UAE residents continue to report high levels of safety, optimism and belonging despite regional conflict and cost pressures, but financial strain remains the clearest challenge to long-term wellbeing, according to new research from Cigna Healthcare.
Cigna Healthcare’s “Well-being & Health Pulse in the UAE” survey, conducted in April 2026 among 380 respondents across the UAE, measured overall well-being and six connected pillars: physical, mental, financial, social, family and workplace well-being.
The findings show a population with strong foundations. Overall well-being remains moderately strong, with a Wellbeing Index rating of 70%.
Key findings from the survey include:
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Overall well-being remains moderately strong, with a Wellbeing Index rating of 70%
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79% of respondents are optimistic about the near future despite the current situation.
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89% feel physically safe in the UAE, while 83% feel emotionally safe.
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86% say they feel at home in the UAE, and 79% say they tend to bounce back or recover after hardships.
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21% plan to remain in the UAE for six to 10 years, while 48% plan to stay for more than 10 years.
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Family well-being is the strongest pillar, rated 80%, while financial well-being is the weakest, rated 53%.
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Financial well-being is the weakest of the six pillars. Only 45% feel able to manage cost pressures with rising prices.
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49% are confident in their ability to manage expenses and income.
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Workplace well-being was rated 69% among working respondents, although only 56% feel positive about job security.
Ms Leah Cotterill, CEO of Cigna Healthcare Middle East and Africa, said, “The findings show a UAE population with strong foundations. People feel safe, connected and optimistic about the future, even during a period of regional conflict and wider uncertainty. That is an important signal of resilience and confidence in the UAE.”
“At the same time, we are observing that well-being is becoming more complex. Financial pressure, workplace expectations, family responsibilities and mental resilience all shape how people experience their health. For employers, insurers and healthcare partners, there is a real opportunity to look at wellbeing more holistically and support people across the different parts of their lives.”
About the “Well-being & Health Pulse” research
The Cigna Healthcare “Well-being & Health Pulse in the UAE” research measured sentiment and well-being across six pillars: physical, mental, financial, social, family and workplace well-being. Workplace findings are based on working respondents within the sample.
Operating for more than 19 years in the Middle East region, Cigna Healthcare serves the GCC markets and Lebanon. Cigna Healthcare provides extensive coverage across Africa, including Morocco, Kenya, Uganda, Mauritius, Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia.