The third edition of the Dubai Stand Up Paddle event, presented by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and part of the vibrant Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC), drew an unprecedented crowd of over 5,000 participants to Hatta Dam this past weekend (November 10-11, 2025). Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Hajar Mountains, the event delivered two days of immersive outdoor adventure, showcasing the fusion of fitness, nature, and community engagement central to Dubai’s commitment to well-being.
Embracing Fitness in Nature’s Playground
The flagship DFC outdoor activation, organized by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Dubai Sports Council (DSC), cemented its position as a must-attend fixture on the annual fitness calendar. The expanded, popular two-day format encouraged participants to fully embrace the “Find Your Challenge” spirit, integrating their paddling experience with Hatta’s broader outdoor offerings, including hiking trails and local dining.
Paddlers and kayakers of all ages navigated the crystal-clear waters from sunrise to sunset, contributing to their personal 30×30 fitness goals. Complimentary Stand Up Paddle (SUP) training sessions were available throughout the weekend, providing comprehensive safety briefings and all necessary equipment—boards, paddles, and life jackets—to ensure confidence and accessibility for both novices and seasoned water sports enthusiasts.
Beyond the core SUP activity offered to registered participants, attendees enjoyed complimentary kayaking, broadening the scope of the aquatic adventure. As dusk settled, the atmosphere shifted to tranquility with guided 30-minute sunset yoga sessions held directly on the water. These mindful sessions blended physical activity with reflection, offering participants a perfect way to conclude their active day.
Extended Amenities Enhance Family Experience
The event successfully transformed into a complete weekend destination, largely thanks to enhanced family-friendly amenities and a lively entertainment zone. Families were delighted by a massive inflatable duck, which quickly became a popular photo opportunity. Children enjoyed complimentary popcorn and a bouncy castle, while a dedicated face painting station catered to all ages.
Food and beverage vendors offered refreshments and ice lollies, effectively ensuring comfort despite the heat. This seamless blend of fitness and fun underscored the event’s mission to make active living an enjoyable experience for the entire family.
His Excellency Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, commented on the event’s success, stating that the decision to expand to two days was instrumental. “The response to Dubai Stand Up Paddle… has been phenomenal,” he said. “Hatta Dam continues to highlight the UAE’s natural beauty and reinforce our commitment to accessible, outdoor fitness experiences.”
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the transformative power of fitness experienced outdoors. “Participants didn’t just complete a workout, they created lasting memories with friends and family in one of our most stunning locations,” he noted. “The enthusiasm we witnessed reinforces that outdoor fitness activations like this are essential to building healthier, more connected communities.”
Momentum Builds for DFC Flagship Events
With the Dubai Stand Up Paddle event concluded, the Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025 maintains significant momentum through its remaining flagship showcases. The focus now shifts to the highly anticipated Dubai Run, presented by Mai Dubai, which will see hundreds of thousands take to Sheikh Zayed Road on November 23 for the world’s largest free community run.
The month will conclude with the inaugural Dubai Yoga event on November 30 at Zabeel Park, aiming to bring thousands together for a collective moment of mindfulness and balance. These pillar events, coupled with three free 30×30 Fitness Villages and 24 Community Fitness Hubs across the city, ensure that participants have ample daily opportunities to complete the 30-day challenge and forge a path toward a more active lifestyle.
The Dubai Stand-Up Paddle event was presented in partnership with Association Partners Decathlon and Hatta Kayak, and Official Partner Mai Dubai. Community members are encouraged to register at the official Dubai Fitness Challenge website to join the remaining activities and discover their own route to wellness.