Thousands of fitness enthusiasts, corporate teams, and families converged on Dubai’s Sevens Stadium on Sunday for the inaugural UAE edition of the Devils Circuit, one of Asia’s most demanding obstacle races. The event transformed the desert venue into a high-energy festival of endurance and teamwork, marking a significant new entry into the region’s fitness calendar.
From early morning, participants gathered with a palpable sense of anticipation for what was, for many, their first experience with an obstacle course race. The atmosphere was one of community and excitement as runners prepared to take on the challenge.
A Test of Endurance and Teamwork
The Devils Circuit course was designed to test physical strength and mental resolve. Competitors faced a series of formidable obstacles, including the “Brain Freeze” ice pit and the “Summit” climb, alongside various crawls and jumps. Throughout the muddy and strenuous course, a notable spirit of camaraderie emerged. Strangers were seen helping one another over walls, and friends offered encouragement to push through difficult sections.
As participants crossed the finish line, covered in mud but visibly proud, it was clear the event had resonated. The race emphasised community and personal achievement over competitive timing, reminding attendees that fitness can be a social and enjoyable activity.
A Decade-Long Vision Realised
For founders Adnan Adeeb and Zeba Zaidi, the Dubai debut was the culmination of a long-held ambition. “From our very first race in India, we wanted to build something that celebrated resilience and unity,” said Zaidi. “Dubai felt like the natural next step. It’s a city that thrives on ambition, diversity, and global energy, the perfect place for the Devils Circuit to evolve.”
The organisers have ambitious plans for the region, viewing the successful Dubai event as a launchpad for further growth across the Gulf.
Regional Expansion and Community Focus
Organisers confirmed that the Dubai race is the first of many planned for the region. Over the next three years, the team intends to host editions in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other GCC cities to establish a regional circuit.
The Corporate Challenge
A key part of the expansion is the introduction of the Corporate Challenge, a shorter, high-intensity course designed for professional teams. This format aims to help organisations foster teamwork, wellness, and leadership skills through physical activity. It has already proven highly successful in India, where companies from various sectors compete for the title of “Fittest Corporate.”
Building a Fitness Culture
The long-term goal extends beyond single events. “We see Dubai not just as a venue, but as a base to build a culture,” explained Zaidi. “We want to collaborate with schools, universities, and companies to make obstacle-based training and functional fitness accessible to everyone.” This vision includes working with local institutions, an area of development highlighted by initiatives such as Dubai’s new 60 affordable schools plan.
Future plans include training programmes, pop-up obstacle experiences, and wellness partnerships with gyms and fitness studios across the UAE. By creating these year-round touchpoints, Devils Circuit aims to inspire a wider movement centred on health, resilience, and community.
