Left-Handedness and Its Cognitive, Behavioural, and Social Correlates in the UAE Population

Handedness reflects functional brain asymmetry, with approximately 90% of the global population being right-handed and 10% left-handed. Although handedness has been widely studied worldwide, limited data exist on how left-handedness relates to personal, behavioural, and social factors within specific cultural contexts such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This study aimed to investigate associations between left-handedness and various demographic, cognitive, health, educational, and social parameters within the UAE population.

A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed using convenience sampling. A total of 500 UAE national students from Higher Colleges of Technology participated. Data were collected using culturally tailored questionnaire assessing demographics, handedness, cognitive factors, health and lifestyle, social interactions, and educational and occupational experiences. Statistical analyses were conducted to explore associations between handedness and the studied variables.

Left-handedness prevalence was 13%, with higher representation among males. No significant hereditary or cognitive associations were identified. However, left-handed participants reported greater ergonomic, social, and health-related challenges, including migraines, musculoskeletal issues, and mental health concerns, particularly among females. Cultural stigma was reported by a minority, alongside difficulties in right-hand–oriented environments.

This study provides region-specific insights into left-handedness in the UAE, underscoring the need for inclusive educational, occupational, and health practices to support left-handed individuals.

Joelle Makoukji Kiklikian is a highly accomplished and multidisciplinary professional with extensive expertise in neurogenetics. Her academic journey includes a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Neurogenetics from the American University of Beirut. She also earned a Ph.D. in Neurosciences - Molecular and Cell Biology - from the Faculty of Medicine at Paris Descartes University, with high honours. Recently, Joelle earned an MBA from University Isabel I in Barcelona. Her research has focused on the molecular and cell biology of neurodegenerative diseases. Joelle has an extensive list of publications in renowned scientific journals. In her teaching career, Joelle has held various positions, including Assistant Professor and Course Team Leader at the Faculty of Health Sciences at Higher Colleges of Technology in UAE. Recently, she was awarded the Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) for her commitment to teaching, learning and student experience, aligned with the UK Professional Standards Framework.