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Dubai is lacing up again. The ninth Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC), launched by Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, kicked off on 1 November with one clear goal: make Dubai the most active, healthy, and vibrant city on the planet. Over the next month, the city will buzz with free workouts, headline events, and inclusive activities for every age and ability.

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About the Dubai Fitness Challenge

DFC follows a simple 30x30 format: 30 minutes of activity for 30 days. The intent is to build a sustainable habit for everyone, from seasoned athletes to first-time movers. “Dubai is a city that recognises the importance of physical, mental and social well-being… All it takes for you to succeed is an unyielding pledge to enjoy 30 minutes of activity for 30 days. I challenge each and every one of you to embrace your fitness journey and make a difference in your life. Together, let’s make the UAE the most active country in the world,” said H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

Since 2017, DFC has inspired millions to get moving. After welcoming more than 2.7 million participants in 2024, this year’s edition expands with citywide events, free classes, tournaments, and wellness moments that make staying active feel easy.

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Four marquee events

1. Dubai Cycling Challenge — Sunday (Sheikh Zayed Road). Sheikh Zayed Road becomes a cyclist’s playground on Sunday morning. The Family Route at 4 km offers a relaxed loop through Downtown Dubai, while the Full Route at 12 km cruises past the Museum of the Future, Dubai Water Canal, and Burj Khalifa. Speed rides for advanced cyclists operate from 5:00 to 6:00 am, and the event is fully inclusive with dedicated support for modified bikes, bicycles, and hand cycles. Registered riders can collect jerseys and bibs at the Dubai Municipality 30x30 Fitness Village in Zabeel Park from 29 October to 1 November.
   
   
2. Dubai Rowing Challenge, Hatta — 8–9 November. Set against the turquoise waters of Hatta Dam in the Hajar Mountains, this two-day experience blends adventure and calm with complimentary rowing sessions led by professional instructors, free kayaking in single dinghies (17+) and doubles for families on a first-come, first-served basis, and sunset yoga over the water. All gear, including boards, paddles, and life jackets, is provided, with dedicated support for people of determination. Hours run from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm daily, and a free shuttle connects One Central parking at Dubai World Trade Centre to Hatta for a seamless weekend. Registration is available at www.dubaistanduppaddle.ae.
   
   
3. Dubai Run — 23 November. The city’s signature community moment returns for a seventh year, turning Sheikh Zayed Road into the world’s largest free running track. The 10 km route suits experienced runners and finishes at DIFC Gate, while the 5 km route suits families and first-timers and finishes near The Dubai Mall on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard. Registration is available at www.dubairun.com.
   
   
4. Dubai Yoga — 30 November. A brand-new flagship finale unfolds at sunset in Zabeel Park as thousands roll out their mats for one of the region’s biggest group yoga sessions under the theme “Find Your Challenge.” Registration is available at www.DubaiYoga.ae.
   
   

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Fitness villages, community hubs, and daily 30s

The 30x30 Fitness Villages form the heartbeat of DFC with free workouts, themed zones, expert-led classes, and family-friendly activities running daily at Kite Beach, Zabeel Park, and Al Warqa Park. Across the city, Community Fitness Hubs broaden the calendar with running, cycling, yoga, and new workout trends, ensuring accessible sessions for those trying something fresh or returning to a routine.

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What’s new and not-to-miss in 2025

Highlights for 2025 include one of Dubai’s biggest mass yoga gatherings, a refreshed slate of innovative workout sessions, landmark events staged at iconic locations, world-class challenges tailored to every level, exciting new sports to sample, and community-first programming that brings neighbourhoods together.

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Keep the momentum going

Participation does not end with November. Dubai’s year-round fitness calendar spans community runs to elite sporting events, while the Find Your 30 online hub provides ideas, schedules, and tips to maintain daily 30-minute activities throughout 2025 and build readiness for next year’s challenge.

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Quick links

Key resources are available at Hatta Rowing & Paddle on 8–9 November - www.dubaistanduppaddle.ae, Dubai Run on 23 November - www.dubairun.com, and Dubai Yoga on 30 November - www.DubaiYoga.ae.

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Key facts

1. The Dubai Fitness Challenge, launched in 2017 by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is a citywide movement that encourages long-term fitness through the 30x30 formula.
2. The 2025 edition runs from 1 to 30 November, with a full month of free workouts, headline events, and community activities across Dubai.
3. The purpose is to build consistent habits that improve physical, mental, and social well-being and to foster a healthier, happier city.
4. Registration opens from early October for individuals, companies, partners, and sponsors, with team sign-ups available and the Find Your 30 hub offering ideas, tips, and resources.
5. In 2025, DFC partners with multiple fitness apps, and the approved list appears on the official DFC website.
6. Participation is free, and most classes and events are free, with some third-party activities potentially charging separate entry fees.
7. The programme is open to all ages and fitness levels, welcoming residents and visitors alike during November.
8. Activities span yoga, cycling, padel tennis, group runs, children’s sessions, and more, catering to beginners and experienced participants.
9. Family-friendly design runs throughout the programme, including family routes and kid-centric sessions that support simple 30-day challenges at home.
10. Safety protocols align with guidelines from the Government of Dubai and the Dubai Health Authority, ensuring participant well-being at all events and activations.

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Pick your 30, bring a friend, and join the city.

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