Hatta:Dubai Hatta Dam was abuzz with activity this weekend as the Dubai Stand Up Paddle event, presented by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), drew more than 5,000 participants. The event offered two days of fitness and family fun amidst the natural beauty of Hatta's mountain scenery.
According to Wam, the event was part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) and took place on November 7 and 8. This flagship event aimed to bring together residents and visitors of all ages to discover new ways to stay active while enjoying Hatta's spectacular surroundings.
Throughout the weekend, participants engaged in various activities, including 45-minute stand-up paddleboarding sessions suitable for all experience levels. The event also featured the SUP Fun Challenge, a buoy-marked course that tested participants' balance and technique. Additionally, kayaking was a popular activity, with free single and double kayaks available for registered participants.
SUP Yoga sessions provided a peaceful way for attendees to connect with nature, while adaptive water activities were offered for People of Determination. On land, a vibrant entertainment zone included inflatable ducks, a bouncy castle, and a face painting station, delighting participants of all ages.
Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, highlighted the event's role in promoting active lifestyles and bringing communities together. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), emphasized the importance of outdoor fitness in creating lasting memories and encouraging people to explore new experiences.
The Dubai Fitness Challenge 2026 continues with upcoming events like the Dubai Run and Dubai Yoga, set to conclude the 10th edition of the challenge. The initiative is supported by various partners and aims to encourage residents and visitors to adopt a more active lifestyle.