Late nights, constant screen use and round-the-clock connectivity have quietly reshaped daily routines in Abu Dhabi. But health experts are now warning that sleep, long treated as a personal lifestyle choice, is emerging as a public health concern, with growing evidence linking poor sleep to mental health challenges, chronic disease and reduced quality of life across the community.

Health authorities say the scale of sleep deprivation means it can no longer be viewed as an individual issue. Instead, it is increasingly being addressed as a population-wide health challenge that affects productivity, well-being, and long-term health outcomes.

Recent national data highlights the extent of the problem. A 2024 study found that nearly 30 per cent of adults in the UAE are sleep deprived, with those affected more likely to report frequent headaches, low mood and symptoms associated with depression. Among younger populations, particularly university students, research has consistently shown poor sleep quality, irregular bedtimes and high levels of daytime fatigue, often linked to late-night screen use and inconsistent routines.

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Health experts warn that the consequences of poor sleep extend far beyond feeling tired. Disrupted sleep patterns have been linked to anxiety, obesity, weakened immunity and reduced performance at work and in education. Prolonged screen exposure, irregular work schedules and modern lifestyle pressures are among the key contributors to poor sleep in urban environments.

From a public health perspective, the concern goes beyond individual exhaustion. Sleep deprivation influences how people think, eat, move and cope with stress behaviours that play a critical role in long-term health.

“Sleep is one of the core pillars of preventive health,” said Dr Shereen Khamis Al Mazrouei, Department Manager for Health Promotion at the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre. “When sleep is disrupted over long periods, it affects mental wellbeing, metabolic health and overall quality of life.”

Dr Shereen Khamis Al Mazrouei, Department Manager for Health Promotion at the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre

She added that treating sleep as a secondary issue is no longer effective. “Ongoing poor sleep starts to shape daily behavior's from food choices to physical activity levels and stress management and that has clear implications for public health.”

Global evidence, local impact

International research reinforces these concerns. Long-term studies have shown that consistently sleeping five hours or less per night significantly increases the risk of developing chronic conditions later in life, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and depression. Public health agencies worldwide continue to link insufficient sleep with rising rates of obesity and mental health disorders.

Experts also point to a ripple effect caused by poor sleep. Insufficient rest has been associated with lower physical activity, increased reliance on convenience and energy-dense foods, and heightened stress levels creating cycles that can be difficult to reverse without early awareness and support.

“We often see sleep at the center of a wider pattern,” Dr Al Mazrouei said. “When sleep is compromised, other healthy behavior's tend to decline as well.”

A shift from treatment to prevention

Traditionally, sleep problems have only been addressed once they begin to interfere with daily functioning. However, Abu Dhabi’s health strategy is increasingly shifting towards prevention, with a focus on encouraging healthier routines before medical intervention becomes necessary.

This approach recognizes that sleep health is shaped not only by biology, but also by daily habits and environments including digital behaviour, nutrition, physical activity and stress management.

“Improving sleep outcomes requires more than advice,” Dr Al Mazrouei said. “People need practical, accessible experiences that help them understand their own habits and make small, sustainable changes.”

Health authorities say this prevention-led approach aligns with broader efforts to reduce the burden of chronic disease and improve quality of life across the population.

A shared responsibility

Supporting healthier sleep is increasingly being framed as a collective effort. Healthcare providers, food and nutrition companies, sports organizations and urban planners all play a role in shaping environments that support healthier routines.

Across Abu Dhabi, organizations are embedding sleep into wider wellbeing and prevention programmers. Healthcare providers are integrating sleep assessments into early health management, while nutrition-focused initiatives continue to reinforce the role of balanced diets and hydration in overall wellbeing. Community sports infrastructure is also expanding access to physical activity, which experts say is closely linked to improved sleep quality.

“Sleep does not exist in isolation,” Dr Al Mazrouei said. “It is closely connected to how people live their everyday lives.”

Bringing sleep into everyday life

These messages have been brought directly into communities through initiatives such as the Festival of Health, Abu Dhabi’s public platform designed to translate health science into practical, everyday experiences.

Held across multiple locations throughout the emirate including Hudayriyat Island, Madinat Zayed Park in Al Dhafra and Al Jahili Park in Al Ain the festival offered interactive workshops and expert-led discussions exploring how sleep connects with mental wellbeing, movement and nutrition.

Residents and families were encouraged to reflect on their own routines and take simple steps to improve sleep as part of a healthier lifestyle.

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