Dubai Stand Up Paddle 2026: Hatta Dam Event Guide

Dubai Stand Up Paddle 2026 will return to Hatta Dam on Saturday, November 7, and Sunday, November 8, bringing two days of paddleboarding, kayaking, SUP yoga and outdoor fitness activities to the scenic mountain destination. Presented by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge 2026, the event will welcome beginners, families and experienced paddlers for an active weekend surrounded by Hatta’s dramatic mountains and tranquil waters. Registration is now open, with guided sessions, new morning yoga experiences, adaptive water activities and return shuttle services available for participants.

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Dubai Stand Up Paddle Returns After Record Participation

The upcoming edition of Dubai Stand Up Paddle at Hatta Dam builds on the success of last year’s event, which attracted more than 5,000 participants in 2025. That edition marked the first time the popular Dubai Fitness Challenge activity expanded into a two-day programme, providing more opportunities for residents and visitors to experience paddleboarding in Hatta’s natural surroundings.

Since its introduction in 2023, participation has increased more than fivefold, reflecting the growing interest in outdoor fitness and water sports across Dubai. The event is designed to encourage people of different fitness levels to discover new activities while working towards their daily exercise goals through the Dubai 30×30 Fitness Challenge, which encourages residents to complete 30 minutes of physical activity for 30 consecutive days.

 

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Paddleboarding Sessions for Beginners and Experienced Participants

One of the main attractions of Dubai SUP 2026 is its programme of guided paddleboarding sessions, which allow participants to learn the sport or develop their existing skills. Each session lasts approximately 45 minutes, with experienced instructors helping participants improve their balance, paddling techniques and confidence on the water. The sessions are suitable for beginners as well as those who have previously tried stand up paddleboarding.

All necessary equipment, including paddleboards, paddles and life jackets, will be provided at the venue. Participants will also receive a safety briefing before entering the water, ensuring they understand the basic procedures and equipment requirements. The programme includes supported water activities for People of Determination, with trained teams available to assist participants and make the experience accessible to a wider community.

SUP Fun Challenge Tests Balance and Stamina

Adults looking for a more adventurous experience can participate in the SUP Fun Challenge, a 30-minute activity featuring an approximately 500-metre course marked by buoys. The challenge encourages participants to navigate the course while completing tasks that test their balance, paddling technique and stamina.

Rather than focusing on competitive racing, the activity provides an enjoyable way to improve confidence on a paddleboard while experiencing the beautiful surroundings of Hatta Dam.

New Morning SUP Yoga Sessions Introduced for 2026

A major addition to this year’s programme is the introduction of morning SUP Yoga sessions, offering participants an opportunity to practise yoga while balancing on paddleboards. The 30-minute morning sessions will complement the afternoon yoga experiences introduced during the previous edition, combining controlled movement, breathing exercises and relaxation in a peaceful outdoor setting.

Led by experienced instructors, SUP Yoga provides a different approach to traditional yoga by incorporating the movement of water into the practice. Participants can enjoy Hatta’s mountain scenery while focusing on balance, flexibility and concentration. According to the official event schedule, morning yoga activities are planned from 8.30am to 9.15am, with additional sessions available later in the day.

Kayaking Experiences at Hatta Dam

In addition to paddleboarding, registered participants can explore Hatta Dam through kayaking sessions, providing another opportunity to discover the area’s striking natural landscape. Both single and double kayaks will be available, allowing visitors to enjoy the water individually or alongside family members.

Single kayaks are available for participants aged 17 and above, while younger participants can share double kayaks with an accompanying adult, subject to the event’s eligibility and safety requirements. Kayaking reservations can be made directly at the venue on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is recommended for visitors interested in participating.

Dubai SUP 2026 Dates, Timings and Registration

The Dubai Stand Up Paddle event will take place at Hatta Dam on November 7 and 8, 2026, with activities scheduled from 8am until 5.30pm on both days. Participants must register in advance and should follow the session timings provided in their booking confirmation. Children under six cannot participate, while those aged six to seventeen must be accompanied by an adult. SUP Yoga sessions are available to eligible participants aged ten and above.

Shuttle Services From Dubai to Hatta

To make travelling to the event more convenient, organisers will provide return shuttle services between Dubai and Hatta, with scheduled departures from Dubai World Trade Centre. Transport arrangements are subject to availability, and registered participants can review the relevant departure information when arranging their visit.

The event is organised by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and Dubai Sports Council, with RTA serving as the presenting partner. Visitors can register and review the full activity programme through the official Dubai Fitness Challenge website.

Hatta Dam Takes Centre Stage During Dubai Fitness Challenge

Dubai Stand Up Paddle forms part of the 10th edition of Dubai Fitness Challenge, highlighting the city’s commitment to encouraging active lifestyles through accessible sporting experiences. The event also aligns with the UAE Year of the Family 2026, providing an opportunity for families to enjoy physical activities together while discovering one of Dubai’s most distinctive outdoor destinations.

With its combination of guided paddleboarding, kayaking, SUP yoga and mountain scenery, Dubai Stand Up Paddle at Hatta Dam offers residents and visitors a different way to experience fitness beyond traditional gyms and sports facilities. As the city prepares for another edition of Dubai 30×30, the November event will bring outdoor adventure, community participation and healthy living together in one weekend.