Dubai Mallathon Concludes With Over 40,000 Participants And Guinness World Record Achievement

The Dubai Mallathon, supported by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, concluded on Sunday across nine shopping centres. This citywide event transformed malls into indoor fitness tracks and attracted over 40,000 participants, making it one of Dubai's largest community sporting events.

Launched in early August, the initiative set a Guinness World Record for the most runners in a mall run event. The record was achieved during the closing event at Dubai Hills Mall, with 1,392 participants of various ages and nationalities taking part in the race.

Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi praised the Dubai Mallathon for its record-setting achievement and strong community engagement. He stated that the initiative reflects leadership's commitment to integrating sports into daily life and fostering an environment that supports physical and mental well-being.

"The overwhelming participation of young people, who represented the largest share of participants, reaffirms their pivotal role in the success of community initiatives and their importance in shaping the present and future of our nation. We place great confidence in our youth to uphold community values and champion an active lifestyle in line with the UAE’s long-term vision," said Dr. Al Neyadi.

Khalfan Belhoul from the Dubai Sports Council highlighted that the world record set by the Dubai Mallathon marks a significant milestone. It reinforces Dubai’s position as a global hub for innovative initiatives that create a lasting impact on society.

Belhoul noted that His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed's support was crucial to the initiative's success. The aim is to make sport a part of daily life and foster cohesion across all segments of society.

Event Highlights

The closing event featured a 42-kilometre marathon with 40 runners across various categories. Victor Kiprono claimed first place, followed by Godfrey Segule in second, and Rio Watson — a participant from the People of Determination — in third. Winners were honoured with prizes to support their sporting talents.

Beyond the marathon, there were various community races and activities, including a special women’s race held with the Dubai Sports Council to mark Emirati Women’s Day.

Nationwide Participation

Youth councils from across the UAE participated in the event, reflecting nationwide support for integrating physical activity into daily life. Ministries and government entities like Dubai Police and Roads and Transport Authority also took part.

The initiative ran daily throughout August across nine shopping centres, including The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates. More than 10 kilometres of indoor tracks were available from 7:00 am to 10:00 am.

A Month-Long Success

The month-long programme saw over 40,000 participants logging more than 120 million steps on safe indoor tracks across nine major shopping centres in Dubai. Sponsored by the Ministry of Defence and held with the Dubai Sports Council, it aligned with objectives like 'Year of Community' and Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033.

The initiative aimed to build a healthy community through activities promoting sport as a daily habit and key pillar of quality life.

With inputs from WAM