The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Sports Council have announced that registration is now open for the world’s largest free fun run, Dubai Run.

Back for its fifth edition as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC), more than 200,000 people are expected to line up for an unforgettable run along the iconic Sheikh Zayed Road and downtown Dubai on Sunday, November 26, the last weekend of DFC 2023.

Runners and fitness enthusiasts from all walks of life, regardless of age or skill level, can now register and secure their spot at this epic citywide celebration of health, fitness and community. The free run is presented by Mai Dubai and supported by Sun & Sand Sports.

A record number of 193,000 runners, joggers and walkers took part in Dubai Run last year, and 2023 will be bigger than ever. Participants will be able to choose between two different routes, both starting on Sheikh Zayed Road. Perfect for families and runners of all levels, the 5km Downtown Family Route will begin near the Museum of the Future and take participants to iconic Dubai landmarks including the Dubai Opera, Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa.

Alternatively, more experienced runners can take the 10km Sheikh Zayed Road route, which runs from Sheikh Zayed Road to the Dubai Canal before returning and concluding at Al Mustaqbal Street, near the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC). .

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, said: “Dubai Run, presented by Mai Dubai, embodies the spirit of the Dubai Fitness Challenge and I invite everyone, regardless of age and physical ability, to experience this unique opportunity while we join together as a vibrant community with a shared vision of a healthier and more active future.

Last year, the event saw a record number of participants and the numbers continue to grow. “I look forward to seeing more people take part in the excitement of our city’s iconic free race.”

Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, said: “Dubai Run stands out as one of the most accepted events within the Dubai Fitness Challenge programme. This event magnificently transforms the world-famous Sheikh Zayed Road into the largest athletics track in the world, breaking records every year in terms of number of participants, diversity of nationalities and ages. We eagerly anticipate this year’s edition of Dubai Run serving as the culmination of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, solidifying Dubai’s status as one of the most active cities in the world. We extend a warm invitation to all members of our community to join Dubai Run along with thousands of participants. “Together, let us create unforgettable memories, capture vibrant and active moments and celebrate the cultural and urban landmarks that make Sheikh Zayed Road truly unique.”

Abraham Kah, CEO of Mai Dubai, said: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Dubai Fitness Challenge as their official water partner, aligning with our commitment to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. At Mai Dubai, we believe that every person can lead a healthy and fit life. This initiative serves as inspiration for people of all ages and abilities to make conscious decisions about their health. We also encourage everyone to take part in the Dubai Run Challenge and the 30 days of 30-minute activities featuring a wide range of city-wide events, free training sessions, exciting tournaments, challenges and wellness-focused entertainment. We anticipate that this year’s events will witness great success with increased participation, further highlighting the importance of fitness.”

Mohamed Bodiat, Senior Vice President of Brands – Sports at GMG, said: “As one of the most anticipated events on the DFC calendar, Sun & Sand Sports, part of GMG, is delighted to extend its support for the third consecutive year for Dubai Run. This strong commitment aligns perfectly with our three-year strategic partnership with Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE). As active contributors to GMG’s vision of fostering active and vibrant lifestyles, we consider ourselves essential to the UAE’s mission. to foster communities dedicated to health and well-being.”

Dubai Run presented by Mai Dubai is a flagship event of DFC, an embodiment of the vision set forth by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, to help make Dubai one of the most active cities in the world.

DFC, which will take place from Saturday, October 28 to Sunday, November 26, 2023, offers a full 30-day schedule of free sporting events, fitness centers, community centers, classes and activities to support participants in their commitment of doing 30 minutes of exercise for 30 consecutive days.