Dubai residents Amrith Raj and Spin Ghatai Muhammad Yaqoob have emerged as champions in the fifth edition of the RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge, organised by RAK Hospital in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) – Ras Al Khaimah.
Raj, 31, lost 45.7 kg to win the top male prize, while Yaqoob, 42, lost 25 kg to take the top spot in the female category. Both say the 12-week challenge helped transform their lives.
Life-changing transformation
“Joining the RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge was a turning point in my life. At the start, even walking was difficult. I cut out sugar and carbs and began walking every day after work, even if just for 15 to 30 minutes. Slowly, I saw changes. Now, I feel lighter, more energetic, and free from the breathlessness I used to experience,” said Raj.
Yaqoob, also based in Dubai, shared a similar experience: “I was hesitant at first, but joining this challenge turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. I lost 25 kilograms. I started with a simple diet and gym visits, then shifted to intermittent fasting and OMAD during Ramadan. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that 80% of weight loss is about diet. Today, I feel light, active, and genuinely happy.”
Thousands take part
The 2025 edition saw a record 24,289 participants from across the UAE. Ras Al Khaimah alone contributed nearly half of the total turnout. The challenge attracted a near-even gender split and included individuals, couples, corporate teams, and school staff.
A new family category welcomed over 100 husband-and-wife teams. The average participant lost 8.8 kg during the 12-week programme, with many reporting major lifestyle changes.
Winners across categories
Top winners in the male physical category were:
1st: Amrith Raj, Dubai – 45.7 kg (Dhs 13,800)
2nd: Muhammad Nadeem Saleem Khan, Ajman – 38 kg (Dhs 7,600)
3rd: Zubair Chaudhry, Dubai – 34.6 kg (Dhs 3,400)
Female physical category winners included:
1st: Spin Ghatai Muhammad Yaqoob, Dubai – 25 kg (Dhs 7,500)
2nd: Afra Ali Rashed Bakheet, RAK – 22.4 kg (Dhs 4,400)
3rd: Amani Bayan Kashwar, Abu Dhabi – 21.2 kg (Dhs 2,100)
In the virtual category, Shashi Rajan Valluvar (Dubai) and Saira Bano (Sharjah) claimed the top spots. Steven Rock won the Corporate Champions Trophy, and Sharjah Ambassador School topped the school staff competition.
A growing wellness movement
Commenting on the challenge, Dr. Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director of RAK Hospital, said: “This year’s record participation is a testament to the UAE’s rising awareness and commitment to health. This is no longer just a competition—it’s a community-driven health movement.”
The initiative was supported by sponsors including Kcal (Gold Sponsor), Dr. Nutrition, Rixos, Cove Rotana, Fitness Time, and Intercontinental Hotels, who contributed prizes such as healthy meals, staycations, gym memberships, and health packages.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
