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Emirates 24|7 reported on October 24 2026 that psychiatrists in the UAE have detailed 10 reasons why men often avoid seeking mental health treatment. Social stigma masculine stereotypes and fear of appearing weak stand out as central explanations according to the doctors quoted in the publication. The article titled UAE doctors: Men are avoiding mental health treatment and these 10 reasons explain why stressed that mental health challenges can arise at any life stage and affect individuals regardless of gender or age.
The Emirates 24|7 piece highlighted how these perceptions deter men from accessing care even as pressures from work family and society contribute to psychological strain. Doctors consulted for the report pointed to the need for open discussions to shift long-held views that equate vulnerability with weakness. Such barriers have persisted despite growing recognition of mental health needs across the population the newspaper reported.
Abu Dhabi has expanded its mental health infrastructure to 143 facilities while introducing a 24/7 hotline at 800-Sakina Emirates 24|7 figures show. The developments form part of efforts to make support more accessible and encourage earlier intervention among residents facing emotional difficulties. The publication presented the infrastructure growth as a response to identified gaps in treatment uptake particularly among men.
A 2025 AXA Global Healthcare study reported by Khaleej Times found that only 56 percent of men in the UAE would seek support within a week for persistent low mood. By comparison 89 percent said they would act immediately on a lost bank card and 84 percent on a vehicle warning light according to the same study. The AXA data illustrates how men in the UAE tend to prioritise practical or technical issues over mental health concerns.
Consultant psychiatrist Dr Amir Javaid at Burjeel Medical City told Khaleej Times that men are taught to equate strength with silence and resilience with isolation. The observation aligns with patterns described in the Emirates 24|7 report where traditional norms discourage men from acknowledging psychological challenges. Similar accounts have appeared in other regional coverage including findings that men often delay care until conditions intensify.
The Cigna Healthcare International Health Study from 2025 as detailed by The National placed the share of UAE men reporting strong mental health at 68 percent higher than the figure for women and above the global average. Despite the self-reported levels the reluctance to seek formal treatment remains a noted concern among specialists. Psychiatrists continue to advocate for reduced stigma to align perceived wellbeing with proactive care-seeking behaviours the various reports indicated.
