​In the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.), urbanization and the rapid growth of a diverse and multi-cultural population have led to significant changes in lifestyle patterns and behaviors, contributing to the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

An estimated 20% of expatriates and 25% of Emiratis have diabetes, and 75% of those with diabetes do not have their diabetes under control.

In the U.A.E, Project HOPE focuses on strengthening the capacity of health professionals, building their knowledge and skills so they can provide better care and support to their patients with diabetes.

In 2014, in partnership with AstraZeneca, Project HOPE launched the Diabetes Empowerment and Education Program (DEEP). The program aims to improve the well-being of people in Dubai and Sharjah living with or at risk of developing diabetes.

Through DEEP, HOPE is implementing our innovative, game-based curriculum, “5 Steps to Self-Care”, to enhance patient knowledge of diabetes and improve their self-management capacity.  Originally implemented in Mexico, the curriculum was culturally adapted for the  Gulf region — including specialized guidance for Ramadan.

The model utilizes a train-the-trainer approach, enabling trained “5 Steps” facilitators to carry on training others in a sustainable manner long after our project ends.