Dubai: Gyms to be star-rated as new system is announced

Evaluation process has begun, and results will be announced in October

by

Nandini Sircar

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Published: Thu 6 Jul 2023, 11:59 AM

Last updated: Thu 6 Jul 2023, 10:49 PM

Fitness centres and gyms in Dubai will be star-rated as per a new system announced on Thursday. The Dubai Sports Council said the first-of-its kind classification system will rate centres with a maximum of five stars in cooperation with “international experts”.

The evaluation process has already started, and the results will be announced in October. A development plan will be shared with centres that receive the lowest ratings.


Evaluation criteria

>> Type of equipment

>> Maintenance


>> Sports facilities

>> Cleanliness

>> Safety

>> Ratio of instructors/members

>> Certification of instructors

>> Personal training services

>> Retention rate and membership racking system

> Group fitness classes

>> Community and anti-doping awareness

>> Physical activity readiness questionnaire

>> Nutrition

>> Parking availability

>> Satisfaction among members and staff

New system receives acclaim

Hailing the new system, gym operators and fitness enthusiasts reiterate that this is an outstanding endeavour by the Dubai Sports Council that showcases their ongoing dedication to prioritise the health and well-being of Dubai residents.

This progressive step is aligned with their continuous efforts to position Dubai's fitness industry at the forefront.

Tarek Mounir. — Supplied photo
Tarek Mounir. — Supplied photo

Tarek Mounir, CEO, Enhance Fitness, said: “It's great to welcome yet another fitness initiative that strives to take the quality of fitness in the UAE to the next level. At Enhance, we always put our customers and their needs first, and we firmly believe that this new rating system perfectly embodies that principle. By implementing such a system, the Dubai Sports Council demonstrates its commitment to ensuring top-notch standards in the fitness industry. This initiative further solidifies our dedication to prioritising our customers and their fitness experience above all else. We are excited to see its impact and how it will enable us to serve our customers and our business even better.”

Afshad Mistry, COO, Snap Fitness UAE, said: “This is an exceptional initiative yet again by the Dubai Sport Council, they have always focused on prioritising health and wellbeing for the residents of Dubai, and this is another step in the right direction. The initiative will cement Dubai’s fitness industry spot on the top not only in the GCC Region but also in the EMEA space. We believe the real benefit will be to fitness enthusiast and gymgoers to choose from facilities based on ratings, services and their own personal preferences. It will also give operators a clear indication to which areas need improvisation to offer the gym-goer a superior fitness experience. We are committed to provide the best to our members and we look forward to support Dubai Sports Council in making this city the fittest city in the region.”

Afshad Mistry.
Afshad Mistry.

People acknowledge that it’s no secret that Dubai has become a fitness hub as the city offers a wide range of fitness facilities, gyms, sports clubs, and outdoor spaces catering to varied interest levels.

The emirate has also seen a significant growth in the fitness industry in recent years, with an increasing number of people embracing an active and healthy lifestyle.

Kermina Hapashy, personal trainer and nutritionist, said: “Dubai is known for its emphasis on health and wellness, and there is a strong fitness culture among residents. Along with this, at the emirate’s core is prioritising its residents and their needs, which has been a foremost objective of the government. I genuinely believe that the introduction of this innovative star rating system is a true reflection of that value. By embracing this system, the Dubai Sports Council showcases its unwavering dedication to upholding exceptional standards within the fitness industry. I am optimistic that everyone will welcome this decision.”

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