Dubai has once again made history. The month-long Dubai Mallathon, held across nine shopping centres, wrapped up on Sunday with a Guinness World Record for the largest mall run event. The record was set during the closing race at Dubai Hills Mall which saw 1,392 runners, securing Dubai’s place in the global spotlight.
Dubai Mallathon was launched in August and lasted the whole month across nine major malls across the city.
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the initiative drew more than 40,000 participants who collectively logged over 120 million steps on air-conditioned indoor tracks. Families, young people, and People of Determination took part, turning shopping malls into vibrant fitness arenas.
Officials praised the initiative and the record as a milestone in embedding sports into daily life. His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, highlighted the strong youth turnout, calling it a sign of the nation’s commitment to health and community spirit, and 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”.
Dubai Mallathon event also reflects Dubai’s long-term vision of building inclusive, healthier, happier communities and strengthening its position as an epicentre of innovative global initiatives.