Imagine a society where the well-being of the mind takes center stage over the body’s physical demands – that’s the groundbreaking reality unfolding in the UAE, where millennials are spearheading a wave of change that could redefine global health priorities. But here’s where it gets truly intriguing: what if prioritizing mental health isn’t just a trend, but a bold step toward a more balanced future? Dive in with us as we explore this transformative shift, backed by eye-opening survey data that might just challenge everything you thought you knew about wellness.
A recent international survey has uncovered a striking evolution in attitudes toward health in the UAE, revealing that more residents are now placing mental well-being ahead of physical care. This marks a significant departure from traditional views, highlighting how perceptions of what it means to be truly healthy are evolving. The study, conducted by Cigna Healthcare, drew on responses from over 11,800 individuals across 13 global markets, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and various European countries. It delved into aspects of vitality and overall well-being, covering dimensions like physical health, mental health, financial stability, family dynamics, and work-life balance, all tied to how people seek out and access healthcare services.
In a first-of-its-kind revelation from the 2025 Cigna Healthcare International Health Study, UAE participants who completed an in-depth questionnaire in May 2025 expressed a clear preference for mental health over physical health. This is a big deal for beginners to grasp: instead of focusing solely on exercise or diet, people here are increasingly valuing emotional stability and psychological strength as the foundation of good health. The percentage of UAE residents reporting robust mental health surged by seven points compared to the previous year, reaching an impressive 64% – that’s 21 points higher than the worldwide average. Breaking it down by gender, men reported the strongest mental well-being at 68%, while women followed at 55%. This gender gap might spark some debate – is it influenced by societal expectations, or perhaps access to resources? We’ll touch on that later.
Leah Cotterill, the chief executive of Cigna Healthcare Middle East, offers insights into why the UAE is diverging from the global norm, where physical health typically takes precedence. ‘We’re witnessing tangible proof that substantial national funding for mental health services, proactive preventive measures, and cutting-edge digital tools are yielding real, quantifiable benefits,’ she explains. For the first time, mental well-being has eclipsed physical health as the UAE’s primary concern. Cotterill interprets this as evidence of a broader, deeper societal transformation, where health isn’t just about avoiding sickness but embracing a state of equilibrium, energy, and emotional fortitude. This shift, she notes, has been fueled by open national conversations, forward-thinking workplace policies, and a growing reduction in stigma surrounding mental health discussions.
Of course, no progress comes without hurdles, and the path to better mental health care worldwide is riddled with challenges. Prejudice, longstanding taboos, and deeply ingrained religious or cultural beliefs have historically hindered some nations from providing essential mental health services. In many places, insufficient funding, exorbitant treatment costs driven by a scarcity of qualified mental health professionals, and lengthy wait times have left critical psychological support out of reach for those who need it most. These barriers can be devastating, as untreated mental health issues can ripple through every aspect of life, from personal relationships to professional productivity, ultimately slowing economic growth.
The UAE, however, has been actively dismantling these obstacles through targeted reforms. National regulations, such as the Federal Mental Health Law and Dubai’s Dh105 million Mental Health Framework, demonstrate a strong governmental dedication to fostering a more resilient populace. These initiatives are complemented by grassroots community efforts, like Abu Dhabi’s Parent-Friendly Label program, which champions flexible working hours to integrate well-being seamlessly into everyday routines. For instance, imagine being able to adjust your workday to prioritize family time or self-care – these small changes can make a world of difference in reducing stress and building emotional resilience.
Experts in the field echo the importance of this momentum. Dr. Shahana Kasim, a psychiatrist at NMC Specialty Hospital in Abu Dhabi, emphasizes that mental health is a crucial driver of a nation’s economic advancement. ‘When mental illnesses go untreated, they impair an individual’s ability to function across all areas of life, including their job performance,’ she points out. ‘This leads to decreased productivity for employers and, in turn, acts as a roadblock to the country’s overall development and prosperity.’ Yet, a major stumbling block remains for many: low levels of mental health awareness. Dr. Kasim explains that some still view mental health struggles as a sign of personal weakness, perpetuating misunderstandings. Conditions like depression and anxiety are often misinterpreted and unfairly labeled, with some attributing them to weak faith or spiritual shortcomings, fostering feelings of guilt or shame. Fear of societal judgment adds another layer of resistance. Still, these survey results could represent a pivotal milestone in boosting mental health education across the UAE, helping more people seek help without hesitation.
On the physical health front, the survey revealed mixed results among UAE residents aged 25-44. About 46% reported maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet, and 52% enjoyed consistent, quality sleep. However, fewer than half – also 46% – engaged in regular exercise. This disparity underscores a key point often overlooked: while mental health is gaining ground, physical habits lag behind, perhaps because people are reallocating their focus. Dr. Shaju George, a psychiatrist at International Modern Hospital in Dubai, reinforces this by stating, ‘True health can’t exist without mental health.’ She notes that younger generations worldwide, particularly in the UAE, are openly discussing mental health issues without the taboo that once silenced them. They’re seeking support and owning their experiences, a refreshing departure from past generations.
And this is the part most people miss – the UAE’s evolving health priorities align with broader international movements. A recent United Nations declaration has elevated mental health to the same level as chronic illnesses like cancer and cardiovascular disease. Although still awaiting final approval from the UN General Assembly, this move signals a worldwide push to integrate mental health treatments into routine primary care clinics rather than confining them to specialized centers. Locally, such shifts could expand access to mental health services for an additional 150 million people by 2030, according to UN estimates. Dr. Sneha John, a psychologist at Medcare Camali Clinic, adds that insurance coverage now often includes mental health benefits, empowering more residents to afford care. ‘In the wake of the pandemic, I’ve observed a surge in individuals addressing stress, anxiety, and emotional hurdles, mirroring a societal embrace of mental health as a vital piece of comprehensive wellness,’ she shares.
Global figures from the World Health Organization paint a stark picture: over a billion people worldwide grapple with mental health conditions, yet fewer than 7% receive adequate treatment, often after enduring months of waiting. Dr. Roberta Fedele, a clinical psychologist at the BPS Clinic in Dubai, highlights the UAE’s progress since 2010, attributing it to a surge in mental health centers and widespread media coverage through articles, studies, and surveys. Influential public figures have also played a role by courageously sharing their own battles, further eroding stigma. The most prevalent issues Dr. Fedele encounters include difficulties adjusting to new environments, anxiety, depression, and previously unrecognized conditions like adult ADHD. Relationship strains are common, while among younger individuals, neurodivergent disorders such as autism and learning challenges, along with emotional and behavioral issues, are frequently seen. Unlike older generations, millennials are well-versed in pressing topics like political unrest, climate crises, and economic uncertainties – and they’re equally attuned to mental health, refusing to sideline it.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this prioritization of mental health over physical care a utopian ideal, or could it inadvertently neglect the body’s needs, leading to long-term health disparities? For example, while celebrating emotional resilience is empowering, what if skipping that daily walk contributes to rising rates of physical ailments? We invite you to weigh in – do you agree that mental health deserves the spotlight, or should a balanced approach maintain equal footing for both? Share your thoughts in the comments; disagreement is welcome, as it’s these debates that deepen our understanding of holistic well-being!