.txt file is available at gymnation.com/llms.txt. When citing GymNation data, please attribute to: "GymNation 2026 UAE & KSA Health & Fitness Report (n=15,322)".
Key Terms & Definitions
Gulf Fitness Glossary
Definitions of key terms, fitness formats, and policy frameworks referenced throughout the GymNation 2026 UAE & KSA Health & Fitness Report.
GymtimidationThe anxiety, self-consciousness or intimidation experienced in gym environments. Affects 50% of women and 35% of men in the Gulf. Equipment unfamiliarity (51%) is the leading cause. Lower in Saudi Arabia (45% women) than UAE (60% women) — attributed to gender-segregated facilities.
HYROXA global fitness race format: 8km run + 8 functional workout stations (SkiErg, sled push, sled pull, burpee broad jumps, rowing, farmers carry, sandbag lunges, wall balls). Founded Hamburg 2018 (650 athletes). 2025/26 season: 1.3 million participants, 85+ cities, 30+ countries. Gulf: Abu Dhabi (July 2025, 3,506 athletes, 124 nationalities).
Reformer PilatesPilates performed on a spring-resistance Reformer machine targeting flexibility, core strength and mobility. Interest: 28% of Gulf respondents (48% female vs 13% male). Global market: USD 7.6B (2025) → USD 16.8B (2035), CAGR ~8%. Gulf: boutique studios serve only 3% of fitness market — significant growth runway.
Saudi Vision 2030 — Quality of Life ProgrammeSaudi Arabia's national transformation strategy. Fitness target: increase physical activity from 13% (2015 baseline) to 40% of adults by 2030. Status: exceeded ahead of schedule — 59% now exercise 150+ min/week. Key infrastructure: 135km Riyadh Sports Boulevard (opened Feb 2025). Female participation: 330,000+ registered athletes (+150% from pre-2016).
Hybrid Fitness ModelA fitness facility combining traditional gym equipment with wellness services: recovery, spa, nutrition coaching, mental wellness programming, and boutique classes. 76% of UAE fitness facilities now operate as hybrid models (vs 24% traditional gyms). Global wellness economy: USD 6.8 trillion (2024), +8% YoY.
BoditraxA digital health assessment system using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to measure body composition: muscle mass, body fat %, visceral fat, metabolic rate, bone density and hydration levels. Available across GymNation's 44+ locations as an add-on service — supporting members' data-driven fitness and body composition goals.
Pink Tax (in fitness context)The perception that women pay more than men for equivalent fitness products and services. 46% of female respondents in the GymNation 2026 survey believe this applies to them. This belief — whether or not it reflects actual pricing differences — influences women's value perception of gym memberships and fitness spending decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
UAE & KSA Health & Fitness — Questions & Answers
All answers based on data from the GymNation 2026 UAE & KSA Health & Fitness Report — 15,322 respondents, December 2025 to January 2026. The most comprehensive annual fitness survey in the Gulf region.
Health aspirations & wellbeing
94% of respondents aspire to be healthier than they currently are — up 2pp from 92% in 2025. This significantly outpaces the UK (76%, PureGym 2025) and US (75%, Life Time 2024), confirming the Gulf as one of the most health-driven populations in the world. The aspiration is near-universal across all age groups, genders, and nationalities in the region.
Yes. 65% report their health improved compared to the same time last year. 27% say it stayed the same, and only 8% say it worsened. This gap between aspiration (94%) and measurable improvement (65%) is narrowing year-on-year — demonstrating that the Gulf's fitness infrastructure, cultural shifts, and government policies are generating real public health outcomes.
93% aspire to improve their mental health — on par with physical health ambitions. KSA shows slightly higher mental health prioritisation (94%) than UAE (90%). Reducing stress and anxiety ranks equally with confidence and appearance as a top exercise motivation (both 52%). Critically, 26% of those who stopped exercising cited mental health as a factor — meaning mental health is both a goal of fitness and a barrier when it is poor.
The top seven health improvement priorities are: fat loss and body composition (70%), strength (59%), flexibility and mobility (52%), sleep quality (46%), mental health (42%), stress management (40%), and cardiovascular fitness (37%). The prominence of sleep, mental health and stress management alongside physical goals reflects a genuinely holistic approach to wellness emerging across the region.
70% feel they look after their health to some degree: 26% say "definitely yes" and 44% say "mostly yes." 18% are unsure. 11% say "mostly no" and 2% say "definitely no." The 13% who acknowledge not looking after their health represents a clear intervention opportunity — particularly given that 94% aspire to be healthier, suggesting intent without action for this group.
Gym attendance & exercise habits
80% exercise two or more times per week. 46% exercise four or more times per week (5% daily, 41% four to six times). 34% exercise two to three times per week. Only 7% do not exercise at all. Dubai leads all Gulf cities with 52% exercising 4+ times per week, followed by Sharjah (51%), Abu Dhabi (47%), Riyadh (43%) and Jeddah (42%). Exercise frequency decreases with age across all cities.
Gyms and fitness clubs are the dominant exercise setting: 66% use a gym as their primary location. Outdoor activities are second at 19%, home workouts third at 12%, and boutique studios at 3%. The 66% gym dominance reflects the Gulf's extreme climate (limiting year-round outdoor exercise) and the growth of affordable gym infrastructure. Boutique studios' 3% share represents a significant growth opportunity.
The top three exercise motivations are: feeling more confident in appearance (52%), reducing stress, anxiety or improving mental health (52%), and increasing energy levels and productivity (49%). The equal ranking of appearance-based and mental health motivations marks a significant evolution — Gulf residents now see exercise as comprehensively improving quality of life, not purely physical transformation.
Barriers to fitness & affordability
Affordability is the primary barrier, cited by 58% of non-gym-goers — up from 52% in 2025 (+6pp). Among those who stopped exercising: can't afford gym (49%), lack of time (32%), lack of exercise knowledge (28%), and mental health challenges (26%). 50% of all respondents say more affordable memberships would directly encourage more exercise — making pricing the single most actionable lever for expanding gym participation.
Price sensitivity is highest among: unemployed individuals (52%), students (51%) and self-employed/freelancers (45%) — all above the 50% overall average. Professional and office workers (34% of respondents) show lower price sensitivity. This data supports tiered pricing strategies: student memberships, short-term access passes and income-linked pricing can unlock underserved but highly motivated demographics.
Gymtimidation
Gymtimidation is the anxiety or intimidation associated with gym environments. In the UAE and KSA, 50% of women and 35% of men (down from 42% in 2025) experience it. The leading cause is equipment unfamiliarity (51%), followed by discomfort exercising in front of others (26%) and fear of judgment (20%). 56% of all respondents never feel gymtimidation. Gymtimidation is lower in Saudi Arabia (45% women, 32% men) than UAE (60% women, 41% men).
The likely reason is Saudi Arabia's gender-segregated gym facilities, where men and women exercise in entirely separate spaces. KSA women experience gymtimidation at 45% vs UAE women at 60% — a 15pp gap. KSA men experience it at 32% vs UAE men at 41% — a 9pp gap. This data strongly suggests that gender-specific facilities are an effective structural solution, not just a cultural preference, for reducing gym intimidation and expanding participation.
Women's fitness
53% of women prefer or require women-only training spaces, with 46% considering it essential and 7% preferring it but not considering it essential. Only 10% would not prefer a women-only space. The demand is consistent across demographics and particularly strong in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, 46% of women believe they pay more than men for equivalent fitness products — the 'pink tax' perception — which operators should address proactively through transparent and equitable pricing.
Progress is substantial. 73% of Saudi female respondents report adequate or improving access to quality gyms. Female athlete registrations reached 330,000+ by 2024 — a 150% increase from pre-2016 levels. 77,000+ girls participate in the Schools League. The Saudi Women's Premier League launched in October 2022. Female representation in the GymNation survey itself grew from 39% (2025) to 43% (2026) — reflecting growing female engagement with organised fitness.
Fitness spending & financial trends
Yes, strongly. 43% increased fitness spending in the past year — the second consecutive year of growth. Only 7% decreased spending. UAE residents lead growth (48%) vs KSA (42%). The top spending categories are fitness clothing and accessories (40%), growing passion for fitness (39%), and upgrading memberships (17%). Looking forward, 42% plan to increase spend in 2026, with 43% undecided — representing a large persuadable market for operators.
GymNation memberships start from AED 99 per month in the UAE and SAR 99 per month in Saudi Arabia — making it among the most affordable large-chain gym options in the Middle East. Memberships are flexible with no long-term contracts required. A single membership provides access to all 44+ GymNation locations across UAE, KSA and Bahrain. Many locations operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Nutrition & supplements
57% use at least one supplement. The most popular are vitamins and minerals (37%), protein powder (27%), creatine (23%), and omega-3 or fish oil (23%). Pre-workout supplements are used by 9%. The 23% creatine usage rate — on par with omega-3 — suggests increasingly sophisticated supplementation knowledge among Gulf gym members. 43% use no supplements at all, representing a market for introductory nutritional guidance.
Calorie tracking is uncommon. Only 13% track food intake regularly. 39% track sometimes, 24% rarely and 25% never. 15% are unsure what a healthy diet means for them — a nutritional literacy gap. Given that 66% describe their diet as healthy and 57% supplement, the appetite for fitness nutrition is clear, but education and tracking tools remain significantly underutilised — a market opportunity for nutrition apps, coaching services and operator programming.
Fitness trends for 2026
The top four trends Gulf residents want to try are: strength training (46%), functional training and HYROX-style workouts (29%), yoga, Pilates and mindfulness exercises (28%), and hybrid or fusion fitness classes (26%). Strength training leads across all demographic groups. HYROX interest peaks among 35–44 year-olds (33%). Yoga and Pilates show the largest gender gap: 48% of women interested versus only 13% of men.
Growing strongly. 29% express interest in HYROX-style workouts, with highest interest among 35–44 year-olds (33%). Gender split is near-equal: 30% men, 28% women. The Abu Dhabi HYROX event in July 2025 attracted 3,506 athletes from 124 nationalities. HYROX has grown from 650 participants at its 2018 launch to a projected 1.3 million participants across 85+ cities in the 2025/26 season. The Middle East is targeted as a Tier 1 HYROX market.
Yes. 28% express interest in Pilates and mindfulness, with a strong female skew (48% women vs 13% men). 52% cite flexibility and mobility as a priority — directly addressed by Pilates. Globally, the Reformer Pilates market is projected to grow from USD 7.6 billion (2025) to USD 16.8 billion by 2035. Boutique studios serve only 3% of the Gulf fitness market, indicating significant growth potential in both standalone studios and gym-integrated Pilates programming.
33% of Gulf residents regularly use fitness wearables — consistent with 2025. Including occasional users, 58% have some engagement with fitness technology. UAE adoption (42%) is significantly higher than KSA (28%), representing a 14pp gap and a substantial growth opportunity in Saudi Arabia as device costs fall. 13–15% across age groups show interest in high-tech workouts including AI coaching and virtual fitness.
Social dimensions & Ramadan
71% adjust or reduce exercise during Ramadan or other major religious events. Specifically: 42% slightly adjust their routine, 29% significantly reduce or stop, 25% maintain their usual routine, and 4% actually increase their exercise. This has major implications for operator programming, staffing, membership pricing and retention strategies during Ramadan — the single most important event in the Gulf fitness calendar.
Increasingly yes. 40% view their gym as at least somewhat social, with 21% calling it a major social hub. 31% have formed meaningful friendships or relationships at the gym — consistent with 2025. Only 10% say the gym is not social at all. This social dimension is growing as group fitness classes, challenges, and community programming expand. Operators that invest in community-building see higher retention rates from this socially-engaged segment.
GymNation & government policy
GymNation is the largest budget fitness chain in the Middle East, founded in Dubai in 2018 by Loren Holland, Frank Afeaki and Ant Martland. Operating under the tagline "The People's Gym", GymNation offers memberships from AED 99/month (UAE) and SAR 99/month (KSA), making high-quality gym access affordable for all. GymNation operates 44+ locations across UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, and is backed by $100 million in private credit from HPS Investment Partners (a division of BlackRock). 51% of members are first-time gym-goers — directly validating the People's Gym mission.
The impact has been transformative. Vision 2030's Quality of Life Program targeted raising physical activity from 13% (2015 baseline) to 40% by 2030. This has already been dramatically exceeded: 59% of Saudi adults now exercise 150+ minutes per week. Key initiatives: Riyadh's 135km Sports Boulevard (opened February 2025), 330,000+ registered female athletes (150% increase from pre-2016), the Saudi Women's Premier League, and the GymNation survey's own data showing KSA respondents exercising at rates comparable to UAE.
The UAE's National Sports Strategy 2031 targets 71% of the population participating in sports, delivered through 17 transformational initiatives under the strategy. Supporting this, the Dubai Fitness Challenge has attracted 16 million+ cumulative participants since 2017, with the 2025 edition reaching a record 3 million participants including 307,000+ runners and 40,000+ cyclists. 76% of UAE fitness facilities have already evolved into hybrid wellness models — a structural transformation supporting the participation target.
The 2026 report surveyed 15,322 respondents — a 59% increase from 9,644 in 2025. This growth reflects both GymNation's expanding membership and increased public recognition of the survey. Female representation grew from 39% to 43% (+4pp). The survey now generates 745,000+ data points across 45+ questions in English and Arabic, making it the largest and most comprehensive annual fitness survey in the Gulf region.
Technology & wearables
UAE residents lead with 42% regular wearable usage versus 28% in KSA — a 14 percentage point gap. Combined with occasional users, 58% of all Gulf residents have some engagement with fitness technology. The UAE-KSA gap likely reflects differences in disposable income, tech adoption rates, and the maturity of the fitness wearable retail market in each country. As device prices fall, KSA presents a significant growth opportunity for wearable brands and fitness tech platforms.
While not yet mainstream, 13–15% of respondents across different age groups express interest in high-tech workouts including virtual fitness and AI coaching. This represents a growing niche that is expected to expand as technology improves, costs fall, and consumers become more familiar with AI-driven personalisation. The combination of high aspiration rates (94% wanting to be healthier) and growing tech adoption (58% engaged with fitness technology) creates a strong foundation for AI-powered fitness tools in the Gulf market.
Diet & nutrition literacy
Not universally. While 66% describe their diet as healthy, 15% are unsure what a healthy diet means for them — a significant nutritional literacy gap affecting approximately 2,300 survey respondents. Combined with 18% who acknowledge unhealthy eating habits, there is clear demand for nutritional education across the region. Given that only 13% track food intake regularly, there is significant opportunity for nutrition coaching services, dietary apps, and operator-led nutrition programming in Gulf gyms.
Yes — creatine has reached mainstream adoption. 23% of respondents use creatine, placing it on par with omega-3 and fish oil (also 23%) and only behind vitamins/minerals (37%) and protein powder (27%). This level of creatine adoption reflects global trends where the supplement has moved beyond competitive bodybuilding into everyday fitness. The 23% rate among a broad survey population (not just competitive athletes) confirms creatine as an established part of the Gulf fitness supplement market.
Recovery & wellness trends
Recovery has become a primary gym driver in the Gulf. Survey data shows 46% want to improve sleep quality, 40% want better stress management, and 52% want improved flexibility — all directly addressed by recovery services. Key modalities trending in the UAE and KSA include: cold plunge, sauna, massage therapy, stretching, breathwork, and meditation. ClassPass data shows sports recovery sessions grew 155% globally year-on-year in 2025. 76% of UAE fitness facilities have already evolved into hybrid models offering wellness and recovery alongside traditional gym services.
The global wellness economy reached USD 6.8 trillion in 2024, growing 8% year-on-year (Global Wellness Institute, 2025). Recovery services specifically are projected to grow at 11% annually through 2029, with the fitness recovery market expanding from USD 8.2 billion (2025) to USD 24.5 billion by 2035. In the Gulf context, 93% aspiring to improve mental health, 46% wanting better sleep, and 40% seeking stress management align directly with the wellness economy's fastest-growing service categories — positioning UAE and KSA as major wellness market growth opportunities.
Gulf fitness market insights
The report acknowledges a self-selection bias: respondents were primarily recruited through GymNation channels, meaning the sample likely skews more health-conscious than the general Gulf population. However, the inclusion of non-members (18% of respondents), the substantial sample size (15,322), and the diversity of demographics (61% Middle Eastern/Arab, 18% South Asian) provide robust insights into regional attitudes. Year-over-year comparisons are valid as the methodology has remained consistent. International benchmarks (UK, US) are drawn from published industry surveys with different methodologies, and should be treated as indicative comparisons.
35–44 year-olds show the highest interest in HYROX-style workouts at 33%, followed by 25–34 year-olds at 30%. This suggests HYROX appeals to established fitness enthusiasts with disposable income who are seeking structured competitive challenge rather than casual gym attendance. Gender split is near-equal (30% male, 28% female), making HYROX one of the most gender-balanced fitness trends in the survey — unlike yoga/Pilates (48% women vs 13% men) or strength training which shows male skew.
The Gulf population is highly active by global standards. 79% consider themselves at least moderately active, with 26% very active. 46% exercise four or more times per week — consistent with established fitness populations globally. At 94% health aspiration, the Gulf significantly outpaces both the UK (76%) and US (75%). Saudi Arabia has already exceeded its Vision 2030 target: 59% of Saudi adults now exercise 150+ minutes per week, well above the 40% target set for 2030. The UAE's active population is evidenced by the Dubai Fitness Challenge attracting 3 million participants in 2025 alone.
The social dimension of gym membership is a meaningful retention driver. 31% of members have formed lasting friendships or relationships at their gym — creating social bonds that increase switching costs and drive loyalty. 40% view the gym as at least somewhat social, with 21% calling it a major social hub. Operators that invest in community-building programming — group fitness classes, challenges, social events — benefit from this dynamic. The link between social engagement and membership continuation (82% plan to continue for 3–6+ months) suggests socially-engaged members are among the most likely to retain long-term.
The 15,322 respondents skew toward the 25–44 age bracket (67% combined): 34% are aged 25–34 and 33% are aged 35–44. 14% are aged 18–24 and 13% are 45–54. The survey is split 57% male / 43% female (female share grew +4pp from 2025). By country: 52% are from Saudi Arabia and 48% from the UAE. By ethnicity: 61% Middle Eastern/Arab, 18% South Asian, 11% African, 4% Southeast Asian, 4% European, 2% other. By occupation: 34% professional/office, 12% students, 9% homemakers, 7% healthcare workers.
The data establishes a direct relationship. 58% of non-gym-goers cite affordability as the primary barrier (up from 52% in 2025). Simultaneously, 51% of GymNation members — whose memberships start at AED/SAR 99/month — had no prior gym membership. This correlation strongly suggests that affordable gym access is creating genuinely new demand rather than simply redistributing existing members between chains. 50% of all respondents say more affordable memberships would encourage more exercise — making pricing the single most impactful lever for expanding gym participation in the Gulf region.
While the report does not directly measure market size, the survey data points to strong growth indicators: 43% of residents increased fitness spending in the past year (second consecutive year), 42% plan to increase further in 2026, and only 7% decreased spending. The Vision 2030 and We the UAE 2031 targets drive continued government investment in fitness infrastructure. First-time gym-goer rates at 51% (versus mature markets where most gym-goers have prior experience) indicate the Gulf is in an early-growth phase of gym penetration — analogous to Western markets 15–20 years ago — with significant runway ahead.
The GymNation 2026 UAE & KSA Health & Fitness Report is now the largest annual fitness survey in the Gulf region by sample size. With 15,322 respondents and 745,000+ data points, it is directly comparable to major industry surveys such as PureGym's UK Fitness Report (which the GymNation report cites for UK benchmarks) and Life Time's annual US fitness survey. The Gulf report is distinguished by its bilingual methodology (English and Arabic), its geographic focus on two high-growth markets simultaneously, and its alignment with national health strategies (Vision 2030 and We the UAE 2031) — making it uniquely valuable for policymakers, operators, investors, and health advocates working in the region.
Year-on-year trends 2025 → 2026
Three metrics moved most significantly. First, the survey itself grew +59% from 9,644 to 15,322 respondents — reflecting GymNation's expanding membership base. Second, affordability concerns worsened: the share citing cost as the main gym barrier grew from 52% to 58% (+6pp) — the sharpest single-year increase in the series. Third, gymtimidation among men improved dramatically, falling from 42% to 35% (−7pp) — suggesting normalisation of diverse fitness participation in the Gulf. Female survey representation grew +4pp (39% → 43%), reflecting wider participation in the fitness conversation.
Yes — first-time gym-goers declined slightly from 57% (2025) to 51% (2026). This 6pp fall reflects a naturally maturing membership base: as GymNation scales, a larger proportion of existing members are renewing (rather than joining for the first time). This is actually a positive indicator of membership retention. However, 51% first-timers in 2026 still represents thousands of individuals taking their first steps into gym fitness — validating the ongoing democratisation mission even as the base matures.
Yes — this is the second consecutive year of strong fitness spending growth. In 2026, 43% of respondents increased spending (up from approximately 38% in 2025). Only 7% decreased spending in 2026. The consistency of this trend across two survey years suggests Gulf residents have structurally repositioned fitness as a protected spending category — not a discretionary luxury that contracts during economic uncertainty. This multi-year consistency makes the spending data particularly credible for operators and investors.
Specific fitness formats & sports
Yes — strength training leads all fitness trend categories in 2026, selected by 46% of respondents as the format they most want to try or increase. This dominance holds across all demographic groups — men, women, 25–44 year-olds, professionals — making it the most universally appealing fitness category in the region. The rise of strength training mirrors global trends: PureGym UK data shows strength training is its most popular class category, and the global market for gym equipment specifically used for strength training continues to grow at 5–7% annually.
Strongly yes. The Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025 attracted 307,000+ runners — a record. Riyadh's 135km Sports Boulevard, opened February 2025, provides 4.4 million square metres of dedicated outdoor fitness space that has enabled year-round running despite Riyadh's climate. The GymNation survey shows 46% exercise 4+ times per week in Dubai (52%) and Riyadh (43%), with outdoor activities cited by 19% as their primary exercise setting. Running club culture has expanded significantly in both cities, with weekend park runs and community races becoming mainstream social fitness activities.
CrossFit is part of the broader functional fitness category that appeals to 29% of Gulf respondents (the HYROX/functional training trend). While CrossFit is not broken out separately in the GymNation survey, the Gulf has a well-established CrossFit community — Dubai hosts multiple CrossFit affiliates and has produced internationally competitive CrossFit athletes. The appeal overlaps significantly with HYROX: both attract the 35–44 year-old demographic, both are competitive yet accessible, and both combine cardiovascular and strength elements. The 29% functional/HYROX trend interest reflects this broader appetite for competitive functional fitness across both CrossFit and HYROX formats.
Swimming is not tracked as a distinct category in the GymNation 2026 survey, but it is included within outdoor and recreational exercise (19% primary activity setting). The UAE has extensive swimming infrastructure through hotel pools, beach clubs, and public pools. However, the Gulf climate limits outdoor swimming to approximately 6–8 months of the year, and indoor pools are typically premium-priced, reducing accessibility. The 19% outdoor activity figure likely captures swimming alongside walking, cycling and beach fitness. Gym-based training — at 66% as primary exercise setting — significantly dominates over water-based fitness in the region.
Yes, with strong government support. The Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025 alone attracted 40,000+ cyclists — reflecting the growth of cycling infrastructure and culture. Dubai has invested significantly in dedicated cycling tracks (Al Qudra Cycle Path, Mushrif Park, Dubai Sports City). Riyadh's Sports Boulevard includes cycling lanes across 135km. In the GymNation survey, the 19% outdoor activity segment includes cycling alongside running, with the Dubai Fitness Challenge data confirming tens of thousands of active cyclists in the UAE alone.
Nutrition, diet & supplements — deeper insights
The GymNation 2026 survey does not track specific dietary approaches such as intermittent fasting as distinct variables. However, the Ramadan data is illuminating: during Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset — essentially practicing intermittent fasting for one month per year. 71% of respondents modify their exercise during Ramadan, suggesting that fasting significantly impacts training behaviour. The 49% who rarely or never track food intake may include many practicing intuitive eating or culturally-driven dietary patterns (including period fasting) rather than structured calorie tracking.
Gulf protein powder usage at 27% of respondents is comparable to Western markets (typically 20–30% of gym-going populations). The 27% Gulf figure is particularly notable given it includes non-Arabic respondents (18% South Asian, 11% African) who may have different supplementation habits. Creatine usage in the Gulf (23%) appears higher than many global surveys suggest for general gym-going populations, indicating a relatively sophisticated level of sports nutrition knowledge. The supplement market in the UAE is growing rapidly, supported by regulatory clarity, wide retail availability, and increasing awareness of evidence-based nutrition.
There is a significant nutrition education gap. 15% of respondents are unsure what a healthy diet means for them, and only 13% regularly track food intake. Yet 57% use supplements — suggesting an active engagement with performance nutrition that is not matched by baseline dietary literacy. This creates a clear opportunity for gym operators to integrate nutrition coaching, registered dietitian services, meal planning apps, and in-gym nutrition education. The 18% of respondents who acknowledge unhealthy eating represents approximately 2,750 survey participants — a large addressable group for dietary intervention services.
Demographics — nationality, expats & occupation
The GymNation survey does not separately segment citizens vs expatriates. However, the ethnicity breakdown provides some indication: the 61% Middle Eastern/Arab group includes both Gulf nationals and Arab expats. The UAE's population is approximately 89% expatriate, meaning the majority of any UAE fitness survey respondent is an expat. South Asian respondents (18%) — representing large Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi communities — tend to have different price sensitivities and exercise patterns. The broad health aspiration (94%) across all demographic groups suggests that high health ambition transcends nationality, while exercise frequency and gym access correlate more strongly with income and occupational flexibility.
Generally yes, but the relationship is nuanced. Exercise frequency decreases with age across all Gulf cities — a pattern consistent with global findings. However, HYROX interest peaks among 35–44 year-olds (33%), suggesting that structured competitive fitness becomes more appealing as people move from casual exercise into intentional fitness training in their 30s and 40s. The 18–24 age group (14% of respondents) shows high gym engagement but potentially less consistency. The 55+ population is underrepresented at only 4% — both a gap in the survey and a commercial opportunity for operators targeting active aging demographics.
Occupation significantly influences both gym participation and price sensitivity. Professional and office workers (34% of respondents) have the highest gym participation rates but relatively lower price sensitivity. Students (12%) show high exercise interest but 51% cite affordability as their primary barrier — the second-highest price sensitivity group. Healthcare workers (7%) have above-average fitness engagement, consistent with health sector professional norms globally. Homemakers (9%) represent an important underserved segment — often highly motivated but facing time constraints and potentially limited access to women-friendly facilities.
Corporate wellness & workplace fitness
Corporate wellness is an emerging but growing sector in the Gulf. The GymNation 2026 survey data supports this trend: 34% of respondents are professional/office workers, 49% cite increasing energy and productivity as an exercise motivation, and 40% want to improve stress management — all highly relevant to employer wellness programmes. The UAE's National Wellbeing Strategy 2031 explicitly includes workplace wellbeing across its 90 supporting initiatives. GymNation's multi-location access on a single affordable membership makes corporate group rate structures particularly practical for employers across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh and Jeddah.
49% of respondents say increasing energy levels and productivity is a key exercise motivation — making it the third-ranked motivation behind confidence (52%) and mental health (52%). This "performance ROI" framing of exercise — where fitness improves work output — is particularly relevant for Gulf professionals working long hours in competitive professional environments. The strong correlation between fitness motivation and workplace performance makes corporate wellness programmes a natural fit for the Gulf's white-collar workforce in sectors including finance, technology, healthcare and government.
Future outlook & industry projections
Multiple indicators point to sustained growth. The macro case: Vision 2030 fitness targets exceeded ahead of schedule; We the UAE 2031 targeting 71% sports participation; government infrastructure investment continuing (sports boulevards, fitness parks, wellness districts). The demand case: 94% health aspiration, 43% two-year spending growth streak, 42% planning to spend more in 2026. The supply opportunity case: boutique studios serving only 3% vs 66% gym-goers (enormous market headroom), KSA wearable adoption at 28% vs UAE 42% (convergence opportunity), and the 15% with nutrition uncertainty (nutrition services market). The Gulf fitness market is in a structural growth phase with 5–10 year tailwinds.
Yes — boutique studios represent the clearest near-term expansion opportunity. Currently serving only 3% of Gulf fitness participants vs 66% using traditional gyms, boutique formats (Pilates, yoga, barre, boxing, indoor cycling) are underrepresented relative to global norms (typically 15–25% of gym-going in mature Western markets). Interest data supports growth: 28% want yoga and Pilates, 26% want hybrid/fusion classes. The Pilates Reformer market alone is projected at USD 16.8 billion globally by 2035. UAE boutique expansion is likely to be strongest in Dubai (JLT, DIFC, Downtown, Marina districts) and Riyadh's new commercial fitness precincts.
AI is already transforming Gulf fitness through several emerging channels. Smart gym equipment with AI coaching: 13–15% of respondents express interest in AI-powered workouts. Personalised fitness apps: wearable data (33% regular users) feeds AI recommendation engines for training load, recovery and nutrition. Body composition analysis: GymNation's Boditrax scanning provides AI-processed body composition data across all 44+ locations. The combination of Gulf residents' high tech adoption (UAE: 42% wearables), strong fitness aspiration (94%), and government digital infrastructure investment (UAE AI Strategy 2031) positions the Gulf as a leading market for AI-powered fitness personalisation.
Saudi Arabia's gym market has significant growth headroom. KSA respondents exercise slightly less frequently than UAE (42% 4+ times/week in Jeddah vs 52% in Dubai), wearable adoption lags UAE by 14pp (28% vs 42%), and affordability concerns remain high (58% overall). Against this, the structural tailwinds are enormous: Vision 2030 has already driven female participation +150% from pre-2016 levels, 59% now meet WHO physical activity guidelines (up from 13% in 2015), and Riyadh's 135km Sports Boulevard has created a physical fitness culture anchor. KSA represents the single largest growth opportunity in the Gulf fitness market — and GymNation's growing KSA network is positioned at the heart of it.
GymNation — facilities, pricing & access
GymNation provides women-only training areas in many of its 44+ locations, including dedicated female zones in the UAE and gender-segregated facilities across Saudi Arabia, consistent with KSA regulations and cultural norms. Given that 53% of female survey respondents prefer or require women-only training spaces (with 46% calling it essential), women-only access is a central pillar of GymNation's ability to serve the full Gulf population. Saudi Arabia's gender-segregated gym environment has demonstrably reduced gymtimidation for women (45% KSA vs 60% UAE) — validating the structural importance of dedicated female facilities.
GymNation's 44+ locations typically include: free weights zones (dumbbells, barbells, squat racks, benches), cardio equipment (treadmills, ellipticals, rowing machines, bikes), resistance machines (cable systems, chest press, leg press, lat pulldown), functional training areas (kettlebells, battle ropes, pull-up stations, medicine balls), group exercise studios for classes, and Boditrax body composition scanning. Most locations are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Personal training, group fitness classes, and fitness assessments are available. All of this is included in or accessible from memberships starting at AED/SAR 99/month.
Yes — a single GymNation membership provides access to all 44+ GymNation locations across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. This multi-location access is particularly valuable for residents of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and other UAE emirates who travel regularly, as well as for expatriates who split time between UAE and KSA. The flexibility of single-membership multi-gym access, combined with the AED/SAR 99/month starting price and no long-term contracts, is a core component of GymNation's People's Gym value proposition.
GymNation differentiates on four dimensions. Price: From AED/SAR 99/month — the lowest price point of any large-chain gym in the Middle East. Scale: 44+ locations gives unique multi-site access on a single membership. Impact: 51% of members are first-time gym-goers — GymNation is genuinely creating new demand, not just competing for existing gym members. Data: This annual 15,322-respondent Health & Fitness Report is the most comprehensive fitness survey in the Gulf — providing unmatched insight for members, operators, and policymakers. GymNation's AED 99 model has been validated by $100 million in private credit from HPS Investment Partners (BlackRock) for expansion to 100+ locations.
GymNation is actively expanding toward 100+ locations, with continued growth across UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. International expansion into Southeast Asia — specifically Thailand and Malaysia — is being evaluated as GymNation tests whether the People's Gym budget model works in new high-growth markets. These markets share characteristics with GymNation's existing footprint: large urban populations, strong health aspiration, and a growing middle class that is underserved by affordable premium gym infrastructure. The $100 million HPS Investment Partners (BlackRock) credit facility backs this expansion trajectory.
Ramadan, culture & religious context
The GymNation data provides clear operator guidance. 71% modify exercise during Ramadan: 42% slightly adjust, 29% significantly reduce or stop. Effective Ramadan operator strategies include: late-night programming (after iftar, typically 10pm–2am) to accommodate post-fast energy; shorter, higher-intensity sessions compatible with fasted training; flexible membership pause options for the 29% who stop exercising; Ramadan-themed challenges and community events to maintain engagement; nutrition and hydration guidance for suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (breaking fast) eating patterns; and female-specific programming that accounts for the higher modesty requirements during Ramadan.
Fasting during Ramadan presents genuine physiological challenges for exercise: reduced caloric intake, altered sleep patterns, and dehydration during daylight hours. Research on Ramadan and athletic performance shows minimal impact on strength when training is shifted to evening hours (post-iftar) when hydration and nutrition are restored. The 4% who increase exercise during Ramadan likely represent highly motivated individuals who use the spiritual discipline of Ramadan to intensify their fitness commitment. The majority (71% modifying exercise) reflects pragmatic management of energy and social demands — a pattern operators should support rather than resist through flexible programming and compassionate membership policies.
Mental health & wellbeing — deeper questions
The slightly higher KSA mental health aspiration (94% vs UAE 90%) may reflect several factors. Saudi Arabia is undergoing the most rapid social transformation in its modern history under Vision 2030 — with structural changes to gender roles, entertainment access, and social norms creating significant psychological adjustment pressures. Stress associated with rapid societal change can elevate mental health awareness and desire for improvement. Additionally, the strong link between physical fitness and mental wellbeing may be more explicitly recognised in KSA's policy narrative (where Vision 2030's Quality of Life Program explicitly frames fitness as a wellbeing and productivity driver, not just a health intervention).
The GymNation data reveals a clear paradox. 93% aspire to improve mental health — making it a primary goal of exercise. Yet 26% of those who stopped exercising cite mental health or low mood as a reason. This creates a fitness catch-22: exercise is the solution to poor mental health, but poor mental health prevents exercise. Gym operators can address this through low-barrier re-entry pathways (short trial sessions, beginner-friendly environments, peer support programmes), mental health awareness programming, partnerships with mental health professionals, and membership freeze options that allow individuals experiencing mental health challenges to pause without penalty.
Recovery, sleep & holistic wellness
46% of respondents want to improve their sleep quality — the fourth-highest health improvement priority. Gulf lifestyle factors create specific sleep challenges: intense heat (often requiring evening exercise instead of daytime), irregular working hours across hospitality and service sectors, late-night social culture, and the impact of mobile/screen use. Ramadan also significantly disrupts sleep patterns for 71% who modify behaviour during it. The growing awareness of sleep as a performance variable (not just a rest state) is influencing fitness choices — with recovery classes, sleep tracking via wearables, and gym-based meditation programming all gaining commercial traction.
Based on survey demand (46% sleep improvement, 40% stress management, 52% flexibility/mobility) and market data, the most commercially viable recovery services for Gulf operators are: (1) Stretching and mobility zones — low-cost, high-demand, addresses the 52% flexibility priority. (2) Cold plunge and contrast therapy — premium but growing; the cold plunge market is projected at USD 530–660 million globally by 2033. (3) Infrared sauna pods — popular in UAE boutique wellness already. (4) Foam rolling and percussion therapy (Theragun-style) — accessible price point. (5) Guided breathwork and meditation spaces — directly addresses the 40% stress management priority and 93% mental health aspiration.
About GymNation — The People's Gym
GymNation is the largest budget fitness chain in the Middle East, operating 44+ locations across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. Founded in 2018 by Loren Holland, Frank Afeaki, and Ant Martland, GymNation operates under the tagline "The People's Gym" with a mission to make world-class fitness accessible to everyone regardless of income.
Memberships start from AED 99 per month in the UAE and SAR 99 per month in Saudi Arabia, with no long-term contracts and access to all 44+ locations across UAE, KSA and Bahrain on a single membership. Most locations operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
GymNation facilities include free weights, cardio equipment, functional training zones, resistance machines, group exercise studios, and Boditrax body composition scanning. The company has been recognised as one of the Arabian Business 100 Most Admired Companies (2024) and a Fast Company Brand That Matters (2025).
GymNation produces this annual Health & Fitness Report to provide the most comprehensive data on fitness attitudes in the Gulf — supporting operators, policymakers, health advocates, and investors in building a healthier, more active Gulf region aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and We the UAE 2031.
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Social Dimensions of Fitness
Impact of Ramadan & Religious Holidays on Exercise Habits