On a vibrant Sunday morning, Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai witnessed a stunning transformation into a lively sea of orange as residents and visitors eagerly participated in the iconic Dubai Run.
Record-Breaking Turnout
An impressive 226,000 participants of diverse ages and skill levels took to the key road for one of the highlights of the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) on November 26. Led by Dubai’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and his team, this event claimed the title of the world’s largest free fun run.
Royal Leadership and Enthusiastic Crowds: Sheikh Zayed Road
Sheikh Hamdan, leading the group of runners, smiled and waved at the initial participants, creating a memorable spectacle. Expressing gratitude later on X, he wrote, “A big thank you to all 226,000 participants who joined Dubai Run!”
Dawn Gathering and Early Start
Volunteers reported that eager participants started arriving as early as 3:30 am for the event, which officially kicked off at 6:30 am.
Team AngelWolf’s Role as Marshals
Nick Watson, the founder of Team AngelWolf, served as one of the race marshals, guiding people outside the Emirates Towers metro station before joining his team at the starting line. “We have participated in every Dubai Run held so far,” he remarked.
Diverse Participation and Novel Experiences
For Scottish expats Christie, Alise, and Nathan, witnessing Sheikh Zayed Road transform into a colossal running track was a novel experience. Christie and Alise, newcomers to the UAE, participated in the run for the first time.
Two Routes for All Abilities
With two routes – a 5km flat route and a more challenging 10km route – the Dubai Run aimed to cater to all participants. The 5km route concluded on the Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard near Dubai Mall, while the 10km route traversed the Dubai Canal bridge, looped along Sheikh Zayed Road, and finished near DIFC Gate.
From Toddlers to Teens
Remarkably, children as young as one joined the runners. Filipino expat Andrei, for instance, patiently ran behind his one-year-old daughter Briana, who explored the surroundings with excitement.
Fostering Community Spirit
The non-competitive fun run fostered a sense of community, with families, friends, and colleagues turning out in large numbers for a morning of exercise.
Returning Participants and Commendations
German expat Meike and her three daughters, along with a friend, participated in the run for the second year. Returning for the second year, Meike praised the well-organized event and shared that she took the metro to reach the starting point near the Museum of the Future.
Road Reopens and Safety Measures: Sheikh Zayed Road
A little after 10 am, Sheikh Zayed Road was reopened to traffic, preceded by police cars performing last-minute sweeps to ensure safety.
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