The Dubai Mallathon attracted 40,000 runners across nine malls, setting a Guinness World Record for the largest mall run event.
DUBAI: Shoppers swapped shopping bags for sneakers as the Dubai Mallathon 2025 wrapped up with a Guinness World Record for the most runners in a mall run event. Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the initiative drew more than 40,000 participants across nine malls in the city.
The month-long event, launched in August, transformed Dubai’s shopping centres into indoor fitness tracks, logging more than 120 million steps in air-conditioned comfort. The record was clinched at Dubai Hills Mall, where 1,392 runners of all ages and nationalities joined the final race.
Organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council and supported by multiple government bodies, the Mallathon was designed to embed sport into daily life. The initiative aligns with the Year of Community, the Dubai Social Agenda 33, and the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033.
Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, praised the overwhelming youth participation, calling it proof of their role in shaping the nation’s present and future. “Sport is one of the most powerful platforms through which young people find both inspiration and self-expression,” he said.
The closing event featured a 42-kilometre marathon, where Victor Kiprono took first place, Godfrey Segule came second, and Rio Watson — representing the People of Determination — secured third. Winners were honoured with prizes to support their sporting development.
Beyond races, the Mallathon hosted special events including a women’s race marking Emirati Women’s Day. Ministries, government entities, and youth councils from across the UAE also joined, reinforcing the initiative’s nationwide impact.
With tracks laid out in iconic malls including The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Deira, and Dubai Marina Mall, the Mallathon cemented Dubai’s position as a global hub for innovative community sporting events.
