Dubai Stand Up Paddle draws more than 5,000 participants to Hatta Dam

Dubai: Hatta Dam came alive with paddleboards, kayaks and outdoor adventure this weekend as Dubai Stand Up Paddle, presented by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), attracted more than 5,000 participants for two days of fitness, family activities and outdoor experiences. Held on 7 and 8 November, the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) flagship event brought together residents and visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy Hatta’s mountain scenery while discovering new ways to stay active. As DFC marks its 10th edition, the event demonstrated how fitness, adventure and community can come together in one of Dubai’s distinctive natural destinations. Throughout the weekend, participants of all experience levels took to Hatta Dam’s calm waters for guided 45-minute stand-up paddleboarding sessions. First-time paddlers learned the basics, while more experienced participants took the opportunity to enjoy the mountain setting. Boards, paddles and life jackets were provided, with safety briefings held before participants took to the water. The SUP Fun Challenge invited adults to test their balance, technique and stamina on a buoy-marked course of approximately 500 metres. The 30-minute activity added a competitive element to the programme and encouraged participants to challenge themselves while enjoying the surroundings. Kayaking was another popular way to explore Hatta Dam, with complimentary single and double kayaks available to registered participants. Friends and families took to the water together and experienced Hatta’s natural landscape from a different perspective. SUP Yoga also returned with an expanded programme for 2026, adding a new morning session alongside the afternoon experiences. Led by experienced instructors, the 30-minute sessions combined movement, balance and relaxation on the water, helping participants work towards their daily 30x30 goals. Reflecting DFC’s commitment to making fitness accessible, adaptive water activities were offered for People of Determination with support from specially trained teams, enabling participants of different abilities to take part in the weekend’s activities. The programme extended beyond the water with an entertainment zone for participants of all ages. A family of floating inflatable ducks became a popular attraction during the SUP sessions, while a bouncy castle entertained children and a face-painting station welcomed children and adults throughout the day. His Excellency Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, said: “Dubai Stand Up Paddle presented by RTA is a wonderful example of how outdoor sport can bring communities together and encourage people to embrace healthier, more active lifestyles. In the UAE’s ‘Year of Family’, it was particularly rewarding to see families and participants of all ages and abilities coming together to enjoy two days of fitness and adventure. With Hatta Dam’s stunning natural surroundings providing the perfect setting, the event offered an opportunity to explore new activities, spend quality time with loved ones and experience the joy of staying active together.” Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: “Dubai Stand Up Paddle presented by RTA once again demonstrated the unique power of outdoor fitness to bring people together and create lasting memories. Over two days, participants had the opportunity to step away from their daily routines, reconnect with nature and enjoy unforgettable experiences with friends and family. As we celebrate the 10th edition of Dubai Fitness Challenge, events like this remind us that staying active is about more than exercise. It is about discovering new places, sharing meaningful moments and creating memories that last long after the event. The continued success of Dubai Stand Up Paddle reflects our commitment to making fitness an enjoyable and rewarding part of life in Dubai.” With Dubai Ride presented by DP World and Dubai Stand Up Paddle now complete, Dubai Fitness Challenge 2026 continues towards its remaining flagship events. Dubai Run returns on Sunday, 22 November, transforming Sheikh Zayed Road into a running route as thousands of residents and visitors come together to experience Dubai’s landmarks on foot. The 10th edition of DFC will conclude with Dubai Yoga presented by MHERO on Sunday, 29 November. Taking place beneath the Gate at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the event will bring participants together for a morning of yoga, mindfulness and wellbeing. Alongside the flagship events, three free 30x30 Fitness Villages at Kite Beach, Zabeel Park and Al Warqa’a will remain open throughout the 30-day challenge. More than 30 Fitness Hubs and thousands of activities across the city also continue to give residents and visitors of all ages and abilities opportunities to discover new ways to stay active. The official Dubai Fitness Challenge website confirms that the 30x30 programme runs from 31 October to 29 November, en