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It sounds strange in a country with this much sunshine, but low vitamin D is common in the UAE. Studies here have found that a large share of adults who are tested have levels below the normal range. Many people therefore look at vitamin D supplements in the UAE as a simple way to top up.
The short answer: a daily vitamin D supplement at a standard dose is a sensible option for many adults, children and babies. High doses are a different matter and should only be taken when a doctor advises them after a blood test.
Why vitamin D levels run low in the UAE
Your skin makes vitamin D when it is exposed to sunlight. In the UAE, several everyday habits reduce that exposure:
- Indoor living. Many of us move from an air-conditioned home to an air-conditioned car and office, and spend little time outside.
- Avoiding the heat. For much of the year it is too hot to sit in the sun, so people stay in the shade or go out after dark.
- Clothing and sunscreen. An international expert consensus on rickets lists full body clothing cover as a risk factor. Sunscreen also reduces how much vitamin D the skin makes.
- Darker skin tones. The same consensus lists darker skin as a risk factor.
- Diet. Few foods are naturally rich in vitamin D.
Local research supports this picture. A 2017 community study of adults in four emirates found that about three in four had vitamin D deficiency. Other UAE studies have found similar or higher rates, although many were based on people who were tested in clinics, so they may not reflect everyone.
How much vitamin D do you need?
Advice varies a little between expert bodies. Here is what two international sources say:
| Group | EFSA (Europe) adequate intake | International rickets consensus |
|---|---|---|
| Babies under 1 year | 10 mcg (400 IU), aged 7 to 11 months | 10 mcg (400 IU) from birth |
| Children and adults | 15 mcg (600 IU) | At least 15 mcg (600 IU) |
| Adults over 70 | 15 mcg (600 IU) | At least 15 mcg (600 IU) |
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) also sets daily upper limits: 100 mcg (4,000 IU) for adults and children aged 11 to 17, 50 mcg (2,000 IU) for children aged 1 to 10, 35 mcg (1,400 IU) for babies aged 6 to 12 months, and 25 mcg (1,000 IU) for babies under 6 months. Some people with medical conditions need less, so check with your doctor.
Taking too much vitamin D for a long time can raise calcium levels in the blood. This can harm the bones, kidneys and heart. More is not better.
How to choose vitamin D supplements in the UAE
When you compare vitamin D supplements on a UAE pharmacy shelf, look at these points:
- Form. Most products contain vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Some contain vitamin D2. A vitamin D3 supplement is the most common choice.
- Strength. Check the amount per tablet, softgel, gummy or drop, in IU or mcg. Pick a strength that fits within the official limits above, unless your doctor says otherwise.
- Format. Drops suit babies and people who find tablets hard to swallow. Softgels and tablets suit most adults. Gummies are popular with children, but keep them out of reach as they look like sweets.
- Combinations. Some products combine vitamin D with calcium, vitamin K2 or omega-3. These are not needed by everyone, so ask your pharmacist if one suits you.
- Taking it. Vitamin D is fat-soluble, so many people take it with a meal. Follow the label or ask your pharmacist.
If you take regular medicines, check with a pharmacist first, as some medicines affect how vitamin D works.
What about vitamin D 50,000 IU?
You may see vitamin D 50,000 IU products in the UAE. This is a very high strength, far above the daily upper limit. Doctors sometimes use high doses for a set period to correct a deficiency found on a blood test, then switch to a lower maintenance dose.
High-dose products should only be taken on a doctor's advice. Do not start them on your own or share them with family members. If you think your levels are low, ask your doctor about a blood test first.
Vitamin D drops for babies
Breastfeeding is the recommended first choice for feeding babies. Breast milk is the best food for your baby, but it contains only small amounts of vitamin D. For this reason, international experts advise a daily 10 mcg (400 IU) vitamin D supplement for all babies from birth.
When choosing vitamin D drops for babies in the UAE:
- Choose a product made for infants, with the dose clearly marked per drop or per millilitre.
- Use the dropper or syringe that comes with the product.
- If your baby has some infant formula, ask your pharmacist or doctor whether drops are still needed, as formula already contains vitamin D.
- Speak to your baby's doctor if your baby was born early or has a health condition.
Products to consider at BMG Pharmacy
These products are currently available from BMG Pharmacy:
- Vitabiotics Wellbaby Vitamin D Drops 30ml vitamin D drops for babies and young children.
- Now Liquid Vitamin D-3 400 Iu liquid vitamin D3 drops.
- Puritan's Pride Vitamin D3 Supplement 1000 Iu Sftgel 100s vitamin D3 softgels.
- Now Vitamin D3 2000iu Softgels 120s vitamin D3 softgels.
- Now Vitamin D3 & K2 Capsule 120s capsules combining vitamin D3 and vitamin K2.
- Puritan's Pride Calcium 600 + Vitamin D Tablet 60s tablets combining calcium and vitamin D.
- Mr Tumee Calcium + Vitamin D Gummies 60s chewable calcium and vitamin D gummies.
You can see the full range in our vitamin D category.
When to see a doctor or pharmacist
Speak to a doctor if you have:
- Ongoing bone pain, muscle weakness or aches
- Frequent tiredness that does not improve
- A child with delayed walking, bowed legs or poor growth
- Kidney disease, liver disease or a condition that affects how you absorb food
- High calcium levels, kidney stones or a history of them
- Signs of too much vitamin D, such as feeling sick, vomiting, constipation, being very thirsty, passing urine often or confusion
Also ask before taking vitamin D if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking regular medicines.
Frequently asked questions
Why is vitamin D deficiency common in the UAE when it is so sunny?
Many people spend most of the day indoors, avoid the midday heat and cover their skin when outside. Darker skin also makes vitamin D more slowly. Together, these mean many residents get less sun on their skin than they might expect.
Do I need a vitamin D test before taking a supplement?
You do not usually need a test to take a standard daily dose within the official limits. A test is a good idea if you have symptoms, a medical condition, or are thinking about high-dose products. Your doctor can arrange one.
Can I take vitamin D 50,000 IU without a prescription?
High-strength products like these are meant to be taken under a doctor's guidance, usually for a short period after a blood test. Taking them without advice can push your levels too high. Speak to your doctor first.
Do breastfed babies need vitamin D drops?
Yes. International experts advise a daily 10 mcg (400 IU) supplement from birth, because breast milk contains only small amounts. Breastfeeding remains the recommended first choice. Ask your pharmacist or your baby's doctor which drops to use.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Speak to a BMG pharmacist in any branch or on WhatsApp +971 55 520 8156, or call 800 2647.
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