UAE Stroke Patients Significantly Younger Than Western Counterparts

Feb 21, 2026

82 min

Feb 21, 2026 11:30

UAE stroke patients 10 years younger than in Western countries, studies find

## Stroke Trends in the UAE

Recent studies reveal that stroke patients in the UAE are, on average, a decade younger than those in Western countries. Research conducted by medical universities in Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah highlights a concerning trend of strokes occurring in individuals in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. This is attributed to high rates of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.

## Study Findings

The Ras Al Khaimah study, which analyzed 837 stroke patients from 2020 to 2024, found the average age of stroke patients to be 55.7 years. Nearly half of these cases were between 45 and 65 years old, with a quarter under 45. The Abu Dhabi study focused on younger adults, with a median age of 40 among 51 patients.

## Health Risks and Demographics

Both studies identified a significant burden of cardiometabolic diseases among stroke patients. In Ras Al Khaimah, 75.2% had hypertension and nearly half had diabetes. Men were disproportionately affected, with 76.2% of stroke patients being male. In Abu Dhabi, 86.3% of patients were male, and obesity was a notable concern.

## Stroke Types and Recurrence

Ischaemic strokes were the most common, accounting for 81% of cases in Ras Al Khaimah and 92.2% in Abu Dhabi. Haemorrhagic strokes were more frequent among younger patients. The Ras Al Khaimah study also noted a 15.4% recurrence rate, linked to age and diabetes.

## Implications and Recommendations

The findings suggest a distinct pattern of younger stroke onset in the UAE, emphasizing the need for early screening and prevention strategies. Researchers call for routine checks for hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, especially in younger adults, to mitigate these risks.

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