Fifth edition of Dubai Run; Sheikh Hamdan led over more than 226,000 participants

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai led over 226,000 participants in the fifth Dubai Run, organised by Mai Dubai, showcasing an incredible demonstration of camaraderie among the community. With attendance surpassing that of the previous year, the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) 2023 has solidified its status as the largest community fun run globally.

Together with UAE astronauts Dr. Sultan Alneyadi and Hazzaa Almansoori, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed demonstrated exceptional unity by walking the 10-kilometer course with the general public to demonstrate their common love of fitness. Along with Russian cosmonauts Sergey Prokopev, Dimitrii Petelin, and Andrei Fediaev, as well as American astronauts Stephen Bowen, Warren Hoburg, and Francisco Rubio, Dr. Al Neyadi's fellow Expedition 69 crew members from his historic mission aboard the International Space Station also joined the run.

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed received the Dubai Fitness Challenge flag from astronaut Dr. Al Neyadi during the fifth edition of the Dubai Run's start. By supporting the acceptance of sports as a vital component in maintaining human health, the gesture expresses gratitude for His Highness's steadfast dedication to the welfare and happiness of the Dubai community.

During his record six-month stay on the International Space Station—the longest mission by an Arab astronaut—Dr. Al Neyadi had flown the Dubai Fitness Challenge banner. The purpose of this symbolic deed was to emphasise the value of regular exercise and an active lifestyle in the United Arab Emirates. The flag was a striking symbol of the unwavering spirit of discovery and the worldwide quest of health and well-being as it drifted elegantly in weightless space against the backdrop of Earth.

The famous Sheikh Zayed Road was turned into a massive running track, enticing people from all walks of life and offering an incredible chance to see Dubai like never before. The atmosphere was heavy with resolve and a strong sense of camaraderie as the athletes started off.

Dubai Run, which catered to runners of all skill levels, provided two unique courses that guaranteed each participant an amazing experience. The first was the thrilling 10 km Sheikh Zayed Road course, which allowed runners to explore the urban terrain and make lifelong memories while testing their boundaries in front of some of the most famous sites in the city. Additionally, there was the 5 km Downtown route, which offered a fantastic chance for friends and family to gather together and take a unique tour through the centre of the city.

Aiming to make Dubai one of the world's most active cities and supporting its larger aim to become the finest city in the world to live in, work in, and visit, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the Dubai Run programme in 2017. It is one of the most anticipated events of DFC. The success of the fifth edition today is evidence of the resolute spirit and passion of the people of Dubai and shows the city's dedication to fostering a thriving, diverse society that prioritises well-being, community, and health.

Dubai South, Emirates Airline, Dubai's Road and Transport Authority (RTA), Media Partner Arabian Radio Network (ARN), Association Partners Sun and Sand Sports, Emirates NBD, Etisalat by e, La Roche Posay, Optimum Nutrition, talabat, and Emaar, Presenting Partner Mai Dubai, Official Partners Arabian Automobiles, Dubai South, Emirates Airline, and Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) are all involved in the organisation of the Dubai Run.