The Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) will return for its ninth edition from November 1 to 30, 2025, aligning with the UAE’s Year of the Community. Organisers also revealed a new brand identity reflecting the initiative’s continued impact on public health and wellbeing.
Focus on community
Launched in 2017 by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the initiative encourages residents and visitors to commit to 30 minutes of daily physical activity for 30 days. Over eight editions, more than 13 million people have participated.
Khalfan Belhoul, Vice Chairman of Dubai Sports Council and CEO of Dubai Future Foundation, said:
“With 2025 declared the Year of Community in the UAE, I am confident that this year’s edition will once again unite friends, families, and organisations in the shared pursuit of a healthier, more active lifestyle.”
New and returning events
This year’s calendar includes daily free fitness events, community classes, and a new highlight: Dubai Yoga, a sunset session closing the challenge on November 30.
Popular events will return, including:
Dubai Ride (November 2), presented by DP World
Dubai Stand-Up Paddle (November 8–9)
Dubai Run (November 23), presented by Mai Dubai
The 2024 edition saw over 2.7 million participants, a 14% rise from the previous year. Data showed 18% of participants improved their physical fitness, 15% reported better mental wellbeing, and 14% noted reduced anxiety and higher self-esteem.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, said the DFC plays a central role in promoting active lifestyles and advancing the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. He added the new brand reflects the initiative’s growing influence in making Dubai a leading global destination for wellness and quality of life.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
