Dubai Fitness Challenge 2023: Key dates announced

The seventh edition of the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) is set to kick off on October 28 and will last a month until November 26, as per state news agency WAM.

The flagship fitness initiative launched by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, aims to transform Dubai into one of the world’s most active cities.

Dubai Fitness Challenge

Launched in 2017, DFC is an annual fitness movement that highlights Dubai’s robust sports and fitness infrastructure, motivating residents to adopt lasting healthy habits. Last year’s edition saw a record number of 2.2 million participants, with notable flagship events on Sheikh Zayed Road attracting close to 35,000 cyclists for the Dubai Ride and 193,000 runners for the Dubai Run, reports WAM.

The Dubai Fitness Challenge encourages the residents and citizens living in the emirate to embrace a healthier lifestyle by committing to 30 minutes of exercise every day for 30 days. The month-long initiative is comprised of an action-packed calendar of activities and events.

This year, the seventh edition of the challenge will have Dubai Ride take place on Sunday, November 12, while Dubai Run will conclude the challenge on Sunday, November 26. Both events will offer families, recreational cyclists and runners and fitness enthusiasts the opportunity to experience cycling, running, jogging, or walking past Dubai’s iconic landmarks on Sheikh Zayed Road.

Over the next few weeks, authorities are set to release more details about the calendar of events, activities and initiatives. Details to register for this year’s challenge will also be shared soon.

Dubai Marathon

Additionally, the 23rd edition of the Dubai Marathon will be held on Sunday, January 7, 2024.

Sanctioned by the Dubai Sports Council, the marathon will start and finish on Umm Suqeim Road with three races – the 4km fun run, the 10km road race and the classic 42.195km marathon distance.