Abu Dhabi sees boost in physical activity levels

Abu Dhabi residents are getting more active, with a new study showing 53 per cent now meet the World Health Organisation's (WHO) recommended levels of physical activity.

This marks a steady increase from 50 per cent in the previous edition and 36 per cent in the first survey.

The latest Sports and Physical Activity Survey conducted by the Department of Community Development with support from the Sports Council and Statistics Centre, gathered input from over 28,000 people — a 45 per cent increase in participation compared to the previous edition.

There is also good news for youth engagement. The number of children and teens exercising at least an hour a day has increased slightly from 11 per cent to 12.5 per cent.

Community engagement in sports events are booming too. In 2024, Abu Dhabi hosted 145 events with 481,300 participants, compared to 362,000 in 2023 (up 33 per cent).

Officials credit stronger public-private partnerships, better infrastructure like walking and cycling paths, and inclusive programmes for People of Determination and seniors.

As part of its long-term vision, Abu Dhabi continues to align with the WHO’s global health recommendations, which encourage adults to engage in at least 75 minutes of vigorous exercise or 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week.

Read more: https://t.co/WHGZ2SHnDk

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) April 17, 2025