Over 16,500 participants, including 3,500 children, converged at Za’abeel Park in Dubai for the 15th annual Beat Diabetes Walk. This significant event, a cornerstone of the Landmark Group’s Beat Diabetes program, aimed to raise crucial awareness about diabetes, with a particular focus on the growing concern of pediatric diabetes in the UAE.
Dubai Unites for Diabetes Awareness: 15th Annual Walk Draws Record Crowds
The 15th annual Beat Diabetes Walk in Dubai saw an impressive turnout of over 16,500 residents, including 3,500 children, at Za’abeel Park. The event, a key initiative of the Landmark Group’s Beat Diabetes program, was held as part of the UAE’s Year of Community and the ‘Forward Society’ pillar of the “We the UAE 2031 Vision.” Its primary goal was to encourage early detection, prevention, and effective management of diabetes through promoting healthy lifestyle choices.
Addressing Pediatric Diabetes
A significant emphasis of this year’s walk was placed on pediatric diabetes, a rising concern in the UAE. Medical professionals have highlighted the increasing prevalence of Type 1 diabetes among children, with reports indicating that 24,000 children in the UAE were diagnosed in 2024 alone. The event underscored the importance of addressing this trend and providing support for affected families.
Community-Wide Participation and Initiatives
The Beat Diabetes Walk garnered widespread support from various sectors, including:
- Private organizations
- Government entities
- Schools
- Community groups
This broad participation demonstrated a collective commitment to raising awareness, promoting early detection and prevention, and advocating for healthy lifestyles across all generations. A notable highlight was the collaboration between Landmark Group and GEMS Education for the Superkidz Writing Competition, which encouraged students to explore healthy living themes through storytelling. The contest received over a thousand entries from Grade 4 and Grade 5 students across GEMS schools.
Health Services and Expert Endorsements
Following the customary 2-km walk, participants engaged in a variety of activities, including fitness sessions, sports events, and educational workshops. The event also provided valuable free health services:
- Blood glucose testing via the ‘Wellness on Wheels’ program by Al Jalila Foundation
- Influenza vaccinations
- Nutritional consultations from Emirates Health Services
The event was inaugurated by prominent figures including Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman of Landmark Group; Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary-General of the Dubai Sports Council; and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation. Both Saeed Hareb and Dr. Zarooni emphasized the critical role of active lifestyles and community-driven health initiatives in combating diabetes and fostering overall well-being.
Key Takeaways
- The 15th Beat Diabetes Walk saw over 16,500 participants, including 3,500 children, highlighting a strong community commitment to health.
- The event specifically addressed the growing concern of pediatric diabetes in the UAE.
- It promoted early detection, prevention, and management of diabetes through healthy lifestyle choices.
- Collaborations with organizations like GEMS Education and Al Jalila Foundation provided educational and health services.
- Proceeds from the event contribute to diabetes treatment and research through the Al Jalila Foundation.
Since its inception in 2009, the Beat Diabetes campaign has been instrumental in raising awareness, supporting treatment, and promoting healthier lifestyles. Nisha Jagtiani, Group Director at Landmark Group, expressed overwhelming gratitude for the community’s support, reaffirming the group’s dedication to the initiative and its mission to foster a healthier future for everyone.
Sources:
- 16,500 attend 15th Beat Diabetes Walk in Dubai, Gulf News.