The Sheikh Zayed Festival, one of the UAE’s most popular cultural events, is adding something new this year — a Summer Fitness Marathon. The marathon is set to take place this May and is open to participants of all ages and fitness levels. The organisers have announced that registrations are now open, and they expect more than 5,000 people to join the run.
The festival is known for its cultural shows, traditional markets, and spectacular fireworks. But now, it’s stepping into the world of health and wellness with a large-scale fitness event that aims to bring the community together in a fun and healthy way. This summer’s marathon will also feature a family wellness village, packed with activities for everyone to enjoy, from kids to grandparents.
A Marathon for Everyone
Whether you’re a professional runner, a beginner, or someone just looking to enjoy a day outdoors, this marathon is for you. Organisers have designed the event to be inclusive and exciting, offering several race categories including:
- 3 km fun walk/jog
- 5 km community run
- 10 km advanced run
- Kids’ sprint zone (for children under 12)
With this wide range of options, participants can choose a category that best suits their fitness level and goals.
The marathon is not just about speed or competition. It’s more about encouraging people to stay active, connect with their community, and enjoy time with family. The festival grounds will be transformed into a fitness hub with live music, energising warm-up sessions, and healthy food stalls.
The Wellness Village Experience
One of the most exciting parts of the event is the Family Wellness Village, which will be set up near the marathon route. This area will be filled with wellness-focused activities, including:
- Free yoga and meditation sessions
- Nutrition workshops
- Fitness bootcamps
- Interactive health check-up stations
- Kids’ activity zone
- Relaxation lounges with healthy refreshments
Families can spend the entire day at the village, enjoying both the fitness activities and the fun festival atmosphere. Parents can take part in classes while their children engage in creative games or join beginner-friendly races.
This wellness village adds a new dimension to the marathon. It’s not just a run, but a complete health and lifestyle event.
Registration Opens Today
Participants can now register for the marathon. The earlier you sign up, the better — as the event is expected to reach full capacity quickly. Once registered, runners will receive a starter kit that includes a race t-shirt, a numbered bib, and special discounts on wellness services available at the event.
There will also be special prizes and medals for top finishers in each race category, but every participant will receive a certificate of participation to mark their achievement.
A Community Movement
The Sheikh Zayed Festival team says the marathon is part of a larger plan to make fitness and wellness a central theme in their future events. “We’ve always celebrated culture, tradition, and family life. Now, we’re adding health to that list,” said one of the event organisers.
Local schools, fitness centres, and community groups are also being invited to take part in the festival marathon. Many organisations have already shown interest in participating and even sponsoring the event to show support for healthy living in the UAE.
The event is also expected to attract tourists and residents from nearby emirates. With its focus on family fun, fitness, and community well-being, the marathon is turning into a highlight of the summer calendar.
Safety and Support
To make sure everyone stays safe and comfortable, there will be medical staff, hydration stations, and resting areas along the entire marathon route. Volunteers and fitness coaches will also be present to guide beginners and offer support throughout the day.
Organisers have planned the event with summer temperatures in mind. The marathon will start early in the morning, and shaded rest areas will be set up along the track. Cooling stations and mist fans will also be available to help participants stay refreshed.
The Sheikh Zayed Festival team wants people to enjoy the event without worrying about safety or comfort.
More Than Just a Race
This event goes beyond being just a physical challenge. It’s about promoting wellness in all forms — physical, mental, and social. By bringing together thousands of people in one place for a shared purpose, the marathon hopes to spark lasting changes in how we live our lives.
There’s something special about being part of a big movement like this — seeing children run their first race, parents cheering each other on, and families learning about nutrition or stress relief together.
This summer, the Sheikh Zayed Festival is giving people a chance to move, connect, and celebrate health in a way that feels exciting and uplifting.
Get Ready to Run
Whether you want to test your limits with a 10K run or enjoy a gentle walk with your kids, this marathon offers something for everyone. With music, food, wellness workshops, and a community of enthusiastic runners by your side, you’re sure to leave the event feeling energised and inspired.
So, lace up your shoes, mark your calendar for May, and join thousands of others in what promises to be one of the most vibrant and meaningful events of the season.
Registrations are officially open — and spots are filling up fast. This isn’t just another race. It’s a celebration of life, movement, and togetherness. Be part of the fitness wave that’s about to take over the Sheikh Zayed Festival.
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