Weight

UAE Residents Can Win Prizes for Shedding Weight

The UAE is once again hosting its annual weight loss competition, offering participants the chance to win up to 300 dirhams for every kilogram lost. The initiative, called the RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge, is entering its fifth edition and will run for 12 weeks, from February 21 to May 22.

Registration for the competition is now open, and participants can sign up for free. This year, organizers have introduced a new category encouraging families to work together to achieve their weight loss goals.

In the “physical” category, top-performing men and women will receive cash prizes of 300, 200, and 100 dirhams for each kilogram lost. In the “virtual” category, participants can win vacation packages, wellness bundles, dining vouchers, and gym memberships. For the physical category, participants must undergo weigh-ins at RAK Hospital at both the start and end of the competition. Those in the virtual category can have their weigh-ins conducted at a local clinic.

The new “family” category encourages parents, children, and other family members to participate together. Teams must consist of at least three members and can register for either the physical or virtual category. The family with the highest average weight loss will receive vouchers for various lifestyle products.

In the corporate challenge, the winning team is determined by the average weight loss of ten employees. Schools are also invited to participate, with teams of ten or more staff members competing for prizes in a dedicated category.

According to RAK Hospital, nearly 40% of adults and 40% of children in the UAE suffer from obesity, contributing to the rise of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and cancer.

“Our initiative has garnered significant attention not only in the UAE but also internationally, with participants from various countries expressing interest in the competition. We are already planning how to expand the challenge to reach a broader audience,” said Dr. Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director of RAK Hospital.

Last year, over 18,000 people participated in the competition, with winners receiving a total of 40,000 dirhams in cash prizes. One participant, a 31-year-old expatriate, lost over 30 kilograms and won 9,000 dirhams.

The RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge continues to inspire healthier lifestyles while offering exciting rewards, making it a highly anticipated event for residents across the UAE.

Source: Khaleej Times