The second edition of the “Dubai Molathon,” a community sports initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, has successfully attracted tens of thousands of participants from both residents and visitors. In just two months since its inception, the initiative has achieved impressive community engagement, with over 100,000 participants collectively completing more than 220 million steps. This achievement underscores the initiative’s success in promoting sports and physical activity as integral parts of everyday life.
Wide Participation and Expansion
The “Dubai Molathon” has witnessed extensive participation from various government bodies, private sector companies, community organisations, families, senior citizens, people of determination, and visitors alike. Due to this growing interest, the programme has expanded to include new venues. The Dubai International Financial Centre – Avenue Gate joined the initiative on August 1, and Ibn Battuta Mall also became a participant on the 17th of August. This brings the total number of locations involved to over eight, allowing a broader range of community members to engage in the event. Additionally, Dubai International Airport hosted four key events throughout August, enhancing its role in the initiative.
Endorsements from Officials
Dr Sultan Saif Al Neyadi, the Minister of State for Youth Affairs, participated at Dubai Mall, where he explored the event’s activities and joined in the running experiences facilitated by the programme. He commended the “Dubai Molathon” for embodying the visionary leadership’s commitment to fostering a culture of sport as a way of life. He emphasised the importance of encouraging community members towards more active lifestyles, which enhances both physical and mental health and reflects Dubai’s dedication to its citizens’ well-being within its development framework.
Al Neyadi stated, “The broad participation from government entities, the private sector, youth, and families reflects a rising community awareness of the importance of physical activity and its role in improving quality of life. Initiatives like these exemplify community partnership in reinforcing healthy behaviours, providing young people with a motivating environment to realise their potential and cultivate responsibility, positively impacting their health and fostering community cohesion.”
Community Engagement and Healthy Lifestyles
He urged community members to join the “Dubai Molathon” and take advantage of the comprehensive sporting and community experience it offers. He noted that the true impact of the initiative lies in instilling positive practices that transform into sustainable daily habits essential for building a healthier, more vibrant society.
Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, praised the continuous support from the visionary leadership for community initiatives aimed at enhancing public health and promoting physical activity across various societal segments. He reiterated that the second edition of the “Dubai Molathon” exemplifies this strategic approach by converting shopping centres into open and adaptable sports zones, allowing individuals to engage in physical activity safely and conveniently throughout the summer.
Hareb remarked, “The remarkable interest in the initiative, with over 100,000 participants and more than 220 million steps logged, demonstrates Dubai’s success in making sports a lifestyle accessible to all. It also reinforces the emirate’s capability to launch innovative initiatives that blend entertainment, health, and activity, thereby enhancing the quality of life for citizens, residents, and visitors.”
Malls and Indoor Facilities
Majid Al Joker, CEO of Dubai Airports Operations, highlighted that Dubai International Airport provides an ideal environment for indoor walking, noting that movement is an inherent part of airport dynamics. He explained that in August, airport facilities were transformed into walking paths, aligning with the leadership’s vision to integrate health and fitness organically into daily life.
Event Details
The “Dubai Molathon” will continue until September 15, with sessions held daily from 6 AM to 10 AM across several major shopping centres, including Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, Dubai Festival City Mall, City Centre Deira, and Dubai Hills Mall, alongside Avenue Gate in the Dubai International Financial Centre and Ibn Battuta Mall. These centres offer dedicated, secure pathways for walking and running in fully air-conditioned environments, enabling everyone to engage in sports comfortably during the summer months.
Free Participation
Participation in the “Dubai Molathon” is entirely free, with no prior registration required. Interested individuals can simply head to any participating shopping centre and receive a participation wristband that grants exclusive advantages and offers in various stores, cafes, and restaurants. This enriches the participants’ experience and encourages them to continue adopting a healthy, active lifestyle.
• Over 100,000 participants have joined the second edition of the initiative.
Dr Sultan Al Neyadi:
• The true impact of the initiative lies in instilling positive practices that transform into sustainable daily habits, essential for building a healthier, more vibrant community.