Heaviest Registered Male Participant Weighs 291 Kgs, Female Contestant 197 Kgs
28 February, 2025; Ras Al Khaimah, UAE – The 5th edition of the RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge 2025 (RBWLC25), a flagship health initiative by RAK Hospital in association with the Ministry of Health & Prevention Ras Al Khaimah, has received an overwhelming response from the community. A record-breaking 24,189 participants have registered across various categories, making it the highest-ever participation in the challenge's history. Since its inception, the competition has grown steadily, with this year's registrations reflecting a remarkable 33% increase from last year's 18,000 participants. This surge in participation highlights the community's growing commitment to prioritizing health and wellness.
The 12-week challenge, culminating on May 22, 2025, has drawn participants from across the UAE, with Ras Al Khaimah leading in registrations at 10,842 participants (49%). Dubai follows with 7,067 (31%), Sharjah with 1,621 (8%), Abu Dhabi with 1,535 (7%), and other Emirates contributing 1,124 participants (5%). The gender distribution remains fairly balanced, with 54% male and 46% female participants.
Notably, 80% of all registrants are below the age of 40, highlighting the challenge's increasing appeal among the younger generation.
The challenge's impact is underscored by alarming obesity statistics. A staggering 80% of participants are classified as obese. The heaviest male participant weighs 291 kg, while the heaviest female participant weighs 197 kg. Additionally, a screening of 3,000 school children revealed that 70% were overweight, emphasizing the urgent need for lifestyle intervention and making the challenge more relevant than ever.
'We are thrilled to see such strong participation from all segments of the community,' said Dr. Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director of RAK Hospital. 'Each year, more individuals are taking charge of their health, recognizing that obesity is not just a personal challenge but a major public health concern. Our findings reveal a worrying trend—80% of participants under 40 fall into the overweight or obese category, significantly increasing their risk of chronic diseases that can shorten lifespan and reduce quality of life. Even more concerning, 70% of children registered under the school category are also overweight, signaling a national health crisis that demands immediate action.
If we can instill healthy habits from an early age, we have the power to change the future. A focus on balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and overall wellness will not only improve individual health but also ease the growing burden of chronic diseases on society. This challenge is about more than just losing weight—it's about fostering a culture of lifelong well-being, ensuring that future generations grow up healthier, stronger, and more informed.'
RBWLC25 goes beyond by offering comprehensive expert guidance to all participants. Weekly interactive webinars with health and wellness specialists provide tailored advice on weight loss, nutrition, and exercise strategies. The program emphasizes sustainable lifestyle changes to ensure long-term health benefits rather than just short-term weight loss.
To keep participants motivated, RBWLC25 is offering attractive prizes across multiple categories. Physical participants who weighed in at RAK Hospital compete for cash prizes of AED 300, AED 200, and AED 100 per kilogram lost for the top three male and female contestants. Virtual participants, who weighed in at clinics across the country, are eligible for staycations, health packages, dining vouchers, and gym memberships. Corporate teams vie for the coveted Corporate Weight Loss Trophy, while school teams have already begun their weigh-ins, with more expected to join.
A new Family Category introduced in 2025 edition encourages families to embark on this journey together. With over 100 families already registered, they stand a chance to win various lifestyle vouchers.
Over the years, RBWLC has transformed thousands of lives, empowering individuals to take charge of their well-being. With participation soaring and enthusiasm at an all-time high, RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge 2025 is poised to make an even greater impact. For more information about the challenge and upcoming educative webinar sessions, visit www.rakweightlosschallenge.com.
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