UAE health survey reveals alarming trends in diet, activity and vitamin D deficiency

The latest National Health and Nutrition Survey (2024–2025) has revealed key health trends in the UAE. While some improvements have been made, concerns remain over diet, physical activity, and vitamin D deficiency across all age groups. Authorities are now preparing to adjust public health strategies based on the findings.

The survey highlights persistent challenges in the UAE's population health. Nearly 60% of adults fail to meet recommended physical activity levels, despite an 11.7% increase in activity over the past seven years. Meanwhile, 96.2% of adults consume more sodium than the daily limit, and 22.4% live with obesity—though this marks a 14.8% decline over 15 years.

High cholesterol affects 54.2% of adults, while 25.9% have high blood pressure. Smoking rates have dropped by 2.4% in the same period, showing gradual progress in tobacco control.

Vitamin D deficiency remains a major issue. Almost half of adults (49.3%) and nearly 70% of children lack sufficient levels. Studies suggest no significant improvement in child deficiency rates, with a 2022 Dubai report finding 70% of children affected—matching earlier data. Limited public records exist for exact trends in under-18s over the last five years, but experts agree the problem persists widely.

Childhood obesity also presents a sharp contrast: rates jump from 2.2% in under-fives to 16.1% in the 6–17 age group. On a positive note, prenatal care coverage is strong, with 99.6% of women attending at least one visit during pregnancy.

The Ministry of Health and Prevention will use these findings to update its public health framework. New programmes are expected to target nutrition, exercise, and deficiency prevention more effectively.

The survey results provide a clear picture of the UAE's health strengths and weaknesses. With high sodium intake, low physical activity, and widespread vitamin D deficiency still prevalent, the government's next steps will focus on tailored interventions. The data will shape policies aimed at reducing obesity, improving diet, and boosting overall wellbeing in coming years.