Perceptions, Expectations, and Acceptability of Digital Physical Activity Programs Among Adults with Chronic Diseases in Saudi Arabia: A Qualitative Descriptive Study.

BACKGROUND/

OBJECTIVES

Digital programs may extend physical activity support beyond clinic visits, but qualitative evidence on how adults with chronic diseases in Saudi Arabia perceive them is limited. This study explored perceptions, expectations, and acceptability among such adults who had continued using the physical activity function of Sehhaty, the Ministry of Health's national health application, which served as the reference point.

METHODS

A COREQ-reported qualitative descriptive study was conducted in chronic disease units at three tertiary centres in Riyadh between December 2025 and February 2026. Semi-structured interviews were held with a purposive sample of 14 adults (38-72 years; 8 women, 6 men) with type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or combinations, all of whom had used the program independently for 4-16 weeks. Recruitment and analysis proceeded iteratively across two stages (18 approached). Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Four themes were developed: reframed expectations of what a technology-based presence could offer; a gap between perceived usefulness and everyday usability; the dual motivational and discouraging potential of numerical feedback; and the expectation that programs fit Islamic practice, family involvement, and climate constraints.

CONCLUSIONS

For these participants, acceptability depended on ease of use, natural Arabic wording, reminders and suggestions that fit prayer times, family routines, and summer heat, and feedback that recognised health circumstances. Because all participants were sustained users, the findings do not estimate acceptability in the wider population.