The Dubai Mallathon, launched in early August, wrapped up on Sunday, drawing over 40,000 runners across nine shopping centers.
Announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s Crown Prince, the initiative turned malls into indoor fitness tracks, establishing itself as one of the emirate’s largest community sporting events.
This month-long event set a Guinness World Record for the most participants in a mall-run event, adding to Dubai’s growing list of global achievements. The record was set at the closing event at Dubai Hills Mall, with 1,392 participants of all ages and nationalities.
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UAE’s Long-term Vision
Dr Sultan Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, praised the Dubai Mallathon’s record-breaking turnout and community engagement.
He noted that the initiative reflects leadership’s commitment to integrating sports into daily life and promoting community well-being.
“The extensive involvement of young people, who formed the majority of participants, highlights their crucial role in community initiatives and their impact on shaping our nation’s future. We trust our youth to uphold community values and promote an active lifestyle in line with the UAE’s long-term vision,” said Dr Al Neyadi.
He added: “Sport is a key platform for young people to find inspiration and self-expression. It offers a positive outlet for energy and strengthens physical and mental well-being, reinforcing their societal role.”
Milestone Achievement
Khalfan Belhoul, Vice-President of the Dubai Sports Council, stated that the world record by the Dubai Mallathon marks a significant milestone, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global hub for innovative and impactful initiatives.
He emphasized Sheikh Hamdan’s support and guidance as crucial to the initiative’s success, aiming to integrate sport into daily life and foster cohesion and engagement across society.
Belhoul said, “At the Dubai Sports Council, we are proud of this achievement and remain committed to supporting such initiatives, aligning with leadership’s vision for a healthier, happier society. We strive to reinforce Dubai’s role as a global capital for community sports and a premier destination for events blending competitiveness with community spirit, enhancing quality of life.”
40,000 Participants
The Dubai Mallathon concluded after 31 days, engaging over 40,000 participants of various ages and nationalities. Collectively, they logged over 120 million steps on safe, air-conditioned indoor tracks across nine major shopping centers in Dubai.
The closing event featured a 42-kilometer marathon with 40 runners in different categories. Victor Kiprono took first place, Godfrey Segule came second, and Rio Watson, a participant from the People of Determination, finished third. Winners received prizes to honor their achievements and support their sporting talents.
In addition to the marathon, the initiative included various community races and activities, including a special women’s race in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council for Emirati Women’s Day.
The Mallathon aligned with the ‘Year of Community’, Dubai Social Agenda 33, and the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033, focusing on building a healthy, cohesive community through initiatives promoting sport as a daily habit and a key quality of life pillar.
