Abu Dhabi Launches Unique Personalised Weight Management Programme to Support Active Living and Reduce Chronic Disease

19 Jun, 2025:

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the emirate’s healthcare sector and Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC), announced the launch of a new, first-of-its-kind in the region, Personalised Weight Management Programme.

Integrating digital monitoring, a unique reimbursement model and tailored clinical support, this holistic initiative promotes sustainable weight management and active living to significantly reduce the risks of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers, and ultimately, enhancing overall quality of life and health longevity.

Open to eligible Thiqa members aged 18 and above who are clinically identified as overweight or obese, the programme features an innovative reimbursement model designed to encourage sustained engagement, accountability, and continuous active participation.

H.E. Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said: “Our focus is on health – not just weight. This programme supports our vision for an active, health-conscious community, empowering individuals through personalised and science-driven solutions. Weight management requires tailored solutions, not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, and this programme ensures each participant receives precisely what they need to succeed.”

The programme provides eligible individuals with a comprehensive, personalized 360-degree health plan that includes early screening, behavioural health support, clinical interventions if medically indicated, and ongoing long-term support to ensure sustainable results.

These plans could include:

• Early Screening: Initial health assessments, including BMI checks and metabolic evaluations, to proactively identify risks.

• Clinical and Treatment Interventions (if medically indicated): Access to medications, under medical supervision ensuring safe and effective care.

• Long-term Support: Structured follow-up plans with ongoing nutritional guidance, regular monitoring of health indicators and activity, and clear, medically supervised strategies for safely transitioning individuals off clinical treatments to maintain sustainable outcomes.

Abu Dhabi’s Sahatna app serves as the dedicated digital health platform, empowering participants, in collaboration with healthcare professionals, to track comprehensive health indicators beyond weight, including physical activity, heart health, sleep, and stress levels, to foster lasting positive changes.

H.E. Dr. Rashid Obaid Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADPHC, added: “We know that even moderate weight loss and modest increases in physical activity significantly lower chronic disease risk. Traditionally, healthcare systems have lacked clear pathways for doctors to support patients in becoming physically active or to effectively link them with supportive services. Our programme directly addresses this gap by providing structured guidance, personalized activity plans, and continuous monitoring support through digital tools and clinical oversight - empowering our community to proactively manage their health and enhance their quality of life.”

Eligible Thiqa members can begin their journey by booking an initial consultation at their local primary care centre, where a dedicated healthcare professionals will guide them through every step of their personalised health plan. All participants, irrespective of past experiences or challenges, are encouraged to take this important first step toward improved weight management and long-term health.

This initiative underscores Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to personalized, preventive health solutions that improve individual wellbeing and community health.