One of Dubai's biggest thoroughfares was closed to traffic this morning, as 146,000 runners took part in the Dubai Run.
Families and children made up much of the crowd for the fun run, which has two routes along Sheikh Zayed Road, one of 5km and one of 10km.
The annual event is the culmination of the month-long Dubai Fitness Challenge, where UAE citizens, residents and visitors are invited to take part in 30 minutes of exercise, every day for 30 days.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the Crown Prince of Dubai who is the figurehead of the Challenge was at the start line of the race, next to the Museum of the Future.
Both routes go through the heart of the city and end near the Dubai World Trade Centre, but the longer 10km run takes in Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa.
The first run took place in 2019, and in 2020 it was reorganised to take place on a variety of different routes due to the need to socially distance during the pandemic.
The annual Dubai Ride is also very popular, and took place earlier this month, with more than 30,000 cyclists pedalling down Sheikh Zayed Road on November 5.
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Riders capture the action on camera during Dubai Ride on Sheikh Zayed Road. All photos: Ruel Pableo for The National -
This is the second year Dubai Ride has taken place as part of Dubai Fitness Challenge. -
It offers cyclists a unique opportunity to pedal along Dubai’s main traffic artery against the backdrop of some of the city’s most famous landmarks. -
Sheikh Zayed Road and Downtown Dubai are transformed into cycling routes. -
The 4km course is a scenic route around Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard and Burj Khalifa for families. -
The 14km general route takes thousands of participants past the iconic Museum of the Future, Emirates Towers and Downtown Dubai. -
Participants set off. -
Cyclists take a well-earned break. -
Early participants ride along with a Dubai Police patrol car. -
The Dubai Ride is enjoyed by young and old. -
The Dubai Ride started early in the morning when it was still misty along Sheikh Zayed Road. -
The Dubai Fitness Challenge is running for the fifth year. -
Cycling makes for thirsty work. -
The sun rises above the Museum of the Future and Emirates Towers. -
All smiles at the end of the course.
