Let’s be honest: training for a marathon in the Middle East is a lesson in atmospheric endurance. By the time June rolls around, even a 5K at 5:00 AM feels like running through a hairdryer. While we all love the grit of an outdoor trail, there comes a point where “pushing through” becomes a health hazard.
Enter the Mallathon.
What started as a way for seniors to get their steps in has evolved into a legitimate summer strategy for serious runners. UAE malls aren’t just for shopping anymore—they are climate-controlled, high-security training grounds with built-in hydration stations (also known as Costa Coffee).
If you are looking to keep your legs moving while the mercury hits 45°C, here are the best spots to get your miles in.
1. Dubai Hills Mall (The Track)
This is currently the gold standard for indoor running in Dubai. The mall actually features a dedicated 2.5km indoor track. It’s flat, incredibly clean and the air conditioning is consistent. It’s the closest you’ll get to an outdoor park feel without the humidity.
2. The Dubai Mall (The Early Bird Special)
If you get there between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM, the ground floor of Dubai Mall is a runner’s paradise. A single loop can get you nearly 3.5km. The “Fashion Avenue” section offers a smooth surface that’s easy on the joints, though you’ll have to dodge the occasional early-morning delivery trolley.
3. Abu Dhabi: Reem Mall
Reem Mall has quickly become a favorite for the capital’s running community. It’s spacious, bright and offers long, wide corridors that allow you to maintain a steady pace without constant pivoting.
4. Festival Plaza (Jebel Ali)
Often overlooked, this mall is usually much quieter than the ones in the city center. It’s a great spot for those living on the “Dubai Marina” end of town who want to get a 10K done without seeing a single soul.
Planning for the Outdoor Season? While mall loops are great for surviving July and August, they are just a bridge to the “real” race season. If you are using these indoor miles to build your base, make sure you have your goals set for when the weather breaks.
[Top Marathons of Middle East: Check out the full 2026 Middle East Race & Marathon Calendar here]
A Few “Mallathon” Etiquette Tips
If you’re going to swap the track for the mall, there are a few unwritten rules to keep in mind:
-
Go Early: Most malls allow walkers and runners in from 6:00 AM, but the shops don’t open until 10:00 AM. That four-hour window is your sweet spot.
-
The “Anti-Clockwise” Rule: Most groups naturally move anti-clockwise. Follow the flow to avoid head-on collisions with a power-walker.
-
Check your GPS: Be warned—GPS usually fails inside a mall. If you are a data nerd, you might need a “foot pod” sensor or just rely on your perceived effort and the mall’s own distance markers.
The “Mallathon” might not have the glory of a desert sunrise, but it’s the secret weapon that keeps us fit enough to tackle the big races in the winter.
