Healthy ageing champions showing life can flourish after 50 - Assalamu alaikum
Assalamu alaikum - Emiratis and residents across the UAE are taking on roles as ambassadors for healthy ageing under a new government initiative that encourages planning for a healthier later life.
Local inspirational figures from different backgrounds were chosen in each emirate to share advice on ageing well. They include older participants in community projects and healthy living programmes.
The Gulf is seeing one of the fastest-growing older populations worldwide, with lifespans increasing faster than birth rates in many places. That trend is set to continue as the UAE expands retirement options for expatriates.
This demographic shift toward older age groups will place more pressure on health services and change economic and social needs. A recent report noted those over 50 in the GCC now make up a larger share of the population than before, and the average age is expected to rise substantially over coming decades.
To prepare, the UAE launched a national framework for healthy ageing centred on inspiring community role models.
Dr Hayat Ahmed, consultant and senior health programme director at the Ministry of Health and Prevention, said 23 government entities helped develop the framework to cover all community aspects.
“The first pillar looks at how people see ageing and how younger generations relate to elders,” Dr Ahmed said. “We’re also supporting communities through initiatives like Healthy Ageing Cities. Another pillar focuses on healthcare - how the workforce supports older people through specialised and integrated clinics.”
A three-day training run by the World Health Organization and the Ministry in Dubai taught selected doctors and specialists the integrated care approach for older people. The global standard improves understanding of older people’s specific needs and how to support independence and quality of life.
Other pillars include reinforcing social cohesion, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring dignity and independence for older citizens. The framework also addresses caregivers - formal and informal - who support those needing help.
“The healthy ageing ambassadors are a key part of this,” Dr Ahmed added. “We trained them intensively on physiological, cognitive and psychological changes with ageing, and how to communicate correct health messages. They were assessed and now act as role models - showing how to age well and live healthily in ways that feel close and authentic to their communities.”
Each emirate will have a healthy ageing ambassador in the pilot phase, with two in Dubai, serving both Emirati and expatriate communities.
One ambassador is Saeed Al Mamry from Fujairah, a former UAE Armed Forces member and an accomplished mountaineer. At 47 he was chosen to inspire others through his achievements on high peaks.
“I’ve seen many people over 50 and 60 doing a lot with their lives,” he said. “I’m 47 and facing the same ageing questions as anyone. The programme aims to engage older people and encourage activity by sending positive messages about what’s possible.”
In May 2025 he became the first Arab to climb Kanchenjunga and was the first Emirati to summit Everest and K2. Now director of the Fujairah Adventure Centre, he hopes to inspire others to exercise outdoors. He expects future generations to reach 100 in good health.
“For us, age is just a number - we can still do much as we get older,” he said. “Retirement isn’t the end; it can be the start of a new journey. Living in Fujairah is different - close to mountains and sea, families nearby, a slower pace. If someone misses a prayer gathering, we check on them. We look out for one another.”
Ambassadors like Mr Al Mamry will share practical tips on gradually increasing activity, from daily walks up to 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly, and encourage community events that bring families together to support elder wellbeing.
Ageing also raises the need to manage chronic conditions and improve care for life-limiting illness. A regional WHO meeting highlighted the gap in palliative care: millions in the region need it each year but only a tiny fraction receive it. Experts urged integrating palliative care into national health plans and primary care.
“Palliative care is a solution, not a challenge,” said the WHO regional director. “We must build capacity, reform regulations and ensure no patient suffers needlessly. The time to act is now.”
May Allah grant our elders health and dignity, and guide communities to care for them with compassion.
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