As the New Year approaches, fitness centers across Dubai are observing a notable rise in membership interest. Residents are keen to shed holiday indulgences and turn their fitness aspirations into reality.
Leading gym chains such as GymNation expect a 20-30% increase in memberships this January, reflecting a global trend of renewed commitment to health and fitness at the start of the year.
“January is traditionally one of the busiest months for gym registrations, not just in the UAE but worldwide,” said William Rasmussen-Dean, UAE Country Director for GymNation. “New Year’s resolutions drive a 20% surge in memberships compared to average months. However, the momentum really picks up in the latter half of January, as people ease back into their routines.”
This January fitness boom ties into a broader wellness movement that’s reshaping Dubai’s fitness industry, currently valued at over $700 million and expected to surpass $1 billion in the near future, according to Ken Research.
Dubai’s focus on health is further supported by initiatives like the Dubai Fitness Challenge, which encourages residents to commit to 30 minutes of daily activity for 30 days. Such campaigns have embedded fitness as a key component of the city’s lifestyle.
A New Year Fitness Surge
The enthusiasm for fitness is mirrored in the activity at gyms across the city. Residents are heading to fitness centers, determined to kick off their New Year resolutions with a bang.
Sylvie, a Jumeirah resident, shared her goals: “After indulging over the holidays, I’m focused on getting back in shape. This year, I want to make fitness a lifestyle, not just a seasonal goal.”
Venkatesh, 42, admitted he struggled to maintain his fitness resolution beyond March last year but plans to take a different approach this year. “I’ve set smaller, more realistic targets and mapped out a plan to stick to them throughout the year,” he said.
Fitness experts confirm the seasonal spike in memberships. Naved Ali, a Dubai-based trainer, noted, “In January, gyms often sell 10-15% of their annual memberships, with some reporting a 50% jump in sign-ups compared to other months. The challenge, however, is keeping this momentum alive past the first quarter.”
Renowned personal fitness trainer Maik Wiedenbach, widely regarded as the best personal trainer in Dubai, emphasized the importance of customized fitness plans to achieve long-term results. “A well-structured fitness program tailored to individual needs can make all the difference,” he said. “Sustainability and consistency should always be the focus, rather than extreme, short-term efforts.”
Gyms like Binous Gym in Al Quoz have also seen a rise in enrolments. Rizzy, a representative from Binous Gym, shared, “Late December and January are peak times for us. Promotions during this period encourage many to embark on their fitness journeys.”
Similarly, Veo by Emaar Hospitality Group rolled out a New Year campaign earlier, offering an extra month of access for members who signed up by December 8.
Expert Advice for Lasting Change
For those aiming to stay committed, fitness professionals recommend starting with manageable goals. Jassi, a physical trainer in Business Bay, advised, “Transformation doesn’t happen overnight. Start small, with 20-30 minutes of daily activity, and build consistency over time.”
Research highlights the challenges of maintaining resolutions. Although 50-60% of adults set fitness or weight loss as their primary goal, up to 65% drop off within three to six months. Only 20% remain active by mid-year.
Maik Wiedenbach offered this advice for sustaining motivation: “Accountability is key. Working with a trainer or finding a fitness community can help keep you on track and make the process enjoyable.”