UAE has one of world’s highest vitality scores, shows a recent Cigna Healthcare study

Date Posted:Wed, 14th Aug 2024

UAE has one of world’s highest vitality scores, shows a recent Cigna Healthcare study

The UAE tops global charts with exceptional vitality scores, according to a recent Cigna Healthcare study. The report findings indicate that the UAE’s commitment to holistic health has contributed to higher-than-average vitality levels, and a better work-life balance, positioning the country as a frontrunner in health and wellbeing.

 

Recognizing that health is dynamic and multi-dimensional, the study introduces a scientifically validated approach to assessing whole-person health. It goes a step further by examining how individuals perceive their autonomy, competency, and relatedness - crucial factors in understanding the ability to make personal choices and maintain control over various life domains. 

Notably, 32% of UAE respondents reported high vitality levels, surpassing the global average of 17%. This underscores the effectiveness of the UAE's strategies in promoting holistic wellbeing. The study also examines stress levels, work-life balance, and the impact of the global inflation crisis, shedding light on both the challenges and opportunities in the region's health and wellbeing landscape.

Key Findings:

  • Demographics and Vitality: While 32% of UAE respondents report high vitality levels, a 7% decrease from the previous study, women show marginally higher vitality than men. Millennials (ages 25-44) are the highest-scoring generation for overall vitality.
  • Global and Regional Comparisons: The UAE’s vitality score of 32% outperforms the global average of 17%. Saudi Arabia reports a vitality level of 38%.
  • Wellbeing Aspects: Intellectual and emotional wellbeing are prioritized among UAE respondents, with 71% valuing learning new things and 65% looking forward to each new day. Environmental and social health are also key, with 63% feeling connected to safe, welcoming places and capable of building meaningful relationships.
  • Stress and Burnout: Stress in the UAE remains high at 89%, with 99% of respondents experiencing burnout symptoms. The ‘cost of living crisis’ is the leading cause of stress (45%), followed by personal and family financial concerns.
  • Work Patterns and Stress: There’s an improvement in work-related stress, with 61% working full-time in the office and others in hybrid arrangements. This shift has enhanced concentration at work (44%) and coworker relationships (40%).
  • Lifestyle Changes Post-Pandemic: Post-pandemic lifestyle shifts continue, with 79% emphasizing the importance of being close to family and friends, and 75% prioritizing health and wellbeing more than before.
  • Employer’s Role in Health Enhancement: In the UAE, 74% of employees feel challenged by inflation in the context of maintaining health, with 77% desiring more employer support. Private health insurance plans (83%), flexible work arrangements (35%), and mental health support (33%) are the top employee preferences for health programs.