In a powerful step towards improving the quality of life in the city, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, has launched a new health and wellness initiative called ‘HEWI Dubai’.
The announcement was made on Sunday, and it marks a big move for Dubai’s future. HEWI stands for Health, Empowerment, Welfare, and Innovation, and the goal is simple — to help people live healthier, happier, and longer lives.
This project is part of a wider plan to turn Dubai into one of the world’s top cities when it comes to health and wellbeing.
A Personal Message from Sheikh Hamdan
Sheikh Hamdan shared his excitement about the new initiative, explaining that people’s wellbeing is one of Dubai’s biggest goals. He said that the UAE’s leadership has always made people’s health a top priority.
“Dubai’s plans always start with people’s wellbeing. We believe in making health and happiness a daily part of life for every person in our city,” Sheikh Hamdan said.
He also mentioned that health is not only about physical strength but also about mental wellness and a strong community. HEWI Dubai is designed to support all of these areas in creative and modern ways.
What Is HEWI Dubai All About?
HEWI Dubai is not just one program — it is a full plan made to work across different parts of life in Dubai. The name HEWI stands for:
- Health – encouraging better fitness, diet, and healthcare
- Empowerment – helping people make smart choices for their bodies and minds
- Welfare – supporting mental health and emotional wellbeing
- Innovation – using new technologies and smart solutions to improve health
This mix of values is meant to help everyone in Dubai, from children to older adults, live more balanced and fulfilling lives.
HEWI Dubai focuses on five key areas:
- Health and Prevention
- Food Security and Nutrition
- Physical Activity
- Mental and Social Wellbeing
- Digital Health
Each area includes special programs, policies, and partnerships with private companies, schools, hospitals, and community groups.
New Ideas, Smart Tools, and Better Habits
One exciting part of HEWI Dubai is the use of digital tools and smart ideas to improve how people care for themselves. For example, mobile apps, wearable devices, and AI-powered health checks will be used to track fitness and support people in real-time.
This technology will allow people to set health goals, join fitness challenges, receive mental health support, and even follow custom diet plans.
The aim is to make wellness fun, easy, and a regular part of everyday life.
Helping Everyone, Not Just a Few
HEWI Dubai is made for all residents — not just those who are already fit and healthy. The programs will be open to everyone, no matter their age, background, or job.
Special care will be given to students, workers, and elderly citizens to ensure they receive the right support. This includes creating more green spaces, building walking and cycling tracks, offering free fitness events, and increasing access to mental health services.
There will also be programs in schools to teach children how to eat well, stay active, and care for their minds.
Food, Fitness, and Mental Health All in One
Another major focus of HEWI Dubai is food and nutrition. The initiative will include efforts to improve food safety, teach healthy cooking, and support families in eating balanced meals.
Dubai will also work closely with supermarkets, restaurants, and delivery services to help offer better and healthier food options.
Physical activity is another major focus. More public sports areas, low-cost gym access, and fitness apps will be launched soon. The goal is to make staying active easier for everyone, whether you’re walking in the park or running a marathon.
Mental health will also be a big part of the program. The city will open more mental health centers, increase awareness campaigns, and create safe spaces where people can talk about their feelings without shame.
Supporting Dubai’s 2040 Vision
This new wellness plan also supports Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to make the city greener, safer, and more people-focused.
The master plan wants to build healthier communities, reduce diseases, and raise life expectancy. HEWI Dubai will play a key role in making that vision real.
This is not a short-term project — it’s a long-term mission to build a better, brighter Dubai for the next generation.
The Bigger Picture: A Model for the World
HEWI Dubai is more than just a local program. It’s a chance for Dubai to set an example for the world. By combining technology, policy, and community efforts, the city hopes to inspire other places to take wellness seriously.
It shows that health is not only a personal responsibility but something cities can support through smart planning and real action.
What Happens Next?
The next step will include rolling out the first set of programs and tools under HEWI Dubai. Residents will start to see new wellness campaigns, mobile apps, fitness events, and free health screenings across the city.
Leaders hope that by 2030, Dubai will be among the top global cities in terms of life quality, health services, and happiness.
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