Dubai’s Viral Humanoid Robot Joins Mallathon Runners at Mirdif City Centre
Fitness enthusiasts at Mirdif City Centre got an unexpected companion during their morning run as a Unitree humanoid robot and a robodog joined participants in the Dubai Mallathon on Saturday. Videos shared online showed the robot jogging alongside runners, waving, shaking hands, and posing for selfies.
The futuristic appearance added excitement to the new fitness initiative launched by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, which transforms malls into morning walking and running tracks for the month of August. The programme offers fully equipped pathways from 7am to 10am daily at seven major shopping centres, including Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills Mall, City Centre Deira, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Marina Mall, and The Springs Souk.
The humanoid robot has become a social media sensation in recent weeks, with videos showing it meeting His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, running through city streets, and participating in public demonstrations. Soon, it will be part of the Museum of the Future’s interactive displays, where visitors can watch it in action and experience cutting-edge robotics technology.
The Dubai Mallathon is part of the emirate’s push to promote accessible fitness activities, encouraging residents to stay active while enjoying air-conditioned indoor spaces during the summer.
