Sheikh Hamdan at The Dubai Run: 5 Highlights From The City’s Biggest Fitness Event
His Highness swiftly led runners to the finish line, motivating all those who participated in it this weekend
On November 26, a massive 226,000 runners gathered at the crack of dawn to participate in the Dubai Run, the final showdown of this year’s 30×30 Fitness Challenge.
The journey commenced at the Dubai World Trade Centre metro station, offering a picturesque view of the city’s most renowned landmarks such as the Museum of the Future, Burj Khalifa, and the Emirates Towers. Designed with diverse levels of challenge, the run catered to participants of all ages and abilities, ensuring a rewarding and enjoyable experience for athletes, children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.
Leading the pack and setting the pace was the Crown Prince of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, who conquered the 10 km challenge in the company of family and friends. His inspiring presence motivated participants to push their limits and successfully complete the challenge.
Bazaar Arabia highlights our favourite moments from this year’s Dubai Run.
Sheikh Hamdan at The Dubai Fun Run: 5 Highlights From The City’s Biggest Fitness Event
Astronauts stride alongside the Sheikh
Emirati astronauts Sultan Al Neyadi and Hazza al Mansouri introduced His Highness to NASA’s Expedition 69 team which recently returned from the International Space Station. Russian cosmonauts Sergey Prokopyev and Andrey Fedyaev, and American astronauts Warren Hoburg and Steve Bowen were among those that completed the run with His Highness.
Sultan Al Neyadi carried the Dubai Fitness Challenge flag to the ISS, and presented the flag to Sheikh Hamdan upon his return. The flag now stands as a symbol of the city’s dedication to health and fitness.
An orange sea floods Sheikh Zayed Road
This year’s run witnessed a tremendous surge in participation, drawing runners from various Emirates. Surpassing the previous year’s count of 193,000 participants, Sheikh Zayed Road was a bustling sea of runners, stretching from the front to the back before the race even began.
The group ends the run at the Museum of the Future
After completing the strenuous run, Sheikh Hamdan stopped over at the Museum of the Future, enjoying dynamic views of the city and celebrating the completion of his run.
From running to dancing
The vibrant atmosphere was further ignited during the race with lively music and commentary, creating a spirited sense of camaraderie among the participants.
All barriers lifted
Running alongside the Crown Prince was Team AngelWolf, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting inclusivity and a healthy lifestyle for People of Determination. The team, a familiar presence at various sporting events across the city, brought their passion and enthusiasm to this year’s run.
Notably, the event welcomed a marginalized group that often faces barriers to participating in fitness activities. With the thoughtful provision of wheelchairs and prams, the run extended an open invitation to everyone, concluding the challenge in an inspiring and inclusive manner.
Lead image courtesy of Instagram/@faz3