Robots Join Mall Runners in Dubai Mallathon Fitness Event

Visitors to Mirdif City Centre mall experienced an unexpected twist during this weekend’s Dubai Mallathon fitness event: robotic companions joining the morning run. A Unitree robot and a robotic dog seamlessly integrated into the crowd of health enthusiasts, jogging alongside human participants in a striking display of technology meeting community wellness.

The mechanical “athletes” quickly became the stars of the event. They ran in sync with the participants, paused for photos with delighted onlookers, and even offered robotic handshakes to passersby. Footage and images of the unique spectacle rapidly spread across social media platforms, capturing widespread attention and going viral.

This isn’t the Unitree robot’s first moment in the Dubai spotlight. It previously made headlines when it met His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, during a demonstration at Dubai Future Labs. Videos of the robot navigating city streets had also garnered significant online interest prior to the mall event. Its presence at the Mallathon further cements its status as a recognizable ambassador for Dubai’s technological ambitions.

The Unitree robot is slated for a permanent public role soon, becoming part of the interactive exhibits at the Museum of the Future. There, it will greet visitors and showcase cutting-edge innovations. Its participation in the Mallathon serves as a preview of this integration of advanced robotics into everyday experiences.

The Dubai Mallathon itself is a novel initiative transforming the emirate’s major shopping centers into dedicated fitness routes. Throughout August, from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM daily, residents and visitors are invited to run or walk along specially marked paths within seven prominent malls: The Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills Mall, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Marina Mall, and The Springs Souk. The surprise appearance of the running robots at Mirdif City Centre added a unique, futuristic dimension to this community health program, blending exercise with a glimpse into the city’s tech-forward vision.