Abu Dhabi:Participants in the Active Abu Dhabi Move Challenge recorded 2.31 million steps and covered 1,735 kilometers across five shopping malls in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi during July and August 2026. The challenge was powered by the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre's citymoov app.
According to Emirates News Agency, the initiative aimed to integrate physical activity into residents' daily routines through interactive digital challenges. It was a collaboration between citymoov, an interactive digital platform owned by the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, and Active Abu Dhabi. The program extended beyond traditional exercise spaces and into shopping malls, part of everyday life for many residents.
The challenge allowed participants to transform routine shopping trips into engaging experiences that combined physical activity with exploration through digital challenges. This approach was designed to encourage movement in a fun and interactive way, suitable for all fitness levels. Dr. Rashed Alsuwaidi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, emphasized the use of digital technology and gamification to promote physical activity, highlighting the role of community partnerships in fostering a more vibrant community.
Mansour Al Dhaheri, Founder of Active Abu Dhabi, noted that the initiative aimed to make exercise more accessible, moving beyond traditional barriers by transforming familiar locations like shopping malls into active spaces. The program prioritized inclusivity, allowing participation at any fitness level without requiring a specific speed or ability.
The citymoov app offered location-based challenges, encouraging participants to explore their environment and integrate movement into their daily routines. This made physical activity a natural and seamless part of daily life, accessible to all community members.
To reach a wide audience, citymoov challenges were hosted at five shopping malls Al Dhafra Mall, Al Foah Mall, Al Wahda Mall, Dalma Mall, and Al Khalidiyah Mall.