Video: Dubai Run transforms Sheikh Zayed Road into a vibrant festival of fitness and unity

Dubai woke up to a dazzling spectacle on Sunday morning as tens of thousands of residents – from toddlers in strollers to seniors with decades of UAE memories – turned Sheikh Zayed Road into a river of colour, movement and joy for the annual Dubai Run.

With national flags fluttering, LED bands glowing in the early dawn and pyrotechnics lighting up the sky, the iconic artery of the city became a festive playground for families, athletes and first-time participants alike.

Watch all the action unfold in the video below

Among the sea of enthusiastic runners was Anshid Basheer, a long-serving staff member at the Malaysian Embassy in Abu Dhabi. Returning for the second year, he ran the 5km run alongside his wife and their 1.5-year-old twins, Ozil Miran and Zidane Malik, tucked comfortably in their stroller.

“This is a festive environment. It’s a celebration of all emirates across the country,” said Basheer.

The family made the experience even more memorable by camping overnight at the Half Desert with Anshid’s brother, Arshad Muhammed, a Silicon Oasis resident, and his family. Arshad, who runs a real estate firm, participated with his wife and children Maher Zain (8) and Mehza Fathima (1.5).

“It was fun time. We really enjoyed ourselves. This was more than just a run. We also took part in the Fujairah Run,” Muhammed noted.

For long-time Dubai residents Razak and Sana, the morning run wasn’t just about fitness, it was about creating a cherished family memory with their 11-month-old baby, Mizan.

“It’s an amazing experience. It’s something completely new for our child,” Sana said, gently adjusting Mizan’s hairs as he gazed around in wide-eyed wonder. “We wanted him to be part of this event, to feel this energy, this joy, even if he won’t remember it,” Razak noted.

The energetic vibe attracted many first-timers, including Kenyan couple Ian and Brenda Chirchir and their friend Joan Wanjiku, who were thrilled to join the spectacle for the first time.

“The temperature is amazing. It’s a rare chance to run on the Sheikh Zayed Road,” Ian and Brenda said.

Joan added a poetic touch to the morning mood: “It’s a privilege to be amid a sea of blue. It’s the colour of water, which also resembles life.”

In a heartwarming sight, an elderly couple joined the 5km walk, keeping pace with participants several generations younger.

For K. Manjunath, who has lived in Dubai for more than 20 years, the event is an annual commitment.

“I am taking part for the third year. This event motivates us to walk, be fit. This time the public was more lively.”

His wife, Vasantha Lakshmi, expressed gratitude for the opportunity the city continues to offer its residents.

“Thank you, Dubai for giving this opportunity. It’s a privilege. It’s more than a million dollars’ worth. From tiny tots to elderly people like us have participated.”

Not just families and friends, even corporate groups turned up in full force for the run.

“We are taking part for the first time with a strong team of 30 enthusiasts. It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase our commitment to a healthy and active lifestyle,” said Marco Seghi, managing director, Culligan. “Our team spirit really shone throughout the run – employees from different departments came together and supported one another. We look forward to joining again with an even larger team,” Seghi noted.

From pregnant women powerwalking with determination, to children waving flags, Dubai Run once again proved why it is one of the most anticipated events of the Dubai Fitness Challenge.