The Dubai Mallathon. ARCHIVE

As thousands of residents prepare to lace up their running shoes for the return of Dubai Mallathon, organisers are putting a spotlight on a series of competitive Pro Racing Days that will bring an extra dose of excitement to the record-breaking summer fitness initiative. The second edition of Dubai Mallathon begins on Monday (June 15) and runs until September 15, transforming some of Dubai’s biggest shopping centres into air-conditioned walking and jogging tracks from 6am to 10am daily. Launched under the directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, the initiative aims to enhance quality of life, health and community wellbeing. While residents can join the daily walks and runs free of charge without registration, participants wishing to compete in the Pro Racing Days must register in via dubaimallathon.ae, although participation remains free. The competitive race series will travel across the six participating malls every Saturday throughout the summer, offering runners a unique opportunity to compete in climate-controlled indoor venues while temperatures soar outside. Participating malls include Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, Dubai Festival City Mall, City Centre Deira and Dubai Hills Mall. According to organisers, regular walks and runs on Pro Racing Days will begin later than usual, starting at 8:30am after the races conclude. In addition to walking and jogging routes, participants can enjoy guided warm-ups, stretching sessions, wellness booths, interactive activities and fitness zones for children. Dubai Mallathon's debut edition in 2025 attracted 1,300 participants and earned a Guinness World Record for the largest mall running event of its kind. Officials are hoping the addition of regular Pro Racing Days will further boost participation and attract both experienced runners and newcomers looking to challenge themselves in a unique setting.

Dubai Mallathon Pro Racing Days 2026 schedule

June 20 • 6am: Dubai Hills Mall June 27 • 6am: Dubai Mall July 4 • 6am: City Centre Mirdif July 11 • 6am: Dubai Festival City Mall July 18 • 6am: City Centre Deira July 25 • 6am: Mall of the Emirates August 1 • 6am: Dubai Hills Mall August 8 • 6am: Dubai Mall August 15 • 6am: City Centre Mirdif August 22 • 6am: Dubai Festival City Mall August 29 • 6am: City Centre Deira September 5 • 6am: Mall of the Emirates September 12 • 6am: Dubai Hills Mall September 14 • 6am: Dubai Mall
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