'Dubai is always ahead': Mallathon to help stay fit in summer heat, say athletes

Khaleej Times

4 days ago

A wave of excitement is building among UAE residents and local athletes as they prepare for the inaugural ' Dubai Mallathon' initiative. The initiative launched by Sheikh Hamdan, which transforms the city's iconic shopping malls into indoor fitness tracks daily from 7am to 10am, has generated tremendous enthusiasm from community members seeking new, climate-controlled spaces for their morning workouts.
The innovative initiative offers residents a unique solution to maintain their fitness routines during the challenging summer months, providing air-conditioned environments that shield fitness enthusiasts from the region's intense heat.
Ras Al Khaimah's accomplished long-distance runner, Abdulla AlShehhi, expressed his enthusiasm for the programme. 'The Dubai Mallathon initiative marks a significant step in promoting a healthy lifestyle during the summer, especially for us as runners. Transforming shopping malls into walking and running tracks is a smart idea that provides a safe and comfortable environment, encouraging everyone to stay consistent even in hot weather," he said.
AlShehhi, who is currently preparing for the upcoming Sydney Marathon at the end of August, sees the timing as perfect. 'This initiative couldn't have come at a better time. It offers an ideal indoor environment to train effectively, beat the summer heat, and stay committed to our fitness goals throughout the season,' he added.
The runner praised Dubai's forward-thinking approach, 'Initiatives like this prove that Dubai is always ahead when it comes to integrated community thinking. I'm personally excited to take part, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of this unique opportunity.'
Talal from Sharjah, who practices various sports including swimming and running, highlighted the practical benefits of the initiative, 'Running inside malls provides an air-conditioned and suitable environment for exercising away from harsh weather conditions, especially in summer. It also provides a level and safe surface and allows friends and family to participate together. It improves heart and muscle health and helps burn calories.'
Running coach Fuad Naser, founder of the 5:30 RUN club in the UAE, praised the initiative's innovative approach, 'The 'Dubai Mallathon' is a brilliant and well-conceived initiative that showcases Dubai's commitment to public health and innovative solutions.'
Naser emphasized the programme's broader impact: 'It effectively addresses a unique environmental challenge while promoting a vibrant, active, and connected community. HH Faz3's leadership in launching such a practical and beneficial programme is highly commendable, setting a new benchmark for urban wellness initiatives.'
The coach concluded with high praise for the initiative's contribution to Dubai's reputation: 'It's a fantastic step towards keeping Dubai truly the 'best place to live, work, and visit.''
The Dubai Mallathon represents a creative solution to the UAE's climate challenges, offering residents and visitors alike an opportunity to maintain active lifestyles year-round.
By repurposing existing infrastructure during off-peak hours, the initiative demonstrates Dubai's commitment to innovative urban planning and community wellness.
The program is expected to attract fitness enthusiasts of all levels, from casual walkers to serious athletes preparing for international competitions, creating a diverse and inclusive fitness community within the city's retail spaces.
As announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, the Dubai Mallathon initiative transforms shopping centers into fitness venues during morning hours, reinforcing Dubai's position as a leader in innovative community health programs.