Majority of UAE companies plan to boost well-being investments in coming year, Bupa Global survey finds

Dean Pollard, General Manager, Bupa Global Middle East and Asia. Supplied Image

A new survey by leading international healthcare management company, Bupa Global, reveals that 88 per cent of UAE companies are planning to increase their investment in employee well-being programmes over the next year, driven by a clear Return on Wellbeing Investment (ROWI).

Well-being initiatives, shown to significantly boost employee productivity, engagement, and retention, are becoming crucial drivers of organisational success. A notable 94 per cent of senior leaders have reported that well-being programmes enhance productivity, underscoring the direct impact of health investments on overall business performance.

Dean Pollard, General Manager of Bupa Global Middle East and Asia, said: "Our specially commissioned Return on Wellbeing Investment (ROWI) survey is a clear indicator that prioritising employee health is not only beneficial for individuals but also a strategic move for businesses.

"When companies invest in holistic well-being initiatives, they experience tangible health returns — both in terms of reduced employee absenteeism and improved engagement and performance. Well-being programmes are no longer a luxury but a necessary investment to foster a healthier, more resilient workforce, ultimately driving business success."

ROI of well-being initiatives: higher productivity, reduces absenteeism, and lower turnover rates

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The survey offers compelling evidence that well-being programmes provide substantial returns on well-being investment. More than half (53 per cent) of the senior leaders surveyed reported significant improvements in productivity after adopting these initiatives. Additionally, nearly half (49 per cent) of the employers observed greater employee engagement, and 36 per cent noted a reduction in absenteeism.

These findings demonstrate that well-being programmes do more than just support personal health — they directly influence business performance. In fact, nearly a third (29 per cent) of organisations reported lower employee turnover rates, illustrating that well-being is not only about workforce retention but also a tool for sustained organisational success.

With well-being now seen as a critical element of business success, 93 per cent of employers consider it a core part of their strategy, reflecting the growing importance of health-driven initiatives in fostering competitiveness and organisational performance.

Rising commitment to well-being: nearly nine in ten UAE employers plan to increase budgets

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While the benefits of well-being initiatives are clear, challenges remain in their implementation. Nearly half (45 per cent) of senior decision-makers cited low employee participation as a barrier, and 43 per cent identified budget constraints as a limiting factor obstacle.

Looking ahead, the commitment to well-being is clear, as nearly nine in ten employers (88 per cent) plan to increase their investment in these programmes over the next year. Notably, more than one in five (22 per cent) organisations anticipate raising their well-being budgets by over 15 per cent, reflecting a strong drive to foster healthier, more engaged workforces and recognising the long-term value this brings.

Well-being programmes enhance employee satisfaction and work-life balance

From the employees’ perspective, well-being programmes make a noticeable difference. An impressive two-thirds (66 per cent) of employees expressed satisfaction with their company’s well-being offerings, particularly favouring flexible work policies, health workshops, and maternity and parental leave programmes. These initiatives not only address employees’ needs but also contribute to a more health-conscious and supportive work culture.

As a result of these efforts, a majority (60 per cent) of employees reported improvements in their work-life balance, while nearly half (47 per cent) noted better overall health. Initiatives such as health screenings and wellness workshops were seen to reduce health risks and promote a balanced work environment. Employees also saw direct benefits, with 41 per cent reporting increased motivation. Meanwhile, over a third (36 per cent) experienced reduced stress, highlighting the far-reaching advantages of these initiatives.

Three in four UAE employees prioritise expanded insurance benefits

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As the conversation around workplace well-being evolves, employees are no longer viewing these programmes as perks but as essential components of their overall job satisfaction and health. This shift in expectations has placed greater pressure on employers to offer more comprehensive support.

A large majority (89 per cent) of employees are prioritising expanded insurance benefits, reflecting a demand for greater security and access to care. Additionally, 88 per cent advocate for access to more well-being tools including frequent health screenings, and over four in five (85 per cent) express a strong desire for improved mental health resources, resources — a clear indication that holistic health, including mental well-being, has become a priority.

Flexible working arrangements also remain a top priority, with 85 per cent of employees seeking these policies as part of their well-being packages. The emphasis on flexibility reflects the modern workforce’s desire for balance and autonomy, enabling employees to better manage their professional and personal lives.

93% of UAE employees prioritise well-being initiatives as part of their job search

As the focus on employee well-being becomes a central part of workplace culture, employees are increasingly seeking organisations that prioritise their health and overall job satisfaction. Companies that offer attractive well-being programmes are setting themselves apart in a competitive job market.

In fact, well-being initiatives are influencing job-seeking behaviour, with 93 per cent of employees considering them an important element when evaluating potential employers. This highlights the critical importance for companies to invest in well-being initiatives to attract and retain top talent.

Mr Pollard said: "The future of employee well-being is one of growth and innovation. Businesses are realising that investing in the health and well-being of their workforce is a key driver of organisational performance and engagement. At Bupa, we're advancing this through platforms like Blua, which offers convenient access to virtual doctor appointments, digital health programmes, and remote healthcare services. Our Return on Wellbeing Investment (ROWI) survey emphasises that such modern healthcare solutions are not just desirable but essential, highlighting their crucial role in enhancing employee well-being and driving business success.”

Bupa Global and Sukoon Insurance have partnered to offer premium international health insurance plans tailored for the UAE. Sukoon, as the insurer, brings regional expertise, while Bupa Global, as the international administrator, provides seamless access to global healthcare services. This collaboration ensures UAE customers receive extensive, high-quality coverage, combining local knowledge with world-class healthcare solutions.

In partnership with Sukoon, Bupa Global is further exploring the findings of the Return on Well-being Investment (ROWI) survey during the HRSE (HR Summit & Expo) at the Dubai World Trade Centre on October 23 and 24, 2024. As proud sponsors of HRSE, they are sharing key insights into the impact of comprehensive well-being programmes on employee.