Mapping Physical Activity Engagement: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Multicultural Metropolis
1
Middlesex University, Hemel Hampstead, United Kingdom
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):A3040
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Physical inactivity and its associated health challenges, such as metabolic syndrome (MetS) and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), are global concerns. Dubai, a rapidly developing emirate in the UAE, faces these issues within its unique, multicultural context. Understanding perceptions of physical activity (PA) across Dubai's diverse population is crucial for addressing these health challenges effectively. Purpose: This study aimed to expand on previous qualitative findings by examining perceptions of PA, lifestyle factors, and cultural influences across various ethnic groups in Dubai, reflecting the emirate's role in tackling a global health issue.
METHODS:
A comprehensive survey was conducted with 410 participants representing Dubai's diverse ethnic backgrounds. The survey explored aspects of PA, health perceptions, and cultural impacts using validated questionnaires. Preliminary data analysis included descriptive statistics and content analysis, followed by comprehensive statistical analysis to provide in-depth insights.
RESULTS:
The study revealed significant variability and non-normal distribution in MET minutes (METmin), with ANOVA results showing significant differences across groups (p < .001) and moderate effect sizes. Higher PA levels correlated strongly with the belief that exercise prevents NCDs. Ethnicity significantly influenced sitting time patterns, with Arabs sitting the longest and Asians and South Asians the shortest. These findings highlight the need for tailored interventions to promote PA and reduce sedentary behaviour.
CONCLUSIONS:
The findings emphasize how Dubai's multicultural population experiences and responds to global physical inactivity challenges, underscoring the importance of culturally informed approaches to health promotion. Practical Implications: These insights can inform the development of strategies to promote PA in Dubai that are both globally relevant and locally tailored, serving as a model for other multicultural urban centres worldwide facing similar challenges.
Physical inactivity and its associated health challenges, such as metabolic syndrome (MetS) and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), are global concerns. Dubai, a rapidly developing emirate in the UAE, faces these issues within its unique, multicultural context. Understanding perceptions of physical activity (PA) across Dubai's diverse population is crucial for addressing these health challenges effectively. Purpose: This study aimed to expand on previous qualitative findings by examining perceptions of PA, lifestyle factors, and cultural influences across various ethnic groups in Dubai, reflecting the emirate's role in tackling a global health issue.
METHODS:
A comprehensive survey was conducted with 410 participants representing Dubai's diverse ethnic backgrounds. The survey explored aspects of PA, health perceptions, and cultural impacts using validated questionnaires. Preliminary data analysis included descriptive statistics and content analysis, followed by comprehensive statistical analysis to provide in-depth insights.
RESULTS:
The study revealed significant variability and non-normal distribution in MET minutes (METmin), with ANOVA results showing significant differences across groups (p < .001) and moderate effect sizes. Higher PA levels correlated strongly with the belief that exercise prevents NCDs. Ethnicity significantly influenced sitting time patterns, with Arabs sitting the longest and Asians and South Asians the shortest. These findings highlight the need for tailored interventions to promote PA and reduce sedentary behaviour.
CONCLUSIONS:
The findings emphasize how Dubai's multicultural population experiences and responds to global physical inactivity challenges, underscoring the importance of culturally informed approaches to health promotion. Practical Implications: These insights can inform the development of strategies to promote PA in Dubai that are both globally relevant and locally tailored, serving as a model for other multicultural urban centres worldwide facing similar challenges.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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