Dubai’s corporate sector is increasing investment in employee well-being, recognising its impact on productivity, retention, and overall business performance.
A report titled Future of Workplace Well-being, which highlights the Dubai Health Authority’s Mental Health Strategy 2031, links poor mental health to higher absenteeism, burnout, and reduced job satisfaction—factors that cost the UAE economy AED 3.9 billion annually in lost productivity.
This trend is prompting businesses to take proactive measures. Additionally, a recent Bupa Global survey revealed that 88 percent of UAE companies plan to increase investment in employee well-being in 2025, underscoring a shift towards prioritising workplace health.
With 93 percent of employers integrating well-being into their business strategies, companies are rolling out comprehensive wellness programmes that focus on physical, mental, social, and financial health.
Expanding corporate wellness initiatives in Dubai companies
Dubai companies are prioritising employee well-being through holistic initiatives, including health screenings, yoga, and gym subsidies for physical wellness; counselling, mental health training, and wellness apps for mental support; networking, mentorship, and inclusion programmes for social well-being; and financial education, among other efforts.
Beyond office-based initiatives, many companies are encouraging participation in community fitness events. Many now sponsor race entries, organise corporate teams, and offer structured training programmes.
Dubai Holding’s sponsorship of the Dubai Marathon and the growing corporate presence at endurance events reflect a broader shift towards fostering team spirit and engagement through physical activity.
ITP Media Group has also demonstrated its commitment to corporate wellness by launching workplace fitness challenges, mental health awareness campaigns, and team-building initiatives, notably through the Spartan Race Middle East.
Organised in partnership with Dubai Sports Council, the first Trifecta of 2025 attracted over 4,000 participants and marked a significant milestone.
Here is how Spartan Race Middle East plays a key role in boosting employee well-being
As part of one of the most dynamic wellness initiatives gaining traction in Dubai’s corporate sector, Spartan Race Middle East offers an inclusive platform for employees of all fitness levels to compete and build resilience in a team environment.
Known for its high-energy obstacle courses, the upcoming ‘Dawn ‘til Dusk’ event on April 19, 2025 at The Arena, Bab Al Shams presents a unique opportunity for corporate teams.
The venue, set within a Middle Eastern colosseum-inspired arena, creates an immersive and competitive atmosphere.
With both day and night race options, participants can choose the time that suits them best. The event offers a variety of race formats, from the 5K Sprint and 10K Super to the Kids’ Race, with distances ranging from 1K to 3K. This is an inclusive event, providing something for everyone.
The Spartan Race Middle East tickets start from AED110 for the Kids’ Race (1K) and go up to AED400 for the Elite Super (10K) race.
Race formats include:
- 1–3km Kids Race (family inclusion)
- 5km Sprint (ideal for beginners)
- 10km Super (for committed racers)
Spartan Race fosters healthy corporate competition, with companies going head-to-head in a test of teamwork and endurance.
By supporting employee participation, businesses encourage a culture of resilience, collaboration, and wellness.
The shift towards corporate wellness in Dubai reflects a broader transformation in workplace culture, where employees are increasingly recognised as a company’s greatest asset. As wellness becomes central to HR and business strategy, we can expect a growing number of innovative, employee-centric initiatives to emerge.
By investing in both the physical and mental well-being of their workforce, forward-thinking businesses are laying the groundwork for long-term success in Dubai’s competitive and dynamic economy.
Sign up for the Spartan Race Middle East ‘Dawn to ‘til Dusk’ event on April 19 NOW!
The inaugural Spartan Race Middle East event also attracted massive sponsorship from leading brands and featured activations at key regional sporting events, setting the stage for even greater collaborations in 2025.
Arabian Business readers can use the promo code ‘SRAB20’ for a special discount on
tickets. Registration for ‘From Dawn ‘til Dusk’ is now open at arabia.spartan.com
For further information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Clair De Valk at [email protected] or 04 444 3423.
Marketing and corporate discount queries can be directed to Ross Moyles at [email protected] or 058 208 6954.
For all other queries, contact Isla Watt at [email protected] or 04 444 3784.
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