Clinical cut-off values and factors associated with birth weight in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Purpose – While extreme birth weight has been studied in many countries, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a country characterised by multi-nationality, there is no such data. Thus, this study aims to identify the optimal cut-off values and factors associated with low birth weight (LBW) and high birth weight (HBW) in Abu Dhabi, the UAE. Design/methodology/approach – This study is a part of a large multi-centre cross-sectional study. The particular research project aimed to improve maternal and early child health. Seven healthcare centres participated in the study from different areas (urban, suburban and rural areas) of Abu Dhabi. Data included all Emirati and non-Emirati mothers who visited the healthcare centres as a follow-up. Findings – The study established new birth weight cut-offs for Abu Dhabi: LBW as <2, 500 g and (HBW) as =3, 700 g, differing from WHO’s HBW cut-off of 4, 000 g. Among 1, 710 newborns, 9.8% were LBW and 11.1% HBW by new cut-offs, compared to 4% HBW by WHO standards (p < 0.001). Female gender, first-born status and caesarean delivery were significantly associated with LBW, while no factors correlated with HBW. These findings highlight the need to update clinical guidelines in the UAE to improve newborn care and policy decisions. Research limitations/implications – As a cross-sectional study, causality between associated factors and birth weight cannot be established. In addition, findings may not be generalisable to all UAE regions or rural populations. Future longitudinal studies are needed to validate these cut-offs and explore gestational age and maternal health influences. Including broader national data would enhance external validity and guide national-scale policy updates. Practical implications – Using localised cut-off values improves the accuracy of neonatal risk assessment and resource allocation. Healthcare providers can offer targeted follow-up care for infants at risk, while policymakers can update guidelines to reflect actual population needs. These changes may reduce neonatal complications and healthcare costs by promoting early interventions based on relevant thresholds. Social implications – This study provides essential data to support tailored postnatal care policies in the UAE. Identifying accurate national cut-off values for birth weight enhances newborn classification and reduces the risk of overlooking high-risk infants. By updating outdated global benchmarks, the findings promote equity in neonatal health and guide healthcare professionals in addressing UAE-specific needs, ultimately improving maternal and child health outcomes. Originality/value – This is the first study in the UAE to define localised clinical cut-off values for both low and high birth weights. It challenges the universal application of WHO standards by offering data-driven, population-specific benchmarks. The findings contribute novel insights into birth weight categorisation and its determinants, enriching the literature in a multicultural Middle Eastern context and informing better regional health planning.