Dubai Mallathon brings indoor fitness to DXB, transforming Terminal 3 into a unique running track.
Dubai: Passengers heading to check-in counters with suitcases in tow and families preparing for their journeys were greeted by an unusual scene at Dubai International Airport (DXB) Terminal 3, where groups of runners and walkers were completing laps inside one of the world’s busiest airports.
For the first time, DXB transformed part of Terminal 3 into an indoor fitness track, giving employees and members of the airport community the opportunity to swap boarding passes for running shoes as part of the Dubai Mallathon summer fitness initiative.
Unlike the mall-based editions, which are open to the public, the DXB event was invitation-only, bringing together Dubai Airports employees and members of the oneDXB community—a collaborative network comprising Dubai Airports and its partners, including Emirates, flydubai, dnata, Dubai Duty Free, and several government entities.
Participants completed a one-kilometre loop that passed through the departures entrance, baggage check-in counters, and security and immigration areas—routes typically used by travellers rushing to board their flights.
Many runners completed multiple laps, covering a total distance of two to three kilometres, before receiving refreshments, goodie bags, and participation medals at the finish line.
A family affair, driven by purpose
Among the participants was Team AngelWolf, a Dubai-based, CDA-licensed non-profit founded by Nick and Delphine Watson. Inspired by their son Rio, a Person of Determination living with a rare chromosome condition, the foundation promotes inclusion and adaptive sports, with the family having completed hundreds of endurance events together to support community participation and awareness.
The Watson family is familiar with Dubai’s fitness calendar, having participated in events including Dubai Run, previous editions of the Mallathon, and now the first airport edition.
“We are always taking part in sports events with Dubai Airport, and they always organise something exciting,” said Tia Watson, the couple’s daughter. “Turning this airport into a running and walking track—I don’t think it’s ever been done before. The opportunity to do this together as a family means a lot too. We completed the loop multiple times, and everyone here has been very supportive and encouraging.”
A unique workout at DXB
For many participants, the novelty of exercising in areas where they would normally be rushing to catch a flight was the highlight of the morning. Elisa Yana, who has worked at Dubai Duty Free’s executive office for 29 years, said it was her first Mallathon experience—and a memorable place to begin.
“It was so much fun and exciting. I have never seen this happen at the airport, which makes it even more unique,” she told Gulf News. “The vibe and environment were amazing, and it was a great way for us to connect and have fun as a team.”
Love Guleria from Dubai Airports’ strategy development department brought his son along for the event. “I’ve seen the Dubai Mallathon at malls, but seeing it at DXB was really fun. To be able to jog, walk, and run around this part of the airport was brilliant,” he said. “I’ve taken part in the mall runs too, which are also enjoyable, but it’s pretty cool to be able to say you completed one inside an airport.”
Keeping participants energised throughout the morning was Daniel Mungai, known as Coach Dan, a Dubai-based fitness trainer who has lived in the UAE for six years.
Coach Dan, who has taken part in previous Dubai Mallathon events, led warm-up sessions, motivated participants, and helped build an energetic atmosphere before the laps began.
“I love doing this; it is the best part of my job,” he said. “Some people are shy and need a little encouragement and a positive attitude before they start. I speak to people of all ages and cultures—young, old, and people of determination. Encouraging everyone to take part and enjoy the activity is really rewarding.”
Bringing fitness indoors during Dubai summer
The DXB edition formed part of Dubai Mallathon, a citywide summer fitness initiative that transforms major indoor shopping centres into air-conditioned walking and running tracks during the hottest months of the year.
Launched last summer and returning this year, the initiative is being held across seven major malls in Dubai and is free for residents and visitors of all ages and nationalities.
More than 40,000 participants have taken part in Dubai Mallathon activities so far.
The initiative was launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, to make exercise more accessible during summer while promoting healthier lifestyles and stronger community connections.
Dubai Mallathon aims to integrate fitness into everyday routines by transforming familiar public spaces into destinations for movement, community engagement, and wellbeing.
