Physical activity policies in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries: A qualitative study with document analysis
Abstract Overview
Background: The Gulf states have some of the lowest activity and some of the highest obesity levels in the world. Government policies are crucial for promoting physical activity but are under researched in this region.
Purpose: To analyse physical activity policies in terms of structures, formulation, implementation, and evaluation in the six GCC member countries (Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain).
Methods: We systematically searched the websites of the Ministries of Health, Education, Sport, Transport, Tourism, and Municipal Affairs of the GCC countries until February 2024. Experts from Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Bahrain were consulted to identify unpublished documents. Desk research questions from the HEPA Policy Audit Tool were used. Analytical themes were based on Howlett’s policy cycle framework, categorising policy-making into six stages.
Results: Comparative analysis revealed centralised governance across GCC nations, except for the UAE’s federal monarchy system. Policy formulation typically involves collaboration among health, sports, and education ministries, though responsibilities vary. Sedentary behaviour reduction policies are lacking. Policy implementation lacks clear funding, especially for marginalised groups like individuals with disabilities. Evaluation lacks economic assessment.
Conclusions: Our study revealed a dearth of policies targeting physical inactivity within the GCC. Enhancing transparency, inclusivity, and evaluation mechanisms are essential for fostering policy effectiveness.
Practical implications: Our study provides insights for policymakers in the Gulf region, particularly in developing policies aimed at addressing sedentary behaviour and improving the evaluation framework for physical activity policies. Additionally, it serves as a foundation for researchers to identify and address gaps in future policy analysis, contributing to the advancement of effective strategies for promoting physical activity.
Funding: This study was funded by the Ministry of Health of Saudi Arabia, and the University of Technology Sydney, Australia.
Additional Authors
Name: Ali Alzahrani
Affiliation: School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney
Presenting Author: no
Name: Peter Gelius
Affiliation: Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Quartier UNIL-Centre, Bâtiment Synathlon, University of Lausanne
Presenting Author: no
Name: Anne Grunseit
Affiliation: School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney
Presenting Author: no
Name: Nikki Percival
Affiliation: School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney
Presenting Author: no
Name: Adrian Bauman
Affiliation: Prevention Research Collaboration, School of Public Health, University of Sydney
Presenting Author: no
Name: Klaus Gebel
Affiliation: School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney
Presenting Author: yes
Information
Study Type: Other
Subtheme: Other (please specify)
Subtheme other Title: Analysis of physical activity policies
Population Group: Not Applicable
Setting: Not Applicable
Submitting Author
Klaus Gebel
Senior Lecturer
University of Technology Sydney
Australia
