The UAE has sustained a high vitality score of 72.5 in Cigna's latest International Health Study, demonstrating the positive impact of the nation's commitment to whole-person health.
The 2024 study further reveals that the UAE achieved a higher overall well-being index of 62, well above the global average of 46, underscoring the country’s focus on creating an environment conducive to all facets of health and vitality.
The report, unveiled by Ms Leah Cotterill, CEO of Cigna Healthcare MEA (outside KSA), highlights opportunities for organisations to further elevate mental wellbeing, social connectivity, and financial resilience among employees.
The concept of health and well-being has expanded in recent years to include mental, social, and financial well-being, acknowledging the importance of work-life balance, emotional health, and financial security to overall vitality. More than 10,000 respondents across 11 global markets participated in Cigna Healthcare’s annual survey, and their responses were analysed across eight key factors: emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual.
Notably, the UAE's commitment to whole-person health and to fostering a supportive and healthy environment has sustained its vitality as one of the highest scores globally. The study also examined stress levels, work-life balance challenges, and the impact of financial pressures on employees, offering a detailed analysis of the opportunities and obstacles shaping the region’s health and well-being landscape.
Ms Cotterill said, "At a time when mental and financial pressures are rising globally, the UAE remains committed to prioritising wellbeing through initiatives like the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031, which highlights mental health, community cohesion, and long-term financial stability. These efforts, complemented by national mental health programs, create a robust ecosystem for individuals and businesses alike. Cigna Healthcare is proud to align with this vision, providing innovative health solutions that address the full spectrum of wellbeing—from physical wellness to mental and financial health—contributing to the nation’s leadership in holistic healthcare.”
The findings of the Cigna International Health Study were unveiled at a launch event hosted in collaboration with the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai.
Highlighting the shifting dynamics of workplace well-being in the UAE, the discussions covered the mental health challenges employees are facing and the growing financial pressures impacting overall vitality. Experts offered insights into how corporates can adopt holistic wellbeing programs to address both mental and financial health challenges.
Key findings of the Cigna International Health Study:
Vitality and Wellbeing: The UAE reported a high vitality score of 72.5, reflecting the nation’s strong approach to well-being across diverse health areas. This solidifies the UAE amongst the global leaders in promoting supportive environment for holistic health.
Mental Health: As mental health challenges remain a focal area globally, mental well-being scores in the UAE continue to surpass global averages, showcasing the nation’s resilience in managing work-life pressures and stress. Women, singles, and non-working respondents are more impacted, reflecting a growing need for dedicated support in work-life balance
Financial Well-being: Financial well-being remains an important focus, with 44% of respondents noting personal finances as a key area impacting their well-being. The UAE’s proactive initiatives in financial security and well-being underscore the country's commitment to supporting residents in navigating financial challenges as part of a holistic wellness approach
Workplace Stress: The UAE has seen improvements in stress levels, with 58% of employees having job satisfaction, and 75% enthusiastic about the work they do, resulting with reduced impacts on day-to-day activities. However, disrupted sleep (39%) and a loss of interest in daily activities (30%) are common stress indicators.
Work Trends: Approximately 73% of full-time employees in the UAE now work in-person, 23% work in hybrid arrangements, and 4% are fully remote, reflecting a balanced approach to modern work preferences.
The Cigna International Health Study surveyed more than 10,000 respondents in the US, the UK, the Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Switzerland, Kenya, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, China, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
Health today, encompasses mental, social, and financial well-being. This holistic approach reflects the growing recognition that factors such as work-life balance, emotional health, and financial security are critical to overall vitality. The Cigna International Health Study analyses eight key vitality factors: emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual.