Haleon Health Inclusivity Index ranks UAE to be first in global wellbeing promotion and inclusivity
ABU DHABI: The UAE has topped the world in promoting health outreach, community participation and wellbeing, according to the newly launched Health Inclusivity Index, unveiled by Haleon in collaboration with Economist Impact.
The results were announced during a high-level panel discussion in Abu Dhabi themed “From Awareness to Action: Building Healthier Communities Through Self-Care and Literacy,” hosted by Haleon, the UAE–UK Business Council and Economist Impact.
The Index benchmarks 40 countries across 58 indicators, evaluating performance in inclusive health systems, community engagement, outreach, and health literacy. The UAE ranked first globally in wellbeing promotion and health outreach programmes, and among the top five for person-centred care. The country also placed second for inclusive system implementation and tenth in overall health literacy—a figure that’s improved by 30% over the last three years.
The event featured influential voices from healthcare, academia and public policy, including Dr. Omniyat Al Hajeri from the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre; Arda Arat, General Manager at Haleon GNE; Bradley Jones from the UAE–UK Business Council; and experts from Daman, Abu Dhabi Biobank and Economist Impact.
Speakers highlighted the economic and social gains of inclusive health strategies. Reducing low health literacy in the UAE by 25% could save $2.3 billion annually in healthcare costs. Addressing issues like tooth decay and anaemia in women could save hundreds of millions more, while managing gum disease more effectively could help cut Type 2 diabetes costs by $809 million over ten years.
Beyond numbers, the panel emphasised health literacy and inclusion as keys to building a resilient and equitable society. Experts called for removing barriers to everyday health, supporting self-care, and embedding inclusivity in national strategies.
Dr. Omniyat Al Hajeri said the UAE’s approach is focused on prevention and empowerment. “We’re committed to inclusive, prevention-led systems that protect and inform our communities,” she noted.
The Index is part of a larger initiative to turn data into action—creating healthier futures across the region through cross-sectoral collaboration and smarter outreach.
