Wellness Tourism to Define Abu Dhabi in 2025
Abu Dhabi is cementing its place at the forefront of the wellness tourism movement as it prepares to host the 19th Global Wellness Summit (GWS) from November 18–21, 2025. Set against the luxurious backdrop of Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, the event represents a significant milestone for Abu Dhabi wellness tourism, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and investors for high-impact conversations.
The summit, supported by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, Abu Dhabi Investment Gate (ADIG), and Shura Global Consultancy, will introduce collaborative platforms designed to reshape the global wellness economy from the heart of the UAE.
UAE Wellness Tourism Set to Hit $12.5 Billion by 2030
As the largest wellness economy in the Middle East, the UAE is driving market growth with projected revenues of USD 12.5 billion by 2030, up from USD 5.1 billion in 2022. Abu Dhabi’s strategic hosting of GWS is aligned with this national growth trajectory, enabling the capital to further attract wellness-oriented travelers and businesses.
Innovation and Investment Take Center Stage in Abu Dhabi
With a curated Innovation Lab featuring breakthrough startups and wellness tech, the summit will spotlight Abu Dhabi's rising status as a launchpad for next-gen wellness solutions. Among the major trends to be showcased are preventive healthcare models, integrative wellness programs, and the use of artificial intelligence in personal health management.
SHA Emirates, set to launch in 2026 on an island near Abu Dhabi, exemplifies this innovation. Marketed as the world’s first “healthy living island,” it will integrate AI-powered health diagnostics, medical-grade wellness therapies, and nature-inspired design principles.
Fitness Franchises and Real Estate Fuel Wellness Infrastructure
The wellness landscape in Abu Dhabi is booming, and fitness corporations are rushing to create a foothold. Notably, Lift Brands has reacquired its Snap Fitness master franchise in the UAE, with plans to launch new locations within Abu Dhabi. The city is also a focal point for women-centric wellness hubs like Kintsugi Space, as well as clinical anchors like Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, which are transforming healthcare access with holistic wellness integration.
Real estate is another pillar of growth. Projects such as Saadiyat Grove are blending lifestyle and wellness, introducing communities that offer both residential luxury and health-forward living.
A Defining Chapter for Abu Dhabi Wellness Tourism
As Abu Dhabi prepares to host one of the wellness industry’s most high-profile events, its ambition is clear: to lead through innovation, collaboration, and visionary urban planning. The 2025 summit is more than a conference—it’s a global showcase of what’s possible when health, hospitality, and innovation align.
Also Read: Fahid Island: AED 40B Mega Project Set to Fuel Abu Dhabi Wellness Tourism Surge
