Health professionals in the UAE issue advisories over potential hazards associated with the growing use of novel weight loss medications among locals.
In the vibrant cityscape of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a new wave of weight loss technologies is transforming the lives of residents. One such technology, GLP-1 weight watchers, is gaining significant traction, as evidenced by more than 1,600 people who have signed up for these treatments through virtual healthcare platforms in recent months.
Among the success stories is Mehreen Zubair, a Pakistani expat who embarked on her weight-loss journey in 2025. Weighing 86kg and feeling stuck after years of failed diets, Mehreen turned to DarDoc for supervised GLP-1 treatment and was prescribed Mounjaro in February 2025.
Mehreen's first significant achievement came just a few months later, when she lost her first 5 kilos. This was a significant milestone for her as she had not lost more than 3 kilos in 6 years. Mehreen attributes the slow, supervised pace of the DarDoc program for making the weight watchers process sustainable.
Mehreen's health has improved significantly since then. PCOS symptoms eased, cholesterol lowered, fatty liver treated, and energy levels restored - all positive indicators of her successful weight loss journey. Mehreen has also gained around 3kg of muscle while losing fat, due to her conscious nutrition choices.
Another success story comes from Nawal Jamal, a Jordanian podcaster. Struggling with her weight and a PCOS diagnosis, Nawal turned to Mounjaro. With a strict high-protein diet prescribed by her doctor, Nawal reached her pre-marriage weight, marking a significant step in her weight watchers journey.
Doctors are reporting a surge in demand for GLP-1 weight watchers injections. Companies like DarDoc and GluCare are at the forefront of this movement. DarDoc integrates fitness and diet coaching alongside prescriptions to counter the loss of muscle mass, ensuring a holistic approach to weight watchers. GluCare monitors patients using wearable devices and digital coaching tools, providing personalised support throughout the weight loss journey.
However, it's important to note that not all telemedicine services in the UAE offer GLP-1 weight watchers injections. Vaidam Health, for instance, provides telemedicine services but does not specifically mention GLP-1 injections in their offerings.
As the focus shifts from shedding kilos to preserving lean mass, doctors like Dr Yousef Said, medical director at GluCare, are aiming to ensure that weight loss is sustainable and healthy. For many individuals like Mehreen and Nawal, the journey towards a healthier, happier self is just beginning, thanks to these transformative weight watchers technologies.
