KT Photos: Shihab/Nasreen

Thousands of participants, undeterred by age or physical abilities, gathered on Dubai's iconic Sheikh Zayed Road for the Dubai Run on Sunday, November 24. For Indian expat Amardeep Monteiro, who has been affected by polio, this was her inaugural participation in the event. "All these years I didn't join because I thought I had to run, but then I learned that walking was also an option," she said, using a walking support. "I'm truly enjoying myself and the vibrant atmosphere."

KT Photo: Nasreen

A UAE resident for over 35 years, Monteiro found the run to be a beacon of hope. "In a world filled with conflict and destruction, seeing thousands of people on Sheikh Zayed Road running together as one big family gives me hope and joy," she said. "Next year, I hope to bring my family along." The run commenced shortly after 6.30am, led by the Crown Prince of Dubai, with police vehicles, including a cyber Tesla truck, ensuring safety.

KT Photo: Shihab

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, joined the throng of runners. Dressed in a full-sleeved shirt and bearing the blue registration number 003, he ran the 10km route. He was accompanied by a sea of runners in green jerseys, reinforcing Dubai's reputation as one of the world's fittest cities.

For Filipina expat Jean and her 5-year-old son Kalem, who has been in a wheelchair since birth, this was their second time participating. "He loved the energy last year," Jean said. "Seeing other children with determination running made us feel part of a community." The duo walked over 45 minutes to reach the starting line, opting to avoid the hassle of finding parking.

Abu Dhabi resident Siddique and his family drove into Dubai the night before and parked at a relative's house to participate. "We slept for just an hour and arrived at the start line at 5am," he said. "This is an event my family and I never miss. The atmosphere and energy are unparalleled."

The free run marked the finale of the 30-day Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC), transforming the city into an open gym. This year's event featured skydivers, paragliders, and an aircraft performing acrobatic stunts. Police officers on horseback were part of the extensive security team that cleared roads and assisted runners.

Two-year-old Kabir Hemani, who attended with his family, was particularly excited about the horses. "His father tells him stories about horses running on Sheikh Zayed Road, and now he believes it's true because he saw the horses here," his mother Zahra chuckled.

Metro services began as early as 3am to facilitate runners' commute to the start line. According to 61-year-old Hana Taha, the trains were bustling. The British expat drove from Dubai Hills to Jumeirah Lake Towers to pick up her daughter Nadia, and they took the metro to the run. "It was packed when we boarded at around 5.30am," she said. "But it was more convenient than driving. The early metro service was fantastic."

It was Taha's first time participating in the run. "The energy and vibe are truly remarkable," she said. "I'll definitely be back next year." Nadia expressed her fondness for the DFC. "I love how fitness becomes so accessible during this month," she said. "It's the best time of the year."

Another first-timer was one-year-old Ellie, accompanied by her parents. "She loves being outdoors, and we wanted her to experience this," her mother Chin said. "She stops every few meters to look around or wave at someone. She's really enjoying herself."

Participants had the choice between two scenic routes: the 5km Downtown course, ideal for families and beginners, and the more challenging 10km route along Sheikh Zayed Road. Both courses started near the Museum of the Future, with the 5km route passing landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Opera, ending at Souk Al Bahar near Dubai Mall. The 10km route extended along Sheikh Zayed Road, crossing the Dubai Canal Bridge and looping back towards DIFC's Gate Building.

For some, the run was an opportunity to showcase their culture. Filipina expat June ran alongside her 13-year-old niece Iya, wearing a Salakot hat. "My father is a farmer and fisherman," she said. "This hat belonged to him, and for the last three years, I've worn it during the run to honor him and his work." The duo cherished the time they spent running together, bonding over the experience.

KT Photo: Shihab

KT Photo: Shihab

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