The run started little after 6.30am as police vehicles including a cyber Tesla truck led the way to ensure safety
KT Photos: Shihab
The Crown Prince of Dubai took centre stage on Sunday, November 24, as he led thousands of runners in the highly anticipated Dubai Run along the iconic Sheikh Zayed Road.
The run kicked off just after 6.30am, with a fleet of police vehicles, including a futuristic cyber Tesla truck, leading the way to ensure the safety of all participants. As the runners set off, they were greeted by the striking sight of paragliders soaring above, adding a burst of colour to the early morning sky.
A team of police officers mounted on horseback, along with other security personnel, helped clear the roads and maintain a smooth flow of the event, where 278,000 people took to the usually car-packed road.
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Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, became a part of the thronging crowds that covered the road in foot traffic, instead of the usual rows of vehicles.
The sea of enthusiastic participants, many of whom wore green, ran alongside Sheikh Hamdan, known affectionately as Fazza, dressed in a dark blue shirt and donning the blue registration number 003, as they tackled the 10km route.
The event once again highlighted Dubai's status as one of the fittest cities in the world, drawing runners from all corners of the city and beyond.
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For many participants, the Dubai Run is an annual highlight.
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Residents took part in the run, not minding waking up early on a Sunday morning.
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Abu Dhabi resident Siddique, who travelled to Dubai with his family, described the event as a must-attend. "We drove in on Saturday night and parked at a relative's house to be here," he said. "We only slept for an hour before heading to the start line at 5am. The energy and vibe of the event are unmatched. It's a family tradition we never miss."
Siddique with his family
The free run marked the closing day of the 30-day Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) that has turned the city into an open gym.
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Nasreen Abdulla is a Special Correspondent covering food, tech and human interest stories. When not challenged by deadlines, you’ll find her pulling off submissions on the jiu jitsu mats.
The creative spirit has always been part of Shihab’s DNA. When he captures a moment through his lens, it is eternalised for the viewer through the photographer. With several prestigious awards to his credit, Shihab’s works have also been part of many photo exhibitions in the city. Vocal through his creations, Shihab is currently bringing out the best of digital photography and also edits video packages for Khaleej Times.