From Bytes to Bites: Evaluating Weight Management Apps for Arabic Speakers

Obesity is a growing global health concern, with the Middle East and North Africa region experiencing particularly high prevalence rates due to lifestyle, cultural, and socioeconomic factors. Weight management apps supporting the Arabic language present a unique opportunity to address this issue, leveraging the widespread use of smartphones. This study examines the current landscape of Arabic weight management apps, analyzing their features, functionalities, and adherence to evidence-informed practices. Using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS), a total of 17 apps were evaluated from the Google Play and Apple App stores. Preliminary findings reveal that most apps prioritize aesthetics and usability, while information quality remains notably lower. Furthermore, all apps are commercially affiliated, with no contributions from government, healthcare, or academic entities, raising concerns about their suitability for clinical populations. These findings underscore the need for collaboration with healthcare experts to improve the quality and utility of Arabic weight management apps.