Despite enjoying sunshine throughout the year, more than 80 per cent of residents in the UAE are estimated to suffer from vitamin D deficiency, turning what seems like a paradox into a serious public health concern. Medical experts say the condition often goes unnoticed, as symptoms such as fatigue, body pain, muscle weakness and low mood are commonly ignored or attributed to lifestyle stress.
On average, vitamin D levels among residents are reported to be 15–20 ng/mL, far below the recommended normal level of 30 ng/mL or higher. Vitamin D plays a vital role in maintaining bone strength, aiding calcium absorption, supporting muscle function, immunity and hormonal balance.
Doctors point out that the primary source of vitamin D is direct sunlight, which enables the body to naturally produce the vitamin through the skin. However, factors such as avoiding outdoor exposure due to extreme heat, wearing full-cover clothing, regular use of sunscreen, night-shift work and poor intake of vitamin D-rich foods contribute significantly to deficiency in the UAE.
Natural dietary sources of vitamin D are largely non-vegetarian, including liver, egg yolk, butter, cheese and oily fish. Fortified foods such as milk, margarine and infant foods also provide supplemental vitamin D. Studies have also shown that breast milk contains measurable amounts of vitamin D sulphate.
Prolonged deficiency can lead to serious conditions such as rickets in children, characterised by weak and deformed bones, and osteomalacia in adults, particularly among women during pregnancy and breastfeeding, causing bone pain and fragility.
A simple blood test can detect vitamin D levels, and testing facilities are widely available across UAE clinics and hospitals. Treatment depends on deficiency severity and may include daily supplements with calcium, weekly high-dose vitamin D, or injections, strictly under medical supervision. Doctors caution against self-medication, as excessive intake can result in kidney-related complications.
Health experts recommend safe sun exposure during early morning or late afternoon for 10–20 minutes, annual vitamin D screening, and special attention for children, pregnant women and the elderly.
Written by
Dr Rishana Noufal
General Practitioner
Platinum Healthcare
Al Qusais
