More than 600 women took part in a Dubai Mallathon event at Dubai Mall as Dubai Sports Council marked Emirati Women’s Day.
The morning brought women from across the community for a morning of physical activity, with the council using the occasion to encourage more women to make sport and exercise part of their daily lives.
Five Emirati athletes were also recognised for their achievements in sport.
Hana Al Nabulsi, Maryam Karim, Maha Al Shehhi, Noura Khalf and Shahd Bu Debs were honoured during the event.
The recognition put the focus on Emirati women already competing and achieving in sport, while giving younger athletes examples to follow.
“Empowering women athletically is an investment in the health, happiness, and vitality of the entire community.”
Saeed Hareb, secretary general of Dubai Sports Council, said increasing women’s participation in sport can have an impact beyond competition.
“The Dubai Sports Council is keen to be strongly present on this precious national occasion, driven by our belief that empowering women athletically is an investment in the health, happiness, and vitality of the entire community,” he said.
The Dubai Mallathon has been running inside Dubai Mall as a way of giving residents an indoor space to walk and exercise during the summer months.
Naima Ahli, CEO of Dubai Women Establishment, said physical activity forms an important part of a balanced lifestyle and welcomed the participation of the organisation’s employees in the event.
“We were delighted to participate in the Dubai Mallathon organised by the Dubai Sports Council in celebration of Emirati Women’s Day, which truly reflected the spirit of community engagement and the importance of sports in building a healthier, more vibrant society,” she said.
