Patronized by Hamdan bin Mohammed,Dubai Mallathon ends, becomes Guinness World Record for greatest number of runners in a mall run event
- City-wide event draws more than 40,000 participants, making it one of the largest community sporting events in the emirate.
- World record achieved at the closing event held at Dubai Hills Mall, where 1,392 participants from different ages and nationalities joined the race.
- In 31 days, the participants take over 120 million steps on safe, air-conditioned indoor tracks in nine large shopping malls in Dubai.
- Closing ceremony includes a 42-kilometre marathon that saw 40 runners from different categories.
Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi: The campaign demonstrates the leadership’s vision to integrate sports into daily life and create an atmosphere that encourages the physical and psychological health of the community.
Khalfan Belhoul: The world record set by the Dubai Mallathon marks a significant milestone that reinforces Dubai’s position as a global hub for innovative initiatives that create a lasting impact on society.
With the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and UAE Minister of Defence, the Dubai Mallathon closed on Sunday at nine shopping malls. The citywide event, which turned malls into indoor running tracks, saw more than 40,000 people join in, making it one of the emirate’s biggest sporting community events.
Launched in early August, the month-long initiative set a Guinness World Record for the most runners in a mall run event, adding to Dubai’s growing list of global achievements. The record was set during the closing event at Dubai Hills Mall, which saw 1,392 participants of various ages and nationalities take part in the race.
UAE’s long-term vision
Praising the Dubai Mallathon for establishing a Guinness World Record, its robust turnout, and the great community response, His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, stated that the initiative demonstrates the leadership’s dedication to incorporating sports into everyday life and creating an environment that promotes the physical and mental health of the community.
“Massive turnout of youth, who were the majority of participants, reiterates their central position in the success of community programs and their value in building the future and current face of our country. We have great belief in our youth to maintain community values and advocate an active lifestyle in accordance with the UAE’s vision for the future,” said Dr. Al Neyadi.
He further stated: “Sport is one of the strongest tools whereby young people discover both inspiration and personal expression. It offers a healthy release for their energy and a means to enhance their physical and psychological health, and at the same time reinforces their active citizenship.”
Important milestone
His Excellency Khalfan Belhoul, Vice President of the Dubai Sports Council, said the world record set by the Dubai Mallathon marks a significant milestone that reinforces Dubai’s position as a global hub for innovative initiatives that create a lasting impact on society.
He said that guidance and support of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed played a crucial role in achieving the initiative, which seeks to integrate sport into everyday life and become a tool for promoting cohesion and positive interaction among all segments of society.
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Belhoul further added: “We are all proud of this accomplishment here at the Dubai Sports Council and reaffirm our commitment to enhancing and supporting such initiatives as part of the leadership’s vision for a happier and healthier society. We will not hold back in cementing Dubai’s position as a world capital for community sports and a top destination for hosting innovative events that combine competitiveness with community spirit and quality of life.”
40,000 participants
The Dubai Mallathon wrapped up on Sunday following 31 days of resounding success, attracting over 40,000 participants of various ages and backgrounds. Collectively, they took over 120 million steps on secure, air-conditioned indoor tracks in nine major shopping malls in Dubai.
The final activity included a 42-kilometre marathon that united 40 participants in different categories. Victor Kiprono took first position, with Godfrey Segule coming second and Rio Watson — the competitor from People of Determination — being third. The winners were rewarded with prizes to appreciate their work and contribute to the growth of their sporting abilities.
Aside from the marathon, the effort involved several community events and races, including a particular women’s race conducted in coordination with the Dubai Sports Council to celebrate Emirati Women’s Day.
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The event also received good attendance from government and ministries, such as the Dubai Police, Dubai Works and Transport Authority, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, the Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities Department, Dubai Future Foundation, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, Community Development Authority, and General Directorate of Dubai Civil Defence, among others.
Youth councils from all over the UAE, such as Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain, and also the Edge Group Youth Council, participated in the event, showing a countrywide presence that was consistent with the message of incorporating physical activity into every aspect of life throughout the nation.
Backed by the Ministry of Defence and in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council, the campaign was conducted on a daily basis in August at nine shopping malls, namely The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Hills Mall, the Springs Souk, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai Festival City Mall, and Festival Plaza, where indoor tracks covering over 10 kilometres were offered from 7:00 am to 10:00 am.
The Mallathon was instituted in accordance with the goals of the ‘Year of Community’, Dubai Social Agenda 33, and the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033 that aim to create a healthy and harmonious society through programs and activities that foster sport as a way of life and a central pillar of quality of life.
