16,500 attend 15th Beat Diabetes Walk in Dubai

Dubai: More than 16,500 residents, including 3,500 children, participated in the 15th annual Beat Diabetes Walk at Za’abeel Park in Dubai, raising awareness about diabetes and highlighting the growing concern of paediatric diabetes in the UAE.

The annual event, a core initiative under Landmark Group’s Beat Diabetes programme, was held this time as part of the UAE’s Year of Community and the ‘Forward Society’ pillar of the “We the UAE 2031 Vision.”

It was organised to encourage early detection, prevention, and management of diabetes through healthy lifestyle choices.

Medical professionals have increasingly warned about the rising prevalence of Type 1 diabetes among children, with reports indicating that 24,000 children in the UAE were diagnosed in 2024 alone, the organisers highlighted.

The initiative saw participation from various sectors, including private organisations, government entities, schools, and community groups, demonstrating widespread support for the cause of raising awareness of diabetes and early detection and prevention along with the importance of a healthy lifestyle across all generations.

A key highlight this year was the collaboration between Landmark Group and GEMS Education, for organising the Superkidz Writing Competition aimed to inspire students to explore themes of healthy living through storytelling.

The contest received over a thousand entries from budding authors in Grade 4 and Grade 5 across GEMS schools.

The customary 2-km walk was followed by fitness activities, sports events, and educational sessions.

The event also provided a platform for free health services, including blood glucose testing via the ‘Wellness on Wheels’ programme by Al Jalila Foundation. Participants also received influenza vaccines and nutritional consultations from Emirates Health Services.

The event was inaugurated by Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman, Landmark Group, along with Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary-General of the Dubai Sports Council, and Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation.

“As we celebrate the Year of Community, I commend the remarkable success of the Beat Diabetes Walk, which continues to unite and inspire people across the UAE in the fight against diabetes,” said Saeed Hareb.

“We firmly believe that an active lifestyle is essential to overall health and wellness and proudly reaffirm our support for this annual family initiative, encouraging all residents to embrace fitness and proactive health management to reduce diseases and enhance quality of life.”

Meanwhile, Dr Zarooni highlighted the importance of community-driven health initiatives. “At Dubai Health, we believe that prioritising patient well-being begins with empowering our community to take charge of their health. The Beat Diabetes initiative aligns with our focus on prevention, early detection, and patient-centred care, ensuring that every individual has the knowledge and resources to lead a healthier life. Through collaborations like this, we reinforce a shared commitment of fostering a future where health awareness translates into meaningful action, creating a lasting impact on individuals and families across the UAE,” he said.

Since its inception in 2009, the Beat Diabetes campaign has played a pivotal role in raising diabetes awareness, supporting diabetes treatment, and promoting healthier lifestyles. Proceeds from the event go to Al Jalila Foundation to fund diabetes treatment and research, reinforcing the community’s collective effort to combat the disease.

Nisha Jagtiani, Group Director at Landmark Group, said: “We are truly overwhelmed by the incredible support today’s event has received from the UAE community, especially the participation from many children, people of determination, and families. Landmark Group is dedicated to advancing the Beat Diabetes initiative, emphasising the significance of regular diabetes testing and embracing a healthy lifestyle.

"The enthusiasm and engagement we witnessed today highlight how deeply initiatives like Beat Diabetes resonate with the community. This collective commitment inspires us to continue our mission to raise awareness and foster a healthier future for everyone.”