Hamdan bin Mohammed launches second edition of Dubai Mallathon across six malls

Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has directed the launch of the second edition of Dubai Mallathon.The initiative, described as the world’s first community sports programme of its kind, will commence on 15 June and run for three months until 15 September 2026.Dubai Mallathon aims to promote physical activity, enhance public health and quality of life, and encourage sport as a sustainable daily practice for all members of society.City-wide participationThe initiative will take place across six shopping centres: Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Mirdif City Centre, Dubai Festival City Mall, Deira City Centre and Dubai Hills Mall.These venues will provide safe, air-conditioned environments for walking, running and other physical activities throughout the summer.The programme is aligned with the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033, which seeks to strengthen the emirate’s position as one of the world’s best cities for quality of life. It also supports the UAE’s ‘Year of the Family’ 2026 by encouraging families to engage in activities together.Leadership visionSheikh Hamdan said Dubai will continue to advance a comprehensive quality-of-life model under the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.“Health and quality of life are the foundation of thriving societies and essential to empowering people, enhancing their wellbeing, and enabling them to contribute, innovate and succeed,” he said.“Dubai is a city for everyone, and its facilities are designed to serve all members of society. We want every citizen, resident and visitor to feel supported and to have access to everything they need to lead a healthy, balanced and fulfilling life.”He added that sport plays a key role in strengthening community bonds and promoting shared values.“What distinguishes Dubai is its strong sense of community. Dubai is one family united by the values of coexistence, tolerance and compassion.”Programme and activitiesThe initiative will run daily from 6am to 10am, offering dedicated walking and running tracks as well as a range of sports activities and community programmes designed for different age groups and fitness levels.There will also be activities for women at Dubai Mall and Mirdif City Centre, along with initiatives for senior citizens and People of Determination to ensure inclusivity.A calendar of events, competitions and interactive activities will be held throughout the three months, including weekend races with prizes, medals and rewards.Qualified fitness trainers will be available at participating malls to lead warm-up sessions and provide guidance to participants.Free participationParticipation in Dubai Mallathon is free and does not require prior registration. Visitors can attend any participating mall and receive a wristband that grants access to exclusive offers from retail outlets, restaurants and cafés.Additional rewards and incentives will be offered based on participation levels and attendance frequency.The initiative is organised in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council, following the success of its first edition, which attracted thousands of participants and achieved a Guinness World Record for the largest mall running event of its kind.