Metabolic Health in the UAE: Why 67% of UAE Adults Are at Risk for Diabetes (And What to Do About It)

Understanding Prediabetes Risks and Solutions

Think you’re healthy because you hit the gym and watch what you eat? Think again. In a startling discovery that’s shaking up everything we thought we knew about diabetes risk in the UAE, new nationwide screening data reveals an uncomfortable truth: 67% of UAE residents between 36 and 60 are walking around with prediabetes – and most of them don’t even know it.

But here’s the real shocker: 64% of these pre-diabetic residents weren’t even overweight.

Let that sink in for a moment. We’re not talking about people who fit the traditional “at-risk” profile. These are your colleagues who meal prep religiously, your friends who never miss their morning CrossFit session, and maybe even you – despite your best efforts to stay healthy.

“I was completely blindsided,” says Ahmed, a 42-year-old marketing executive in Dubai who discovered his prediabetic status during a routine check-up. “I run three times a week, eat clean, and have never had weight issues. I thought I was doing everything right.”

Ahmed’s story isn’t unique. Across the Emirates, from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah, thousands of seemingly healthy individuals are discovering they’re standing on the edge of a metabolic cliff. The good news? Unlike many health conditions, this one comes with a warning system – if you know what to look for.

And that’s exactly what you’re about to learn.

In the next few minutes, you’ll discover why this silent epidemic is sweeping through the UAE, the surprising signs you might be at risk (even if you’re fit), and most importantly, the proven steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. Because contrary to popular belief, prediabetes isn’t a life sentence – it’s a wake-up call. And for thousands of UAE residents who’ve already heeded that call, it’s becoming a turning point toward better health.

Understanding Metabolic Health in UAE: The Hidden Danger of Prediabetes

What your doctor isn’t telling you about prediabetes might be the most important health information you’ll read this year.

First, let’s demystify what prediabetes actually is – because it’s not what most people think. Imagine your body’s relationship with sugar like a precision-engineered German car. When it’s running perfectly, it processes fuel (sugar) efficiently. But with prediabetes, that fine-tuned engine starts to sputter. The fuel lines—your insulin pathways—can’t deliver fuel effectively. That’s insulin resistance. Instead, the fuel gets stored in other parts, slowing down your engine and causing wear and tear, eventually damaging your machine. Your body is still working, but far from peak performance.

Prediabetes means your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes. But here’s what makes it particularly dangerous in the UAE:

• The numbers are staggering: 24% of young adults (18-35) are prediabetic
• Among those aged 36-60, that number skyrockets to 67%
• Even our seniors aren’t immune, with 9% of those over 60 affected

“What we’re seeing in the UAE is unprecedented,” explains Dr. Buthaina Bin Belaila, head of the Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health Department. “The combination of our climate, lifestyle, and dietary habits has created a perfect storm for metabolic health issues.”

Factors Impacting Metabolic Health in UAE Residents: Why This Matters Now More Than Ever

The traditional narrative around diabetes risk in the UAE is changing. While we’ve long associated diabetes with obvious risk factors like obesity or a poor diet, the recent nationwide screening campaign revealed something disturbing: physical fitness alone isn’t enough to protect you.

Think about that for a moment.

You could be:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Exercising regularly
• Eating what you think is a balanced diet

And still be at risk.

The Hidden Factors Affecting UAE Residents

Several unique factors contribute to our high prediabetes rates:

• Extended indoor lifestyles due to heat
• High reliance on car transportation
• Traditional social gatherings centered around food and alcohol
• Increasing work stress and irregular eating patterns
• Limited outdoor activity during summer months
• Irregular sleep patterns

But here’s the silver lining: Unlike many health conditions, prediabetes is reversible. The key lies in catching it early and ‘taking action’.

Understanding your risk isn’t about living in fear – it’s about empowerment. And the first step toward that empowerment is knowing your numbers, which we’ll explore in detail in the next section.

Remember: Prediabetes is like a yellow traffic light. You can either slam on the brakes and make changes now, or risk running straight into the red light of full-blown diabetes. The choice is yours, but the time to act is now.

Understanding Your Numbers: Your Metabolic Health Scorecard

If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably wondering: “How do I know if I’m at risk?” Let’s decode the crucial numbers that can tell you where you stand.

The Two Most Important Numbers You Need to Know

1. Blood Glucose Levels: Your Daily Snapshot

Think of your blood glucose level as your body’s daily financial statement – it shows what’s happening right now. When you get a regular blood sugar test, it’s like checking your current bank balance.

What’s normal?

• Fasting blood glucose (testing before eating): 70-99 mg/dL
• 2 hours after eating: Less than 140 mg/dL
• Prediabetes range: 100-125 mg/dL (fasting)

2. HbA1c: Your Three-Month Report Card

This is the big one – think of HbA1c as your quarterly performance review. It shows your average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months, making it much harder to “fake” good results with short-term behavior changes.

The Magic Numbers:

• Normal: Below 5.7%
• Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

Why These Numbers Matter in the UAE

“What’s particularly concerning in the UAE is that we’re seeing elevated HbA1c levels even in young adults,” says Dr. Amin Hussein Al Amiri, assistant undersecretary for the Health Regulation Sector at MoHAP. “This suggests that metabolic problems are starting earlier than we previously thought.”

Getting Tested in the UAE: Easier Than You Think

Unlike traditional medical approaches that often treat symptoms in isolation, Avida Longevity takes a more integrated approach:

• Quarterly health reassessments to track progress
• Monthly check-ins with health experts
• Access to both preventive and regenerative treatments
• Customized lifestyle recommendations that fit UAE culture and climate

Avida Longevity doesn’t just address the tip of the iceberg—it dives deep to uncover the root causes and tackle them head-on through sustainable, long-term lifestyle changes.

Taking the First Step

If you’re concerned about your metabolic health, here’s what you can do:

1. Start with a comprehensive assessment to understand your current status
2. Work with experts to create a personalized action plan
3. Ensure you have ongoing support and monitoring
4. Take advantage of advanced treatments when necessary

Avida Longevity offers all these services under one roof, making it easier to coordinate your metabolic health journey. Our state-of-the-art facility in Jumeirah 3 provides everything from initial assessments to ongoing support and advanced treatments.

Action Plan: Practical Steps for UAE Residents

1. Diet Modifications That Work in the UAE

Smart Swaps:

• Replace white bread with whole grain Arabic bread, sourdough breads, lentil breads; you have many great options here!
• Choose grilled meat, chicken, fish over fried options – air fryers can be good alternatives
• Swap sugary karak chai for unsweetened green tea, oat milk or almond milk coffee – or ask them to prepare the chai without sugar!
• Opt for fresh dates instead of processed sweets or high-calorie desserts
• Swap out large portions of rice or pasta for a generous serving of colorful, nutrient-packed veggies—it’s easier than ever with fresh, pre-cut options available in supermarkets

Timing Matters:

• Eat your main meal earlier in the day
• Space meals 4-5 hours apart – give time for digestion
• Consider having high quality, protein and fiber packed snacks especially in the afternoon.
• Maintain consistent meal times each day to support your body’s natural rhythm and overall well-being

2. Exercise in the UAE Climate

Adults need at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week, such as 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. Adults also need 2 days of muscle-strengthening activity each week

Indoor Options:

• Mall walking during summer months
• Home workout routines
• Swimming in indoor pools
• Gym classes in air-conditioned facilities

Outdoor Opportunities:

• Early morning walks in residential areas
• Evening sports in community parks
• Beach activities during cooler months

Outdoor cycling (Meydan, Al Qudra cycle tracks)

• Desert hiking in winter

3. Lifestyle Adjustments

Sleep Habits:

• Maintain regular sleep patterns despite late-night culture
• Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep
• Keep bedrooms cool for an effective night sleep (21-23 degrees)
• Avoid screens just before sleeping – putting your phone away can be a great solution
• Avoid caffeinated drink consumption after 2pm – remember caffeine stays in your system even after 10 hours.

Stress Management:

• Practice mindfulness, yoga, or meditation
• Join community support groups
• Regular social connections (beyond social media)
• Utilise workplace wellness programs

Don’t wait to become part of the 67%. Take control of your metabolic health. Book a Longevity Assessment at Avida to understand your current status and create a personalized plan for optimal health. Your future self will thank you.

Click here to book your Longevity Assessment.

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