Might Dubai emerge as the newest global hotspot for increased lifespans, akin to renowned longevity zones?

In the heart of the Gulf region, a significant shift is underway, with a growing population of older individuals and increased life expectancy posing fresh challenges. This transformation is particularly evident in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where the focus is on unlocking the secrets of healthy aging and potentially extending human life beyond 120 years.

Dr. Richard Siow, director of ageing research at King's College London and a visiting professor at the University of Oxford, is at the forefront of this exciting journey. He emphasizes the importance of digital tracking, personalized medicine, and preventive strategies in achieving this goal.

Inside Dubai's first longevity clinic, these principles are being put into practice. Better preventive care, precision medicine, and new drug discoveries are being combined to position the UAE as a prime destination for healthy aging. The UAE aspires to become a regional longevity blue zone, following the example of regions with a higher-than-average number of centenarians, such as Okinawa in Japan and Sardinia in Italy.

However, longevity is not just about living longer; it's about living well. Dr. Elie Abirached, CEO of Restore Fitness and Limitless Human in Dubai, stresses the importance of getting the basics right—eating well, managing sleep, and moving enough—to unlock the full potential of our bodies.

The science of longevity must also be region-specific, considering the genetics of each person and their environment, according to Dr. Siow. This approach is reflected in the collaborative efforts of scientists and healthcare professionals from institutions like the Dubai Health Authority, UAE University, and Tawam Hospital, who are working alongside international experts in geriatrics and gerontology.

The UAE's commitment to healthy aging is not a new development. In 2016, Sharjah became the first Arab city to join the WHO's Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities. Abu Dhabi, frequently recognized as one of the world's safest cities, and Dubai, known as a hub for innovation and technology in healthcare, continue to play key roles in this endeavour.

The UAE's focus on healthy aging is particularly significant given the global trend of an ageing population. According to a UN report, the share of over 65s has almost doubled and is forecast to continue climbing, with today's youth most exposed to the challenges of living longer into old age. Europe, North America, and parts of Asia are already experiencing rising elderly proportions, creating real challenges for healthcare, the workforce, and retirement plans.

The UAE's approach to these challenges is twofold: developing geriatric care and investing in preventive medicine, while also supporting age-friendly urban planning for older people. This proactive approach to healthcare, kick-started by the Covid-19 pandemic in the UK, is helping build a wider understanding of healthcare system demands and supporting an ageing nation.

Simultaneously, health care is improving at a rapid pace due to the intervention of digital health technology and artificial intelligence, helping enhance population health span through the prevention of age-related health conditions. The first World Health Expo (WHX Tech) in Dubai highlighted these advancements and the importance of scientific research and preventive health care in the quest for healthy aging.

As the UAE continues to pioneer this new era of healthy aging, it serves as a beacon of hope for a future where quality years, not just age, define our lives.