Win Dh20,000 in RAK Hospital’s Diabetes Challenge 2025
Free registration open online until August 31 deadline
RAS AL KHAIMAH – One of the UAE’s most impactful health initiatives is returning.
RAK Hospital, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) – Ras Al Khaimah, has officially opened registrations for the fourth edition of the RAK Diabetes Challenge (RAKDC 2025). The three-month nationwide wellness campaign focuses on tackling diabetes through lifestyle transformation, education, and structured community support.
Over the last three editions, the challenge has transformed thousands of lives by reducing critical diabetes biomarkers such as HbA1c and BMI. The 2025 edition will continue to highlight how diet and regular exercise can play a vital role not only in managing but also in reversing type-2 diabetes. Registration is free and open online until August 31.
RAK Diabetes Challenge
Diabetes remains a serious public health challenge in the UAE and beyond. In 2023, the country ranked 15th globally on the diabetes index, with nearly 25% of adults affected. Alarmingly, many cases are diagnosed incidentally during routine medical checks, and large numbers remain undiagnosed. Untreated, diabetes can lead to complications such as diabetic retinopathy, coronary artery disease, renal failure, and neuropathy.
“With the UAE ranking among the top 20 countries for diabetes prevalence, the RAK Diabetes Challenge is more than just an awareness drive — it is a nationwide call to action,” said Dr Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director of RAK Hospital. “In previous editions, we have seen people lose weight, lower their HbA1c levels, and even reverse their diabetic condition. Last year, over 5,000 people took part. Average HbA1c levels dropped from 7.49% to 5.07%, bringing many from diabetic to non-diabetic ranges. That is transformation.”
On average, participants lose 4 to 5 kilograms over the three months through simple lifestyle changes, without any alteration to their medication. Dr Siddiqui noted that the structured and medically supervised format sets the initiative apart, combining science with motivation and community support.
Who can join?
The 2025 challenge runs from August 29 to November 13 and is open to all UAE residents aged 18 and above with an HbA1c of 5.7 or higher. Participants can register online before August 31.
There are two participation categories:
- Physical Category: Participants will undergo free BMI and HbA1c tests along with a lifestyle evaluation at the RAK Hospital Tent Facility from August 29 to 31 between 9 AM and 5 PM.
- Virtual Category: Participants can undergo tests at certified clinics across the UAE at their own expense, upload the results online, and complete a digital lifestyle evaluation.
RAK Hospital OPD patients and corporate clients are automatically registered and will receive support from hospital staff. All participants must complete online registration to join.
Rewards and recognition
Participants will be evaluated at both the start and end of the challenge. Winners will be chosen by a panel of medical experts based on BMI improvement, HbA1c reduction, and lifestyle scores.
Prizes include:
- Physical Category: Dh20,000 in total cash prizes. First place male and female winners will each receive Dh5,000, second place Dh3,000, and third place Dh2,000.
- Virtual Category: Swiss health check vouchers, 5-star hotel staycations, gym memberships, and wellness hampers.
- Top 10 Most Improved: Swiss health checks and exclusive gifts.
- Top 50 Participants: Certificates of achievement.
- Corporate Wellness Trophy: Awarded to the best-performing team.
Support along the journey
Participants will gain access to weekly health webinars, expert-led workshops, and guidance from endocrinologists, diabetologists, nutritionists, and fitness specialists from RAK Hospital.
“Our mission is to move people from illness to wellness through sustainable lifestyle change,” said Prof Adrian Kennedy, Chief Wellness Officer at Arabian Wellness & Lifestyle Management, RAK Hospital’s wellness division. “This is about changing lives and strengthening the health of the nation.”
RAKDC 2025 is open to diabetics, pre-diabetics, and anyone wishing to take control of their health. Walk-in registration will also be available from August 29 to 31 at the RAK Hospital Tent Facility. The challenge concludes with an awards ceremony on November 13, 2025.