New mental health self-help app in Dubai will use AI to benefit users

Dubai: Dubai is set to introduce a self-help app, expand anti-burnout sessions, and double psychiatric beds by the end of 2025 as part of its Mental Wealth Strategy, an initiative aimed at transforming mental health care and breaking the stigma surrounding psychological well-being.

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA), under the directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, launched the Mental Wealth Framework in July 2024 to prioritise mental well-being and align with the Dubai Social Agenda 33. The framework focuses on awareness, early prevention, accessibility to mental health services, and innovation.

Speaking to Gulf News at Arab Health 2025, which concluded in Dubai on Thursday, DHA officials revealed the upcoming initiatives under the new strategy.

A major highlight of the strategy is the launch of a self-help app by the end of this year. Designed to enhance mental well-being, the app will use artificial intelligence (AI) to provide daily strategies, tips, techniques, and lifestyle habits that promote mental resilience, said Dr Maryam Thani Al Mheiri, member of the Public Health Protection Department at DHA.

“This is not a diagnostic tool but rather a mental well-being enhancement app offering self-care techniques that can help individuals manage stress and improve their mental wealth,” she said, adding that more details about the app would be divulged later.

Recognising that many individuals seek medical advice for physical ailments without acknowledging underlying mental health issues, DHA has implemented a screening guideline for general practitioners (GPs) and family physicians

Under this initiative, 125 physicians have already been trained to identify mental health red flags in patients consulting for unrelated physical health concerns, such as physical pain or general checkups. More training sessions are planned this year to expand the reach of this early detection system.

“Physicians now follow a structured guideline to ask subtle yet effective questions, like inquiring about mood changes or recent life stresses. If warning signs emerge, patients are referred for further mental health support,” explained Dr Maryam.

Work-related stress and burnout have become pressing concerns in Dubai’s fast-paced corporate environment. To address this, DHA has introduced anti-burnout awareness sessions for employees in both public and private sectors.

“We are actively collaborating with government and private entities to conduct sessions that help employees recognise and prevent burnout. These programmes offer practical strategies for stress management and emotional resilience,” Dr. Maryam revealed.

To meet growing mental health care needs, DHA plans to double the number of psychiatric beds by the end of 2025 in both government and private hospitals.

“This expansion is a key step in strengthening Dubai’s mental health infrastructure, ensuring that individuals receive timely and adequate care,” Dr. Maryam said.

The DHA’s approach focuses on mental wealth rather than “mental health or mental illness” to eliminate stigma and promote a positive, holistic view of psychological well-being.

“This terminology shift makes it easier for people to embrace mental wellness without feeling labelled or judged,” Dr Maryam explained.

DHA has already trained 371 physicians on mental health screening and engaged over 126,000 individuals in 22 in-person campaigns and two large-scale video campaigns, reaching 1.7 million people on social media.

Dr Ramadan Al Blooshi, Director of the Public Health Protection Department at DHA, emphasised the vision behind the Mental Wealth Framework, stating:

“This initiative not only redefines public health but also prioritises mental well-being, aligning with the objective of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 to make Dubai the world’s best destination for living, working, and visiting. With this framework, we aim to cultivate a resilient community, ensuring every individual has the resources and support to thrive.”

Ali Thani Al Mheiri, Consultant at the Public Health Protection Department, added: “The Mental Wealth Framework encompasses several initiatives designed to promote mental health through awareness campaigns, community support programmes, and access to mental health resources. By fostering resilience and providing comprehensive support, we’re not just enhancing individual well-being, but building a stronger, more cohesive community. This framework’s strategic pillars include education, prevention and innovative mental health services. By integrating these elements, we aim to ensure that our community can thrive in a fast-paced world, aligning with Dubai’s vision for a better quality of life for all community members.”

With an inclusive approach targeting high-risk groups including children, women, people of determination, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses, Dubai’s Mental Wealth Strategy is poised to reshape the mental health landscape, ensuring accessible care, early intervention, and widespread awareness across all demographics.