Hatta Dam is about to get very busy. Dubai Stand Up Paddle, presented by RTA, returns this weekend on Saturday, November 7, and Sunday, November 8, and it costs nothing to join. It is one of the flagship events of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, which runs until November 29.
What Is Happening On The Water
SUP, short for stand-up paddleboarding, means standing on a large board and pushing yourself forward with a long paddle. The two-day programme is open to every ability level, so a first-timer who has never stood on a board is as welcome as a seasoned paddler. Guided SUP sessions, kayaking, adaptive activities and a fun challenge are all part of the line-up. Families are in the plan too, which makes this an easy pick if you need a weekend outing with kids.
Expect company. Over 5,000 people turned up at the dam for last year’s two-day edition, according to a WAM report. In 2025, boards, paddles and life jackets were provided, and sessions began with a safety briefing.
New This Year: SUP Yoga In The Morning
Yoga on a floating board gets an extra slot in 2026. A 30-minute SUP Yoga session now runs in the morning, alongside the afternoon sessions that were offered last year. The event FAQs list a minimum age of 10 for yoga, so check that rule before you bring younger kids along.
Timings, Registration & Getting There
Sessions run until 5:30pm on both days. Some listings say the day starts at 8am, others mention later slots, so confirm the opening time on the official Dubai Fitness Challenge page. Organisers have arranged a free return shuttle from Dubai, and Hatta is roughly 90 minutes from the city by road.
One thing to watch. Registration opened in mid-October, but at least one event guide now says sign-ups have closed. Check dubaifitnesschallenge.com before you set out.
Make A Full Weekend Of It
Hatta rewards anyone who stays longer. Hiking trails, ziplining, kayaking and local cafes sit close to the dam, and many paddlers last year paired their sessions with these. Carry sunscreen, a change of clothes and plenty of water, since you will spend hours in the open.
The Dubai Fitness Challenge carries on after Hatta. Dubai Run is on November 22 and Dubai Yoga closes the month on November 29.
Cover Image Courtesy: Dubai Fitness Challenge/Website
FAQs
Is Dubai Stand Up Paddle free?
Yes, participation is free. Registration opened in October, but some event guides report that sign-ups have since closed, so check the official Dubai Fitness Challenge website before travelling.
Is there a free shuttle to Hatta Dam?
Yes. Organisers have arranged a complimentary return shuttle service from Dubai. Hatta is roughly 90 minutes from central Dubai by road, so check the official page for pick-up details if you would rather not drive.
