Senior fitness programs offered free by local council: Abu Dhabi’s active ageing revolution

Every Monday morning, a group of nearly 40 seniors gathers at Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street’s Family Park for a session of gentle aerobics and stretching. These group exercise meetings, backed by the Abu Dhabi Municipality, are part of a growing slate of free fitness programs designed especially for residents over the age of 60.

Active ageing gets official support

The launch of these complimentary exercise initiatives comes at a time when the city’s population of over-60s is projected to increase by 20% within the next five years, according to the Department of Community Development Abu Dhabi. Officials say the aim is to support long-term wellbeing and social engagement for older residents—a goal that ties directly into Abu Dhabi’s broader community health plan.

Among the most popular sites is the Corniche East Beach, where an early morning walking club runs three days a week from Gate 3. Ms. Shaikha Al Badi, the municipal coordinator for the Corniche Wellness Network, reports that participation has doubled since Ramadan, with regulars coming from Khalidiya and Al Zahiyah for instructor-led warm-ups and low-impact circuits. Meanwhile, in Al Mushrif’s Umm Al Emarat Park, volunteers from the Golden Years Health Collective run biweekly chair yoga classes every Tuesday and Thursday at 8:30am, drawing up to 25 participants even during the summer heat, thanks to shaded garden pavilions.

Evidence and access: strong local uptake

According to municipal data shared at last month’s Senior Wellness Week, over 2,500 unique participants have attended a council-sponsored group fitness event since January 2026. Attendance is free of charge for Emirati citizens and all Abu Dhabi residents holding a valid Emirates ID. Registration can be completed online or onsite at participating venues such as Khalifa Park, Al Bahia Park, and Zayed Sports City. There is no equipment required and sessions are adapted for a range of physical abilities. The Department of Community Development also notes that regular involvement in group fitness is associated with a 40% reduction in reported mobility limitations among Abu Dhabi’s older adults.

For seniors keen to join, the next community schedule is posted on the official municipality website and social channels. While the high summer brings morning start times forward to 7:00am, autumn will see new pilates and aqua aerobics offerings at Al Bateen Beach and Al Wahda Mall Fitness Studio. For further guidance, residents are encouraged to consult their family physician before beginning any new exercise program.

With city support and tailored routines, Abu Dhabi’s council-backed fitness groups are making active ageing more accessible—and social—for thousands of older residents each week.