The initiative Walk 1000, launched by Active Abu Dhabi in collaboration with Emirates Foundation and PureHealth, introduces a powerful community-driven health program designed to inspire an active lifestyle across the emirate. Launching on November 1st, 2024, the initiative has already garnered broad support from prominent organizations including the Department of Community Development, Abu Dhabi Police, and the Ministry of Defense, with sponsorship from Mubadala, Ali & Sons, Al Masaood Energy, Aldar Properties, Bayanat, and EDGE.
What is ‘Walk 1000’?
The Walk 1000 initiative is a massive health and wellness campaign inviting the Abu Dhabi community to participate in a 1,000-kilometer walking challenge. Not only does it encourage participants to embrace healthier habits, but it also provides an exceptional opportunity to explore 30 culturally and environmentally significant sites across Abu Dhabi. This unique route covers remarkable landmarks, from Al Sila in the west to the Liwa desert, through Jebel Hafeet, and concluding in Al Wathba. Along the journey, participants will pass through iconic locations that speak to the emirate’s deep cultural, historical, and environmental heritage.
At the heart of the Walk 1000 challenge lies a flagship 1,000-kilometer journey—equivalent to approximately 24 marathons. A dedicated team of 10 elite athletes will walk an average of 33 kilometers daily, leading the charge and setting a visible example of endurance and commitment. The athletes participating in the challenge include:
- Mansour Al Dhaheri
- Faisal Alketbi
- Khalifa Almazrouei
- Ayesha Almemari
- Khalfan Alkaabi
- Ohoud Al Dhaheri
- Jurry Ducay
- Becky Gosney
- Tarek Ahmed
- Daniel Tesfaye
The event will be documented and is scheduled for release in a documentary to air globally in March 2025. This documentary will highlight Abu Dhabi’s breathtaking landscapes and the cultural landmarks that make it unique, thereby shining a global spotlight on the emirate’s beauty and cultural heritage.
A Journey Through Abu Dhabi’s Heritage, Nature, and Technology
The route for the Walk 1000 event has been meticulously curated to include locations of deep cultural, historical, and environmental value. Participants and viewers will experience landmarks that narrate Abu Dhabi’s rich history and heritage. Each stop serves as a reminder of the community’s identity and values, while raising awareness of the importance of heritage preservation.
Additionally, the route also includes environmentally significant locations such as the Baynounah Houbara Bird Sanctuary, where biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource management are at the forefront. Sites like these emphasize the importance of preserving the environment for future generations.
Technological landmarks, such as the Al Sadeem Observatory, will highlight Abu Dhabi’s ongoing dedication to scientific research and innovation. These sites embody the emirate’s vision for a future built on technological excellence, solidifying Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a hub of research, technology, and environmental responsibility.
Community Involvement in Walk 1000: Opportunities to Participate
The Walk 1000 initiative is designed for the entire Abu Dhabi community. Beyond the flagship 1,000-kilometer journey undertaken by elite athletes, there will be numerous opportunities for the public to get involved. Community members are encouraged to take part by completing 6,000 steps each day over 30 days, using the PureHealth Pura app to track their progress.
Participants can stay informed about the event details and opportunities to join via Active Abu Dhabi’s social media channels, where further announcements will be made. This aspect of the initiative aims to bring the community together, encouraging all individuals to engage in physical activity, regardless of age or physical ability.
Leadership Statements on Walk 1000
The Walk 1000 initiative is strongly endorsed by leaders within the Emirates Foundation and PureHealth. His Excellency Ahmed Taleb Al Shamsi, CEO of the Emirates Foundation, has expressed his excitement about the program, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with our valued partners and announce this unique sports and health challenge. This initiative embodies our goal of inspiring the Abu Dhabi community to prioritize health and wellness, regardless of age or ability.”
The initiative, he continued, represents positive behavioral change across communities while preserving cultural heritage and raising environmental awareness. This vision aims to support a healthier, happier, and more unified society, promoting fitness and well-being as essential elements of Abu Dhabi’s community values.
In addition, Shaista Asif, Group CEO of PureHealth, emphasized the transformative power of community, saying, “Since the launch of Active Abu Dhabi earlier this year, we have seen how impactful a collective movement towards wellness can be. With Walk 1000, we hope to inspire every resident to take steps toward a healthier lifestyle.”
Weekly Activations and Inclusive Opportunities
To complement the main event, Walk 1000 will feature weekly community-focused events held across Abu Dhabi. These events are designed to be inclusive and accessible, providing platforms for all residents to participate at their own pace and fitness level. The calendar includes:
- Special women-only walking sessions
- Events for people of determination
- Open sessions for participants of all ages
These weekly events aim to build a fitness-oriented culture within the community, offering individuals an opportunity to work towards personal fitness goals while engaging with others who share similar interests. The varied events encourage all residents, regardless of fitness level, to incorporate more physical activity into their daily routines, with the support of experienced trainers and community leaders.
The Impact of Physical Fitness on Health: Inspiring a Healthier Abu Dhabi
Walk 1000 aims to inspire the community to embrace physical activity as a key component of daily life. As research indicates, just 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week can significantly improve overall health, supporting physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The program’s design—through both high-profile athlete involvement and inclusive community activities—emphasizes the accessibility of fitness and wellness, underscoring that positive changes in health are within reach for everyone.
A Word from Mansour Al Dhaheri, Founder of Active Abu Dhabi
Founder Mansour Al Dhaheri has expressed pride in the initiative, emphasizing its potential to create meaningful opportunities for individuals across Abu Dhabi to engage in health-conscious activities. Al Dhaheri stated, “Walk 1000 represents an incredible chance for residents to get outside, connect with others, and take steps toward better health. I am grateful for the support of our sponsors, partners, and the Abu Dhabi community, and I look forward to embarking on this 1,000-kilometer journey with the whole emirate behind me.”
Encouraging a Lifestyle of Health and Wellness for All
Through initiatives like Walk 1000, Active Abu Dhabi is setting a new standard for community wellness in the UAE. By encouraging all residents to take steps toward a healthier lifestyle, the program is fostering a sense of community and promoting the importance of physical activity as a daily practice. The initiative’s inclusive structure ensures that everyone—regardless of age or ability—can participate, making it a truly unique and inspiring community program.
