UAE's sugar tax amendment lauded as key move against obesity, diabetes

Al Etihad

22-07-2025

MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)
The UAE's updated sugar tax is a step in the right direction toward curbing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and improving public health, according to healthcare professionals.
The Ministry of Finance and the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) recently announced a significant amendment to the excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs).
Starting 2026, a new tiered volumetric model will link the tax directly to a drink's sugar content per 100ml, marking a shift from the previous system based solely on product classification.
The policy could have a significant impact on public health, given the recorded obesity data in the country, said Archana Baju, Head of Department and Dietitian at Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi.
In a recent interview with Aletihad, she cited data from the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), which showed that 27.8% of UAE adults were classified as obese in 2024.
She pointed to sugar-sweetened beverages as a key factor behind this statistic. 'These drinks are frequent contributors to excess calorie intake, weight gain, insulin resistance, cardiovascular risk, and dental decay,' she said.
'Evidence states that a price increase typically reduces consumption, particularly among youth and low-income groups. Over time, decreased intake of SSBs contributes to lower obesity rates, reduced diabetes prevalence, and lowers cardiovascular disease burden.'
Dr. Mervat Hussin, Endocrinology Consultant at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, explained how regularly consuming high-sugar beverages directly contributes to metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity.
'These beverages deliver large amounts of simple sugars, especially fructose and glucose, which are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. The result is a rapid rise in blood sugar and insulin levels, followed by a crash — creating a cycle of cravings and overeating,' she told Aletihad.
'Since liquid sugar doesn't promote a sense of fullness the way solid food does, it's easy to overconsume calories without realising it.'
Dr. Hussin highlighted that fructose adds a unique burden because it's mainly processed in the liver, where it promotes fat buildup (leading to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease); raises blood triglycerides levels; and hampers insulin's effectiveness.
Over time, these effects drive insulin resistance, which is a key factor in the development of Type 2 diabetes, according to Dr. Hussin.
She agreed that taxing sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is a proven public health approach to discourage consumption by making these drinks less appealing.
'Countries that have implemented these measures have already reported a drop in sugary drink consumption. Over time, this helps reduce obesity rates and lowers the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.'
Guide to Cutting Sugar
On managing Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance, Dr. Hussin noted the power of small, consistent lifestyle changes.
'Reducing added sugar, even without full dietary overhauls, often results in better blood sugar control, weight loss, and improved energy,' she explained. 'Patients with Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance often experience lower fasting glucose levels and HbA1c readings within just a few months of adjusting their sugar intake.'
However, Dr. Hussin advised that reducing sugar intake should be done gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms —such as cravings, fatigue, headaches, and irritability — linked to sugar's impact on the brain's reward system.
To support patients through the transition of reducing sugar intake, Dr. Hussin recommended staying hydrated; eating balanced meals rich in protein, healthy fats, and fibre; and phasing sugar out slowly rather than stopping abruptly.
She also advised replacing refined sugars with natural options such as berries, dates, or apples, and encourages regular physical activity, which helps improve both mood and insulin sensitivity.
'These strategies help reduce withdrawal symptoms and increase the likelihood of long-term success. Patients often report feeling more energetic and more in control of their health,' Dr. Hussin said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and American Heart Association (AHA) recommend limiting added sugars to no more than six teaspoons (25g) per day for women and nine teaspoons (36g) per day for men.
Baju explained that a typical 330ml can of cola contains about 35g of sugar (equivalent to nine teaspoons), which means that one serving nearly meets or exceeds the recommended daily limit.
She suggested healthier alternatives, such as infused water, sparkling water with fruit, tender coconut water, fresh fruit and vegetable juices without added sugar, low-fat milk, laban, yoghurt, or plant-based drinks.
'These choices support hydration without contributing to excess energy intake, metabolic stress or long-term disease risk.'