On November 3rd, 2024, more than 5,000 women from different walks of life, cultures, and age groups converged at the iconic venue for the largest women-only running event in the region. Organised by Planb Events with the backing of the Dubai Sports Council and Expo City Dubai, with a special thanks to HE Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council and Nasser Al Rahma, Assistant Secretary General, Dubai Sports Council, this event emphasised not only the competitive spirit but also the camaraderie, inclusivity in diversity, and wellness of women.
The event featured races in 3k, 5k and 10k categories, offering opportunities for both seasoned athletes and first-time runners to participate and shine. Each race culminated in an impressive show of talent and dedication, showcasing diverse capabilities and strong personal achievements.
In the highly competitive 10k race, Katerina Machova emerged as the overall winner, clocking an impressive time of 0:40:03.1. She was closely followed by Refref Yimer, who finished with a commendable time of 0:41:29.1, and Akshita Arunprasanna, who crossed the line at 0:41:57.6. In the Emirati category, Alya Al Shamsi claimed the top spot, finishing with a time of 0:44:00.5, while Noura Al Khalaf and Alima Rahman secured second and third places, respectively.
The day was more than just a race; it was an engaging festival with attractions and activities that resonated with the community: The anthem of the event, performed by Ahmed Al Hosani, the first Emirati classical singer, added a touch of pride and cultural connection. Celebrity presence, Ahsan Khan and Mary Cristine amplified the event’s profile making an appearance that delighted participants and attendees. High-energy cheerleading acts pumped up the crowd and added to the electrifying atmosphere of Expo City.
The multi-day Run Village, supported by premier sponsors such as Asics, Rove Hotels, Tesla, BinSina, Holland & Barrett, L’Oreal, Aldar, Mai Dubai, Pocari Sweat, FadeFit, Kibsons, Mediclinic, Gold Collagen and more, turned the event into a festival of wellness and excitement.
The event was designed to be inclusive and welcoming, with a focus on motivating participants from all backgrounds. Runners shared stories of triumph, personal goals achieved, and the sense of unity experienced on race day. Mothers, daughters, friends, and seasoned athletes mingled and supported each other, creating a profound sense of sisterhood.
The Women’s Run 2024 proved to be more than a race; it reinforced the importance of fostering a supportive community. The event attracted runners and non-runners alike, fostering conversations about wellness, perseverance, and female empowerment. Its success reflected Dubai’s commitment to being a hub of health, wellness, and inclusion.
Commenting on the event, Founder and Chairman of Plan b Group, Women’s Run Race Chairman, Dr. Harmeek Singh, “Every stride celebrated during the run is a thread woven into the fabric of shared strength, where women soar fiercely and men stand proudly by their side, crafting a powerful tapestry of emotional resilience. The women’s run 2024 proves that it is more than a physical activity and is an emotion.”
