Dubai Sports Council launches Active Summer 2026 with citywide sports programme
Mall runs, inclusive programmes and elite tournaments headline packed summer calendar
DUBAI – The Dubai Sports Council (DSC) has announced the launch of its “Active Summer” initiative, running until August 31, 2026.
The programme is designed to strengthen Dubai’s position as a leading year-round sports destination, offering a wide spectrum of activities across the emirate. It brings together outdoor and indoor sporting events in collaboration with national institutions and event organisers, covering disciplines ranging from water and marine sports to snow and mountain activities. The agenda also includes indoor arena competitions, mall-based races, and dedicated programmes for People of Determination.
Officials say the initiative aims to ensure broad community participation, encouraging residents and visitors of all ages and nationalities to stay physically active throughout the summer season.
Indoor action
The initiative features a packed indoor sporting calendar tailored to different fitness levels and age groups. Major venues across Dubai will host tournaments and recreational activities designed to promote accessibility and sustained participation during the hotter months.
Indoor sports arenas, community centres, and commercial spaces will be transformed into active hubs, supporting both competitive and recreational engagement.
The DSC has coordinated with multiple partners to ensure a diverse programme that balances elite-level competition with mass participation events. Activities span running, fitness challenges, team sports, and specialised training sessions, reinforcing Dubai’s strategy to make sport a daily lifestyle choice rather than a seasonal pursuit.
Dubai Mallathon
A major highlight of the programme is the “Dubai Mallathon”, scheduled from June 15 to September 15. Launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the initiative has already seen remarkable engagement, drawing more than 40,000 participants.
The indoor running and walking series takes place in fully air-conditioned shopping malls, making it accessible during the peak summer period. The Mallathon has also earned a Guinness World Record for the largest indoor mall race of its kind, reflecting strong community participation and organisational scale. The format allows both amateur and professional runners to compete in a safe and controlled environment while promoting fitness across diverse segments of society.
Inclusive summer
Dubai Sports World will operate from June 27 to August 25, serving as a central hub for indoor sports and tournaments.
This year’s edition introduces “Dubai Kids World” alongside programmes designed for senior citizens in collaboration with Thukher Club, focusing on wellbeing and active ageing. In addition, the “Summer Activity for People of Determination” runs from June 22 to July 30 under the theme “Our Summer is Beautiful”, offering tailored sporting experiences to enhance participation and athletic development. These initiatives reflect the council’s emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring that opportunities are available across all community groups regardless of age or ability, while promoting sustained physical activity throughout the summer.
Winter sports
The programme also brings international sporting names and competitions into the summer calendar. Former England and Manchester United footballer Rio Ferdinand, alongside Kate Ferdinand, will host the third round of the “One Body” initiative, featuring elite global athletes.
A wide range of competitions is also scheduled, including the Dubai Schools Games basketball tournament, esports events, Apex Fitness Games, football academies championship, and various community races and championships across multiple disciplines.
At Ski Dubai, the winter sports segment includes the Freestyle Skiing Grand Prix, alpine skiing and snowboarding camps, and training programmes featuring international teams such as British UNIQ, Saudi and Paralympic squads, Uzbekistan’s Paralympic alpine team, and the NITRO pro team.
Weekly Freestyle Ski Nights and the Hyrox ice fitness challenge further add to the seasonal sporting line-up.