Dubai fitness industry set for more growth as the UAE promotes healthy lifestyles
The fitness industry is seeing steady growth in the UAE, where government action has been part of a shift towards more healthy lifestyles. That is according to the 2025 UAE Health and Fitness Industry Report from Dubai Active Industry, developed in collaboration with Qantara Sports and IEG Middle East.
The UAE’s fitness sector is thriving, with Dubai taking centre stage. Marked by rapid growth and distinctive sociocultural dynamics, the industry is increasingly propelled by the Emirati government’s ambition to position the nation as a global leader in health and wellness.
Government initiatives like the Dubai Fitness Challenge and the National Sports Strategy 2031 continue to drive participation and promote community health across the UAE. Obesity and diabetes are major problems in the UAE, where they impact 20% of the population – and authorities want solutions.
The recent popularity of healthier lifestyles and longevity trends is also becoming mainstream with real estate developers placing strong emphasis on community assets and master plans designed with wellbeing at their core. This translates into more in-home gyms, as well as shared fitness facilities integrated into apartment complexes and condominium developments.
Gyms, studios, and wellness centers
The report surveyed a range of different fitness and health companies, including large gym chains, boutique studios, and wellness centers. The results found that over half (55%) count themselves as part of the premium pricing segment, and that Dubai maintains the overwhelming market presence with 80% of operators.
Roles are also changing as these companies begin to offer consumers are a mixed bag of services. For example, only 24% operate as traditional gyms, while 76% have evolved into hybrid models combining multiple services – from boutique studios to comprehensive wellness facilities.
The UAE is a prime market for upscale options in many markets, and fitness is no exception. The fitness market in the UAE has a clear mid to premium orientation, with many operators successfully commanding higher price points. There are few pure budget operators (7%), which suggests most consumers would instead opt to use their residential fitness facilities, which are common across the UAE.
A total of 43% of the surveyed operators are considered mid-market, while the next most common category is premium or luxury, at 22%. When it comes to market domination, Dubai is only seconded by Abu Dhabi, with Sharjah a emerging market in third.
Fitness in the UAE market
Reflecting cultural adaptation and market understanding, 52% of operators provide some type of women-focused services. While that shows the industry is ready to serve the UAE’s cultural requirements while maximizing market accessibility, still 41% did not have any ladies-only provisions.
This growth in the sector has come as the UAE as a whole has seen a huge increase in population over the past 20 years, which has been partly driven by expat residents. There has been a shift in focus towards wellbeing and health, mirrored by global trends. Corporate wellness programs are also expanding, with 88% of UAE companies planning to expand such programs.
With continued government support, shifting consumer preferences, and steady sector growth, the UAE fitness market is set to expand further. The focus now extends beyond physical exercise to a more holistic, inclusive, and community-oriented focus, positioning the sector as an integral part of daily life in the country.
“The operator analysis reveals a UAE fitness market characterized by high engagement, sophisticated consumer preferences, and clear segmentation opportunities that reward strategic operators with substantial growth potential,” the report notes.
“However, success in this market requires operators to simultaneously excel in multiple dimensions including location strategy, operational excellence, pricing sophistication, and service innovation. The data indicates that market leadership will belong to operators who can effectively address the primary consumer pain points – weather concerns, cost optimization, and time efficiency – while building sustainable competitive advantages.”
The research partners
Commenting in the report, Tom Reece, Marketing Director of IEG Middle East, said: “Through this report, we aim to understand evolving consumer needs and help drive the sustainable growth of the UAE’s health and fitness market. It is inspiring to see the industry unite behind a shared vision of a healthier, more connected nation.”
Jordi Pinillos, Co-Founder and CEO of Qantara Sports, added: “This collaborative research marks the start of an ongoing effort to produce national data that will help understand the local market dynamics and provide insights that will help the industry manage an evolving landscape. Our aim in future editions is to expand participation of operators and consumers to enhance representation across all Emirates.”
