Over 40,000 participants logged more than 120 million steps across nine Dubai malls during the month-long Mallathon event/ Image: WAM

A month-long fitness initiative that transformed Dubai’s shopping malls into indoor running tracks has concluded with a global achievement: a new Guinness World Record for the most runners in a mall run event. The Dubai Mallathon, held throughout August 2025 and backed by the country’s top leadership, saw over 40,000 people participate, highlighting the city’s growing momentum as a global hub for community-driven sports.

Record-breaking finale at Dubai Hills Mall

The Dubai Mallathon, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE, wrapped up on Sunday, September 1, 2025, marking a historic moment. According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the final event, hosted at Dubai Hills Mall, drew 1,392 runners, securing a Guinness World Record for the most runners in a mall run event. The record-setting turnout capped a 31-day initiative that ran across nine major malls in Dubai. From The Dubai Mall to Festival Plaza, the campaign converted retail spaces into safe, air-conditioned tracks available daily between 7:00 am and 10:00 am. Participants collectively logged over 120 million steps throughout the month, making the Mallathon one of Dubai’s largest-ever community fitness movements.

Dubai Mallathon to become annual, extended event

Building on this year’s success, Dubai Mallathon is set to become an annual event starting in 2026, running from June 15 to September 15 across multiple malls citywide. This expanded three-month format aims to increase accessibility and encourage wider participation among all segments of society.The move comes under the directive of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to making fitness an integral part of daily life.

Community endorsement and youth engagement

The initiative’s success drew praise from across government and civic institutions. Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, emphasized the transformative impact of community fitness efforts:“The overwhelming participation of young people, who represented the largest share of participants, reaffirms their pivotal role in the success of community initiatives and their importance in shaping the present and future of our nation. We place great confidence in our youth to uphold community values and champion an active lifestyle in line with the UAE’s long-term vision.” He added:“Sport is one of the most powerful platforms through which young people find both inspiration and self-expression. It provides a positive outlet for their energy and a way to strengthen their physical and mental well-being, while reinforcing their active role in society.” The campaign received visible support from youth councils across the UAE, including Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and the Edge Group Youth Council, bringing nationwide representation to the event’s core mission of integrating fitness into everyday life.

Government participation and national policy ties

The Dubai Mallathon was sponsored by the Ministry of Defence and implemented in partnership with the Dubai Sports Council, aligning closely with national initiatives such as the ‘Year of Community’, Dubai Social Agenda 33, and the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033. Khalfan Belhoul, Vice President of the Dubai Sports Council, credited the achievement to strategic leadership:“At the Dubai Sports Council, we are proud of this achievement and reaffirm our commitment to supporting and expanding such initiatives in line with the leadership’s vision for a healthier and happier society. We will spare no effort in reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global capital for community sports and a leading destination for hosting innovative events that blend competitiveness with community spirit and enhance quality of life.” He also acknowledged the vision of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed as a key driver:“The support and directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed were instrumental to the success of the initiative, which aims to make sport a part of daily life and a means of fostering cohesion and positive engagement across all segments of society.” More than a dozen public entities participated, including:

This cross-institutional collaboration underscored the initiative’s comprehensive approach to civic health and social cohesion.

Competitive events and inclusive participation

The finale featured a 42-kilometre marathon, drawing 40 runners from various categories. Victor Kiprono clinched first place, followed by Godfrey Segule in second. The third-place finisher was Rio Watson, a runner from the People of Determination category. All three were honoured with prizes aimed at encouraging their athletic journeys and supporting future development in sport. The Mallathon also hosted diverse community events, including a women’s race in partnership with the Dubai Sports Council, organised specially to commemorate Emirati Women’s Day. By the end of August, over 10 kilometres of indoor track had been laid out across nine malls:

These venues provided a comfortable, accessible, and inclusive environment, enabling people of all fitness levels and backgrounds to participate.