The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has introduced a new daily oral treatment option for obesity as part of its Personalised Weight Management Programme, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC).
The program brings together medical treatment, behavioral support, and continuous digital monitoring, with the goal of improving overall health outcomes and enhancing quality of life for patients across the emirate.
This newly introduced treatment addresses one of the most persistent challenges in obesity management, long-term adherence, by offering a more flexible and convenient alternative to traditional therapies, thereby supporting continuity of care and better patient engagement.
Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of DoH, commented that the initiative reflects Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to advance integrated, patient-centered care that responds effectively to real-life challenges, particularly adherence to treatment plans. She further stated that expanding access to innovative healthcare solutions plays a key role in improving patient outcomes and supporting a more sustainable quality of life for the population.
The UAE is the second country globally, after the United States, to approve this treatment for adults living with obesity or those who are overweight with related health conditions, further reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s leadership in healthcare innovation and advanced treatment access.
ICLDC obesity treatment program
As part of the rollout, Imperial College London Diabetes and Endocrine Centre (ICLDC) will offer the treatment to eligible patients through a comprehensive program that combines digital monitoring, personalized clinical support, and an integrated coverage model.
The treatment, Foundayo (orforglipron), is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that helps regulate appetite and food intake, supporting more effective and sustained weight management.
Rashid Alsuwaidi, Director-General of ADPHC, said that the program focuses on addressing behavioral challenges while enabling individuals to adopt sustainable, healthy habits through practical and flexible, patient-friendly solutions. The treatment will be covered for eligible adults under the program, improving access to care and supporting more integrated and effective models for obesity management across the emirate.
