Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates has unveiled a new nationwide fitness drive titled “Walk to Mars”, encouraging residents to collectively clock 54 million kilometres — the symbolic distance from Earth to Mars — as part of the 100-day countdown to the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, the region’s biggest multi-sport event.
The initiative, launched under the slogan “Every Step Makes a Difference,” aims to promote physical activity, wellness, and community engagement across all ages and fitness levels. Participants are invited to walk, run, cycle, or swim to contribute to the ambitious collective target, which also marks the UAE’s 54th year of nationhood.
The launch event was attended by 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 the Games. He was joined by Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of Education, along with senior officials, partners, and leading personalities from various sectors.
To symbolise the beginning of the challenge, public figures took the first steps on stationary treadmills, setting the tone for the nationwide movement. The campaign’s collective goal is to complete 54 million kilometres by the time the Open Masters Games commence from 6 to 15 February 2026, hosting more than 25,000 athletes from around the world. Competitions will span 33 sporting disciplines across 20 venues in Abu Dhabi, open to anyone aged 30 and above — regardless of prior experience.
Throughout the countdown, a series of community events and engagement activities will encourage participation, while progress can be tracked through the official Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 app.
“‘Walk to Mars’ reflects the UAE’s forward-looking spirit,” said Minister Sarah Al Amiri. “Just as our journey to space represented ambition and innovation, this initiative brings the community together to invest in health, unity, and a dynamic future for all generations.”
