UAE intensifies action as chronic sleep deprivation affects nearly 30% of adults

Chronic sleep deprivation has emerged as a growing public health priority in the UAE in 2026, with health authorities shifting from reactive treatment toward population-wide prevention strategies.

Recent data highlights the scale of the issue across the Emirates. Nearly 30% of adults in the UAE are classified as sleep-deprived. A study involving 321 participants found that more than 40% of residents require higher-quality sleep, with significant associations between poor sleep and feelings of depression (22%) and lack of concentration.

In Abu Dhabi, lifestyle patterns such as late nights, excessive screen exposure, and irregular work schedules are cited as major contributors to disrupted sleep cycles. Experts warn that consistently sleeping less than seven hours per night can trigger widespread systemic health problems.

Medical professionals, including specialists at the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, describe sleep as a “core pillar of preventive health.” They emphasize that adequate rest allows the brain to clear metabolic waste through the glymphatic system, a critical process for long-term neurological health.

Health Risks Linked to Sleep Deprivation

Metabolic Health:
Sleep loss disrupts key hormones such as leptin and ghrelin, increasing hunger levels and raising the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Cardiovascular Strain:
Chronic deprivation is associated with hypertension and heart disease, largely due to elevated stress hormones like cortisol, which keep blood pressure high overnight.

Brain Function:
Insufficient sleep affects cognitive performance, mood regulation, and memory consolidation, while long-term deprivation may increase the risk of neurodegenerative conditions.

Recommended Sleep Hygiene Practices

To mitigate these risks, experts recommend adopting consistent and mindful sleep habits:

• Consistency: Maintain a stable “anchor” sleep block of four to six continuous hours, even during lifestyle changes or events such as Ramadan.

• Environment: Keep bedrooms cool, dark, and quiet. Avoid digital screens at least 30–60 minutes before bedtime to reduce blue light exposure.

• Substance Control: Avoid caffeine and nicotine at least six hours before sleep and limit heavy, sugary, or greasy meals late at night.

With prevention now at the forefront, UAE health authorities are encouraging residents to treat sleep as an essential component of overall well-being rather than a luxury, a shift that reflects the growing recognition of rest as a foundation for long-term public health.