In this Exclusive Interview, we discuss how Essa overcome quiet battles with self-image to becoming one of the UAE’s most inspiring voices in fitness and transformation, Essa Al Ansari’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and deep personal growth. Once burdened by obesity and self-doubt, he made a life-changing decision to take control of his health—losing over 90 kilograms and rebuilding not just his body, but his mindset and purpose. Now he sets his sights on a new challenge, competing at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore.
What was the defining moment that inspired you to commit to losing over 90kg and completely transform your life?
It wasn’t one big moment—it was a series of quiet realizations. Waking up each day feeling physically limited, emotionally drained, and disconnected from my true potential. But the defining moment came when I looked at my reflection and didn’t recognize myself—not just physically, but mentally. I knew if I didn’t change, I was going to lose more than just years of my life. That was the moment I chose health, purpose, and self-respect over comfort.
“I stopped chasing a number on the scale and started chasing peace”
As you prepare to represent the UAE at the World Aquatics Championships, what emotions and expectations are driving you into the pool?
Pride, gratitude, and hunger. Pride in how far I’ve come—not just physically, but in character. Gratitude to represent my country on the world stage, and hunger to prove to myself that I belong here. I don’t just carry a flag—I carry every moment of struggle, every early morning, and every small win that built this journey.
How has your experience running successful enterprises shaped the discipline, structure, and mindset you bring to elite swim training?
In business, success demands structure, adaptability, and long-term vision. Training is no different. I approach each session like a business deal: with focus, strategy, and the understanding that results come from consistent execution. Whether it’s closing a deal or completing a set, discipline is what carries you across the finish line.
I want Emiratis to see that your starting point doesn’t define you—your persistence does. Whether it’s sport, health, business, or life—you can rewrite your story.
Between boardroom meetings and family obligations, what strategies did you use to carve out time for consistent workouts and healthy habits?
It starts with non-negotiables. My health became one. I built my days around training, not the other way around. I learned to say no to things that didn’t serve my vision. I also involved my family and team in my journey—they supported me because they saw how serious I was. Discipline didn’t just come from willpower; it came from purpose.
Your weight-loss journey began by changing your body—at what point did you realize the real transformation was occurring in your mind and spirit?
When I stopped chasing a number on the scale and started chasing peace. The real transformation was when I began showing up for myself consistently—not because I hated my old self, but because I believed in a better version. Confidence, patience, and clarity—that was the true weight I had to lose.
Carrying the UAE flag on the global stage, what message of resilience and possibility do you hope to send to fellow Emiratis watching your journey?
That it’s never too late to begin. That struggle can be a bridge, not a wall. I want Emiratis to see that your starting point doesn’t define you—your persistence does. Whether it’s sport, health, business, or life—you can rewrite your story. And when you do, it ripples far beyond just you.
“With faith, discipline, and relentless commitment, you can defy odds.”
In the midst of grueling sets and mental fatigue, which personal mantra or visualization turns the tide and fuels your next stroke?
Earn it. Every stroke is a reminder of where I started and how far I’ve come. I often visualize myself standing at the edge of the pool 8 years ago, unsure, unfit, and full of doubt. That version of me fuels this one. I swim for him and for the man I’m still becoming.
How has your heritage and role within the Al Ansari family influenced your sense of purpose as both a businessman and a national athlete?
I carry a legacy that values hard work, service, and ambition. Representing the Al Ansari name means holding myself to a high standard—not just in business, but in character. That sense of purpose grounds me.
“It reminds me that my journey isn’t just personal—it’s part of something bigger.”
As you touch the wall at your final race in Singapore, what legacy do you hope to leave—and what message about transformation, resilience, and Emirati ambition do you want to echo worldwide?
Transformation is possible at any stage of life. With faith, discipline, and relentless commitment, you can defy odds. I want my story to reflect the spirit of the UAE—ambitious, resilient, and unstoppable. My hope is that someone watching thinks, “If he can do it, maybe I can too. P.S working in the events world is not easy to schedule myself. Being part of Informa as an international company and working within the Aerospace sector. Things are hectic but I manage to stay on track and motivate myself.
Essa gives thanks to ‘Calibre Masters swimming club, who have helped support and develop him.
“I looked at my reflection and didn’t recognize myself—not just physically, but mentally. I knew if I didn’t change, I was going to lose more than just years of my life.“
Essa Al Ansari’s journey is a living testament to the extraordinary power of resilience, discipline, and self-belief. But what makes his story truly remarkable is not just the weight he shed or the achievements he aims for—it’s the transformation within, the battles won in the mind, body, and spirit. As Essa continues to push boundaries and represent more than just himself, his path invites everyone to rethink what’s possible when we choose purpose over comfort and persistence over doubt.
