MUDHI ALOBTHANI (ABU DHABI)

His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, and Chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee for Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, witnessed the launch of the UAE-wide “Walk to Mars” initiative at the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club.

The initiative marks the final countdown to the Games - the largest multi-sport international event in the Middle East - now less than 100 days away.

The event was attended by Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of Education, in addition to a number of senior officials and partners.

The national “Walk to Mars” initiative looks to transform movement into achievement, encouraging participants to collectively cover 54 million kilometres together, equivalent to the distance between Earth and Mars. This target also marks the UAE’s 54th year, linking the challenge to the national milestone.

Through walking, running, cycling, swimming and other physical activities, community members of all ages and fitness levels are invited to take part in the initiative under the theme “Every Step Makes a Difference”. Participants are invited to download the Open Masters Games app to track their steps and movement and contribute to achieving the target.

The initiative aims to promote daily movement, community wellbeing, and a culture of active living across the UAE, ensuring that the goal is attained in time for the upcoming Games.

Al Amiri said: “Walk to Mars embodies the spirit of the continual pursuit of progress that distinguishes the United Arab Emirates. Just as our passion for science led us to explore space and reach Mars, today, this national, social movement leads us toward a unified goal that reflects the power of will and collective action.”

Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said: “Through this initiative, we aim to inspire every individual to move with purpose and take part in a collective challenge that goes beyond fitness - it’s about unity, progress and pride.”

Interactive and community activities will follow to encourage participation and raise awareness of healthy lifestyles. 

Health Comes First

Speaking to Aletihad on the sidelines of the launch, Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of the Cybersecurity Council for the UAE Government, said the campaign not only serves as a motivation to live healthy but also an inspiration “to dream big” and aim for Mars with every step.

“Our health and wellbeing are our top priorities. From Abu Dhabi to the world, we want to show that every person can contribute, and that it all begins with that first single step,” Al Kuwaiti said.

“With more than 30 sports and many inspirational leaders involved, Abu Dhabi is sending a powerful message of hope, unity, and wellbeing to the world.”

Prof Humaid Obaid bin Harmal Al Shamsi, Director of Oncology Services at Burjeel Holdings, agreed that the initiative is an inspiring effort to encourage healthier lifestyles across the community.

“The goal of collecting 54 million steps from all members of society aims to get everyone moving and active. By doing so, we will enhance the health environment of the entire community,” he told Aletihad.

The launch concluded with the participation of inspiring public figures from different sectors, who took the very first steps “towards Mars” on stationary treadmills, marking the initial contributions to the national collective countdown and goal.