Dubai’s most anticipated fitness event is making a comeback this November as part of the ninth edition of the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC), bringing back the iconic Dubai Run that will once again transform Sheikh Zayed Road into a massive, traffic-free track for all.
Scheduled for November 23, 2025, the Dubai Run — presented by Mai Dubai — is expected to draw thousands of residents and visitors of all ages, building on the momentum of last year’s record-breaking participation. The event is part of a citywide celebration of health, wellbeing, and unity under the theme of the UAE’s “Year of Community.”
The announcement was made during a ceremony unveiling DFC’s bold new brand identity, where Khalfan Belhoul, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council and CEO of Dubai Future Foundation, emphasized the power of collective commitment. “The success of the Dubai Fitness Challenge would not have been possible without the passion, energy, and commitment of our community,” he said. “With 2025 declared the Year of Community, I am confident this year’s edition will once again unite friends, families, and organisations in the shared pursuit of a healthier lifestyle.”
Founded in 2017 by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the DFC has since grown into a full-scale movement, encouraging residents to commit to just 30 minutes of daily activity for 30 days. More than 13 million people have joined the initiative since its inception, with a 200% rise in participation as the city embraced an active lifestyle.
Along with the Dubai Run, the 2025 DFC calendar includes the Dubai Ride on November 2, Dubai Stand-Up Paddle from November 8 to 9, and a newly introduced Dubai Yoga session at sunset on November 30. These events aim to turn the city into an open-air gym, offering free, inclusive, and accessible fitness activities across various communities.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, said the refreshed brand identity reflects the spirit of inclusivity and energy that defines the initiative. “Our new brand identity captures the energy and inclusivity of the movement and serves as a powerful call to action for the future,” he noted.
With over 2.7 million participants recorded in 2024, DFC continues to have a measurable impact on the city. Reports show participants experienced improvements in physical fitness, mental wellbeing, and self-esteem—solidifying DFC as more than just a campaign, but a movement shaping the future of wellness in Dubai.
