Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government and Ministry of Defence join Dubai Molathon at Dubai Hills
Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government and Ministry of Defence joined the Dubai Molathon, boosting physical activity, social cohesion and Dubai quality goals.
Mohammed bin Rashid School participates in Dubai Molathon
Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government took part in the Dubai Molathon held in Dubai Hills as part of a joint initiative with the Ministry of Defence. The event brought students, alumni and faculty onto the walking and running routes, reflecting the school’s strategy to expand its community impact. Organizers said the participation underlines the institution’s commitment to support national efforts that improve quality of life.
The school framed its involvement as a practical extension of its public leadership mission, encouraging civic engagement among emerging and current government leaders. Officials emphasized that placing people at the centre of development requires active institutional contribution to community well-being. This presence also aimed to inspire a culture of regular physical activity among public sector professionals.
Ministry of Defence highlights health and social cohesion goals
The Ministry of Defence sponsored the event to reinforce the role of physical activity in national wellbeing policies. Major General Khalifa Rashid Al Hamli, Director of the Office of the Minister of Defence, said the ministry’s support demonstrates a broader commitment to embedding active lifestyles across society. He described the Dubai Molathon as a successful model of inter-agency partnership that advances objectives of the “We the UAE 2031” agenda.
Officials linked the initiative to Dubai’s wider quality-of-life targets and national health strategies, noting the dual benefits of improved fitness and strengthened social bonds. The ministry’s engagement also signalled intent to align defence institutions with community health priorities. This approach promotes both physical resilience and civic solidarity.
Leadership and education sector stress civic responsibility
Dr Ali bin Sebaa Al Marri, Chief Executive of Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government, said the school’s participation underscores a belief that training public leaders includes contributing to societal initiatives. He explained that academic expertise and institutional partnerships are being mobilized to support sustainable, high-impact community programmes. The school intends to continue integrating public service values with hands-on community involvement.
The leadership highlighted the role of experiential engagement in shaping ethical and effective government officials. Students and alumni who took part viewed the event as an opportunity to connect academic learning with public service. The school also signalled plans for further collaborative activities that tie leadership development to civic outcomes.
Multiple government entities and civic honours at the event
The Dubai Molathon saw participation from several government bodies, including the Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Ambulance Service and the Dubai Community Development Authority. Senior officials from these agencies attended and joined in recognising groups who contribute to social welfare during the ceremony. The organisers presented honours to senior citizens, orphans, volunteers and staff of the “Awnak” centre as part of the community recognition segment.
Speakers noted that public recognition for volunteers and vulnerable groups helps reinforce values of generosity and mutual support. The presence of emergency services underlined the event’s focus on safe, inclusive physical activity for all age groups. Agencies stressed the importance of cross-sector cooperation in delivering programmes that reach diverse community segments.
Community turnout strengthens physical and mental wellness
The walking and running routes in Dubai Hills attracted broad public participation, with families and neighbourhood groups contributing to a lively atmosphere. Organisers said the high turnout helped normalise routine exercise and support mental wellbeing through communal activity. Participants reported increased motivation from shared group effort and public endorsement of healthy habits.
Event planners highlighted that such mass participation contributes to long-term behaviour change by making activity accessible and visible. The Molathon’s combination of sport and social outreach aimed to create regular opportunities for families to exercise together. This model supports a holistic approach to health that includes social connection and community support.
Institutional strategies align with Dubai’s quality-of-life vision
For Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government, the Molathon formed part of a strategic push to broaden societal impact beyond teaching and research. The school said it will continue to leverage partnerships and academic resources to bolster sustainable community initiatives. This approach seeks to ensure that leadership development is accompanied by tangible contributions to civic life.
The Ministry of Defence framed its role as complementary to civilian efforts, helping scale outreach and demonstrate shared responsibility for public health. Stakeholders agreed that repeated, coordinated events can reinforce national targets for cohesion and wellbeing. The joint activities reflect a pragmatic alignment with Dubai’s long-term vision for a healthier, more connected society.
The Dubai Molathon at Dubai Hills concluded with organisers and participants committing to further events that promote activity and solidarity, and with institutions planning follow-up programmes to sustain momentum.