Anwer Ali (R) receives his cash prize during the ceremony in Ras Al Khaimah on Wednesday.

The air was filled with excitement and anticipation as the winners of the highly anticipated RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge 2024 were unveiled on Wednesday.

Hosted by RAK Hospital as part of its annual CSR initiative, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Prevention Ras Al Khaimah, the contest motivated, educated, and guided participants on their transformative weight loss journey, culminating in a celebration of their achievements.

Anwer Ali, a 31-year-old Pakistani national, emerged victorious in the Physical Category Male, clinching Dhs9,000 after losing 30.2kg. Indian national Akbar Shahid and Egyptian expatriate Haitham Elsafy Mohamed Elkady secured the 2nd and 3rd positions, shedding 22.6kg and 21.1kg, respectively, and were awarded Dhs4,400 and Dhs2,100 in cash.

In the Physical Category Female, Muhsina Kalisam, a Dubai resident and Indian expatriate, claimed the top spot by shedding 23.3kg, winning Dhs6,900. The 2nd and 3rd runners-up, Indian nationals Shahana Roksana Yazeer and Amila Abbas Mangattu, received Dhs3,800 and Dhs1,800 for dropping 19.4kg and 18.3kg, respectively.

The 4th edition of this 12-week nationwide campaign saw an impressive participation of 18,000 participants from across the UAE, with over half hailing from Ras Al Khaimah.

The awards ceremony held at RAK Hospital honored a total of 24 individual winners, one corporate champion, and two school champions (Teacher and Staff category, and Children BMI). On average, each participant shed 9kg, marking a significant milestone in their journey to improved health and well-being.

Cash prizes awaited the top 3 winners in both the Male and Female physical categories, while winners in the virtual category, as well as percentage weight-loss champions, received luxurious 5-star staycations, gym memberships, Swiss executive health check and Genetic Testing vouchers, and other attractive prizes.

Khalid Abdulla Mohammed Al Shehhi, Director of the Representative Office, Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) – Ras Al Khaimah, graced the occasion as the chief guest, adding to the grandeur of the ceremony.

Dr Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director of RAK Hospital, congratulated the winners during the ceremony, stating, “Congratulations to all the winners of the RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge 2024. Your dedication and commitment to improving your health have been truly inspiring. Your achievements not only reflect your personal triumph but also serve as a testament to the power of perseverance and healthy lifestyle choices. We at RAK Hospital are immensely proud to have been part of your journey, and we remain committed to supporting our community in their pursuit of better health and wellness.”

Adding further, Dr Siddiqui stated, “This year, we have also introduced a new category involving schools, through which we aim to instill the importance of good health from an early age, ensuring that future generations are equipped with the knowledge and understanding of leading healthy lifestyles. Through such initiatives, we strive to create a lasting impact on the well-being of our community."

The Corporate Team Challenge Category witnessed RAK College of Dental Sciences emerge as the champions. In the Schools Categories, The Ideal English School excelled, securing victory in both the School Staff and Child BMI Categories.