City streets that normally teem with early-morning traffic transformed into vast running lanes as the seventh edition of the event drew a record turnout. More than 307,000 participants took part in the event, surpassing the previous year’s figure of 278,000. The highly inclusive free event offers both 5 km and 10 km distances and is open to people of all ages and fitness levels.
The race commenced early at 06:30 on the prominent thoroughfare adjacent to the major landmark, and included both masses of walkers and competitive runners. The 10 km run finishes near the financial district, while the 5 km route ends close to the key shopping and entertainment hub. The event is part of a 30-day city-wide fitness initiative aimed at promoting an active lifestyle.
To accommodate the event’s scale, the transport authority extended metro operating hours starting at 03:00 and implemented major road closures between 03:00 and 10:00 along the main running corridor and surrounding roads. Toll rates on the city’s electronic system were adjusted to ease traffic and support the influx of participants and spectators. Alternative driving routes were advised for motorists.
Organisers reported that the event appeals not only to serious runners but also to families, first-time participants and individuals with varying abilities. Dedicated zones were provided for participants with physical disabilities and volunteers were stationed at start and finish areas to assist. Among the crowd, some ran clad in costumes, others jogged with strollers or pushed wheelchairs, while veteran participants described the experience as emphasising community more than competition.
The event’s route wound past some of the city’s most iconic structures including the architectural landmark opened in 2022 and the world’s tallest tower, offering a scenic backdrop to the early-morning exercise. Participants gathered in matching blue event shirts and timing began with a ceremonial flag-raising at the start line.
Public-transport usage surged as participants were directed to use specific metro stations closest to race-start zones and ensure their travel cards held sufficient credit. Many commuters were encouraged to avoid driving altogether owing to the major road closures and altered traffic flow. Authorities emphasised that normal traffic flow would resume after the scheduled re-opening of the main road corridor at 10:00.
By aligning a mass-participation event with urban infrastructure adjustments and a broader wellness campaign, the organisers demonstrated an expanding ambition to embed fitness into the city’s social fabric. The free nature of the run and its accessibility to diverse groups support this goal, as do ancillary activities such as the month-long fitness challenge of 30 minutes’ activity for 30 days.
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