Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan joins the Dubai Run. ARCHIVE

If you've ever joked about getting your daily steps in while shopping at the mall — congratulations, you're now part of an official fitness movement. Dubai’s Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has just launched Dubai Mallathon, a fresh fitness initiative that lets you walk (or jog!) your way to health, inside Dubai’s coolest malls. Starting August 1, nine of the city’s top malls — Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Hills Mall, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai Festival City Mall, Festival Plaza and The Springs Souk — will open early from 7am to 10am daily, transforming their air-conditioned spaces into indoor walking and running tracks. "Every step you take moves us closer towards a healthier Dubai," said Sheikh Hamdan, as he invited the public to lace up and join the fun. “We want everyone in Dubai to feel they can stay active and energised in welcoming spaces built with their needs in mind,” he added. The initiative, which runs until August 31, is more than just a walk in the mall. It’s part of Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aims to improve community wellbeing in everyday spaces. Expect more than just walking: the Dubai Mallathon includes fitness-tracking systems, health awareness booths, guided stretching sessions, and even dedicated areas for kids to get moving, too. Whether you're a senior citizen wanting a gentle stroll, a kid with too much energy, a busy mall employee squeezing in some cardio, or just someone trying to hit your step goal without melting in the sun — there’s something here for you. How to join? It’s free! Simply register at dubaimallathon.ae and you’ll get a digital card confirming your participation. Bonus: Participants can enjoy special deals from mall restaurants and shops that promote healthier lifestyles — think salads instead of sundaes, and sneakers instead of stilettos. “As a new community initiative launched from Dubai’s malls, it’s a simple idea with a powerful goal: bringing healthy, active living into familiar everyday spaces,” Sheikh Hamdan shared. "This is a shared journey. We are all partners in transforming our city into the world’s best place to live, work, and visit." So the next time you head to the mall, bring your walking shoes — and maybe a water bottle — and join the Mallathon. Because this summer, Dubai malls aren’t just for shopping anymore… they’re for stepping up your fitness game. ICA/Expat Media
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