Abu dhabi: Healthy Living, Abu Dhabi's government-led programme for prevention and wellbeing, has unveiled a comprehensive set of strategic initiatives under the Abu Dhabi Healthy Living Strategy. These initiatives aim to drive sustainable behaviour change, enhance population health, and make healthier choices accessible and routine for all citizens and residents. This effort addresses the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, with the goal of enabling longer, healthier lives.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Healthy Living Strategy received endorsement from H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, during an Executive Council session. The strategy outlines 25 initiatives spanning five key domains: enhanced infrastructure, programmes, evidence-based policies and regulations, literacy and awareness, and improved access to healthcare interventions. These initiatives are implemented by government entities, private sector partners, communities, and individuals to remove barriers to healthy behaviours and create supportive environments.
The initial phase of Healthy Living focuses on increasing physical activity, improving nutrition, and strengthening awareness and knowledge. Initiatives addressing other critical health pillars, including sleep and mental wellbeing, will follow later this year. Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, emphasized that treating wellbeing as core infrastructure is reshaping how health is created in Abu Dhabi. This initiative brings together government, private sectors, and communities to reshape environments influencing daily behaviour.
Dr Ahmed AlKhazraji, Executive Director of Healthy Living, highlighted the importance of empowering individuals with information to make informed health choices. The strategy is part of a broader shift from reactive care to a proactive and preventative health approach, and is envisioned as a model for other countries.
Government entities involved include the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, Abu Dhabi Investment Office, and others. Early milestones include a policy for responsible food and beverage advertising and the launch of community initiatives like Degayeg, which promotes physical activity.
The Festival of Health and the Nutri-Mark initiative are other significant milestones. The festival attracted nearly 50,000 participants, while Nutri-Mark helps consumers make informed food choices through a grading system. These efforts demonstrate Healthy Living's impact on improving population health, both within and outside the healthcare sector.