Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road was transformed into a vibrant sea of runners on Sunday morning as tens of thousands of residents, from toddlers in strollers to senior citizens, participated in the annual Dubai Run. With pyrotechnics illuminating the dawn sky, the city’s main artery became a festive course for families, athletes, and first-time participants taking part in the popular event.
Families and Friends Take to the Streets
The run highlighted a strong sense of community, with many families participating together. Anshid Basheer, a staff member at the Malaysian Embassy, completed the 5km run for the second year with his wife and their 1.5-year-old twins, Ozil Miran and Zidane Malik, who were pushed in a stroller. “This is a festive environment. It’s a celebration of all emirates across the country,” said Basheer.
His family, along with his brother Arshad Muhammed’s family, even camped overnight in the desert to make the most of the experience. Arshad, who also took part in the Fujairah Run, participated with his wife and two young children.
For long-time residents Razak and Sana, the event was an opportunity to create a lasting memory with their 11-month-old baby, Mizan. “It’s an amazing experience. It’s something completely new for our child,” Sana said. Razak added, “We wanted him to be part of this event, to feel this energy, this joy, even if he won’t remember it.”
A Mix of Newcomers and Regulars
The energetic atmosphere attracted many first-time runners. Kenyan couple Ian and Brenda Chirchir, along with their friend Joan Wanjiku, were thrilled to join. “The temperature is amazing. It’s a rare chance to run on the Sheikh Zayed Road,” they said. Joan described the scene as a “privilege to be amid a sea of blue,” comparing the colour of the participants’ shirts to water and life.
The event also drew loyal participants like K. Manjunath, a resident of over 20 years who was taking part for the third time. “This event motivates us to walk, be fit,” he commented, noting that the crowd seemed more lively this year. His wife, Vasantha Lakshmi, expressed her appreciation for the city. “Thank you, Dubai for giving this opportunity. It’s a privilege. It’s more than a million dollars’ worth.”
Corporate Teams Embrace Fitness Challenge
Beyond individuals and families, corporate groups also turned out in large numbers. Marco Seghi, managing director of Culligan, led a team of 30 employees. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase our commitment to a healthy and active lifestyle,” he said. The run provided a platform for companies to demonstrate their focus on employee well-being, a value shared by other organisations in the city, such as the Saudi German Hospital Dubai which strengthens its commitment to community care. Seghi added that the team spirit was strong and that they plan to return with an even larger group next year.
From determined pregnant women to children waving flags, the Dubai Run once again proved its status as one of the most anticipated events of the Dubai Fitness Challenge. It successfully brought together a diverse cross-section of the city’s population for a morning of health, celebration, and community spirit, a feeling often seen during major events like the UAE National Day holidays.
