How Obesity Treatments in Dubai Can Help You Achieve Long-Term Weight Loss Success

Learn about effective obesity treatment Dubai options, including lifestyle changes, medications, bariatric surgery, costs, and expected results.

Jun 28, 2025 - 14:02
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How Obesity Treatments in Dubai Can Help You Achieve Long-Term Weight Loss Success

Obesity treatment Dubai is increasingly becoming an important part of healthcare in the UAE, where rising rates of obesity are a significant public health issue. Obesity not only affects physical appearance but also increases the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Thankfully, there are various treatments available in Dubai that can help individuals achieve long-term weight loss success. This article will discuss the causes of obesity, treatment options, the costs involved, and what you can expect before and after treatment.

What is Obesity?

Obesity is a medical condition characterized by excess body fat that increases the risk of serious health problems. It is typically measured using the Body Mass Index (BMI), where a BMI of 30 or higher indicates obesity. Obesity treatment Dubai focuses on helping individuals reduce excess weight through a combination of dietary changes, physical activity, and medical interventions.

In Dubai, obesity rates have been steadily rising, largely due to sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy eating habits, and easy access to high-calorie foods. Managing and treating obesity requires a multi-faceted approach that includes lifestyle modifications, behavioral changes, and sometimes medical or surgical interventions.

Causes of Obesity in Dubai

Obesity can be caused by a variety of factors, both genetic and environmental. Some common causes of obesity Dubai include:

1. Poor Diet

Consuming high-calorie foods, sugary beverages, and processed snacks is a major contributor to weight gain. Many people in Dubai have easy access to fast food, which can lead to unhealthy eating habits.

2. Lack of Physical Activity

A sedentary lifestyle is a significant risk factor for obesity. Many people in Dubai work in office settings or spend a lot of time indoors, leading to insufficient physical activity.

3. Genetics

Genetic factors can influence how the body stores fat and how metabolism functions, which can make it more difficult for some people to maintain a healthy weight.

4. Hormonal Imbalances

Conditions like hypothyroidism and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can disrupt hormones that regulate metabolism and appetite, making weight loss more challenging.

5. Psychological Factors

Emotional eating, stress, depression, and other psychological factors can also contribute to weight gain. These factors can make it difficult for individuals to stick to a weight loss plan.

Obesity Treatment Options in Dubai

There are various treatments available for obesity Dubai, ranging from lifestyle changes and behavioral therapies to medical and surgical interventions. The best treatment option will depend on the individual's specific needs and medical condition.

1. Dietary and Lifestyle Changes

The foundation of obesity treatment Dubai is a balanced, calorie-controlled diet and regular physical activity. A nutritionist or dietitian can help you create a personalized meal plan that emphasizes whole foods, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats while minimizing processed foods and sugar.

  • Cost in Dubai: A consultation with a dietitian typically costs between AED 150 and AED 500 per session, depending on the clinic.

  • Before and After: Before treatment, individuals may experience weight gain, fatigue, and other health issues like high cholesterol or blood pressure. After implementing lifestyle changes, individuals often experience gradual weight loss, improved energy, and better overall health.

2. Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy is often part of obesity treatment Dubai, especially for those who struggle with emotional eating or food-related habits. A therapist can help identify triggers for overeating and teach coping strategies to manage cravings and emotional responses to food.

  • Cost in Dubai: Behavioral therapy can range from AED 300 to AED 800 per session, depending on the provider.

  • Before and After: Before treatment, emotional eating or unhealthy food habits may cause significant weight gain. After therapy, patients can better manage their eating behaviors, leading to more consistent weight loss.

3. Medications for Obesity

For individuals who have not been able to achieve weight loss through diet and exercise alone, prescription medications may be used to help with weight loss. These medications can suppress appetite, block fat absorption, or help regulate metabolism.

Common weight loss medications include:

  • Orlistat: Reduces fat absorption in the intestines.

  • Phentermine: Suppresses appetite.

  • Liraglutide: Increases feelings of fullness.

  • Cost in Dubai: Prescription weight loss medications typically cost between AED 200 and AED 1,000 per month, depending on the medication prescribed.

4. Bariatric Surgery (Weight Loss Surgery)

For individuals with severe obesity (BMI of 40 or higher) or those who have not had success with other treatments, bariatric surgery may be recommended. Bariatric surgery options include:

  • Gastric Bypass: A procedure that reduces the stomach size and reroutes the digestive system.

  • Gastric Sleeve Surgery: A procedure that removes a large portion of the stomach to reduce its size.

  • Gastric Banding: A procedure that places a band around the stomach to limit food intake.

  • Cost in Dubai: Bariatric surgery can cost between AED 15,000 and AED 40,000, depending on the type of surgery and hospital.

  • Before and After: Before surgery, patients may struggle with severe obesity-related health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. After surgery, patients typically experience significant weight loss, improved health, and a reduction in obesity-related diseases.

5. Non-Surgical Weight Loss Procedures

Some non-surgical treatments can also help with weight loss, such as liposuction, cryolipolysis (fat freezing), and laser therapy. These treatments are typically used for body contouring rather than significant weight loss but can help improve appearance after weight loss.

  • Cost in Dubai: Non-surgical procedures like cryolipolysis or laser therapy typically range from AED 2,000 to AED 10,000 per session, depending on the clinic and the number of sessions required.

Cost of Obesity Treatment in Dubai

The cost of obesity treatment Dubai varies widely based on the treatment chosen. Here’s a general breakdown of costs:

  • Dietary consultations: AED 150 to AED 500 per session.

  • Behavioral therapy: AED 300 to AED 800 per session.

  • Medications: AED 200 to AED 1,000 per month.

  • Bariatric surgery: AED 15,000 to AED 40,000 for weight loss surgery.

  • Non-surgical treatments: AED 2,000 to AED 10,000 per session for procedures like fat freezing.

Many clinics in Dubai offer packages for comprehensive obesity treatments, which may include diet planning, behavioral therapy, and consultations with a medical doctor.

Before and After Results of Obesity Treatment

Before Treatment:

Before beginning treatment, individuals with obesity may experience a range of health issues, including diabetes, hypertension, joint pain, sleep apnea, and low self-esteem. Their weight may be affecting their physical and emotional well-being, making it difficult to lead an active and fulfilling life.

After Treatment:

After completing obesity treatment Dubai, individuals often experience significant weight loss, improved energy levels, better mental health, and a reduction in obesity-related conditions. For those undergoing bariatric surgery, the results can be dramatic, with many individuals losing a substantial amount of weight in the first year following surgery.

Regular follow-up visits are essential for monitoring progress, ensuring continued weight loss, and addressing any health concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the best treatments for obesity in Dubai?

The best treatments for obesity Dubai include lifestyle changes, dietary interventions, behavioral therapy, medications, and bariatric surgery. The treatment plan will depend on the severity of the obesity and individual health conditions.

2. How much weight can I lose with bariatric surgery?

Patients can lose 50% to 70% of their excess weight within the first 12 to 18 months after bariatric surgery, depending on the procedure and commitment to lifestyle changes.

3. Can lifestyle changes alone help with obesity?

Lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and behavioral therapy can help manage obesity. However, in some cases, additional treatments like medications or surgery may be needed for significant weight loss.

4. Is obesity treatment covered by insurance in Dubai?

Many health insurance plans in Dubai cover obesity treatment, especially for medically necessary procedures like bariatric surgery. It’s important to verify your coverage before undergoing treatment.

5. What are the risks of obesity surgery?

As with any surgery, bariatric surgery carries risks, including infection, blood clots, and digestive complications. However, the benefits of weight loss and improved health often outweigh the risks for individuals with severe obesity.

Conclusion

Managing and treating obesity Dubai is essential for improving health and quality of life. From lifestyle changes to medications and bariatric surgery, various treatment options can help individuals achieve long-term weight loss success. It is important to consult with healthcare providers to determine the best approach based on your specific needs and health goals. Whether through diet, therapy, or surgery, with the right treatment plan, you can achieve lasting results and improve your overall health and well-being.

Dr. Barbara Dr. Barbara Karin Vela, a Specialist Family Physician in Dubai, offers patient-cantered care in chronic diseases, women's health, and preventive medicine.