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

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 attracted more than 5,000 participants for two days of fitness and family fun.

Held on November 7 and 8, the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) flagship event brought together residents and visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy Hatta's spectacular mountain scenery while discovering new ways to stay active.

As DFC celebrates its landmark 10th edition, the event once again demonstrated how fitness, adventure and community can come together in one of Dubai's most distinctive natural destinations.

Throughout the weekend, paddlers of all experience levels took to Hatta Dam’s calm waters for guided 45-minute stand-up paddleboarding sessions.

From first-time participants learning to find their balance to experienced paddlers enjoying the mountain views, the sessions offered an accessible and enjoyable way to get moving.

Boards, paddles and life jackets were provided, with safety briefings helping participants feel confident before taking to the water.

Adding an element of excitement, the SUP Fun Challenge invited adults to put their balance, technique and stamina to the test along a buoy-marked course of approximately 500 metres.

The 30-minute activity brought a playful, competitive spirit to the weekend, encouraging participants to challenge themselves while enjoying the spectacular surroundings.

Kayaking was another popular way to explore Hatta Dam, with complimentary single and double kayaks available to registered participants.

SUP Yoga also returned with an expanded programme for 2026, introducing a new morning session alongside the afternoon experiences.

Led by experienced instructors, the 30-minute sessions combined movement, balance and relaxation on the water, offering participants a peaceful way to connect with nature while working towards their daily 30x30 goals.

Reflecting DFC’s commitment to making fitness accessible to everyone, adaptive water activities were also offered for People of Determination, supported by specially trained teams.

The weekend celebration extended beyond paddleboarding with a vibrant entertainment zone that delighted participants of all ages.

Adding a playful touch to the experience, a family of floating inflatable ducks became a popular attraction, with participants able to interact with them during their SUP sessions.

On land, a bouncy castle provided entertainment for children, while a face painting station welcomed both children and adults throughout the day.

"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," said Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council.

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, added: "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."

Dubai Stand Up Paddle draws more than 5,000 participants to Hatta Dam. The challenge, presented by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), was held on 7 and 8 November. pic.twitter.com/dVXHvmvcNw

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 9, 2026

Dubai Stand Up Paddle, presented by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), attracted more than 5,000 participants to Hatta Dam on 7 and 8 November for 2 days of fitness, family fun and memorable outdoor experiences. pic.twitter.com/OdwuArlumC

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 9, 2026

With Dubai Ride presented by DP World and Dubai Stand Up Paddle now complete, Dubai Fitness Challenge 2026 continues to build momentum towards its remaining flagship events.

Dubai Run returns on Sunday, November 22, transforming Sheikh Zayed Road into an extraordinary running route as thousands of residents and visitors come together to experience Dubai's iconic landmarks on foot.

The 10th edition of DFC will conclude with Dubai Yoga presented by MHERO on Sunday, November 29.

Taking place beneath the iconic 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, open throughout the 30-day challenge, together with more than 30 Fitness Hubs and thousands of activities across the city, continue to offer residents and visitors of all ages and abilities opportunities to discover new ways to stay active.

Dubai Fitness Challenge encourages residents and visitors to embrace an active lifestyle, develop healthy habits and make lasting changes that extend beyond the 30-day Challenge.