Surprise Fireworks, Sunset Yoga: Dubai Residents Stretch Together On Final Day Of 30X30

Dubai's month-long fitness movement closed on a spectacular note on Sunday evening, as thousands gathered for a massive sunset yoga session at Zabeel Park - a first-of-its-kind finale that lit up the city both in energy and, unexpectedly, in fireworks.

As daylight faded, the park transformed into a vast open-air yoga arena, drawing residents of all ages and fitness levels.

Families, beginners, seasoned yogis and curious first-timers stretched and breathed in unison, marking the end of the 30x30 challenge.

Surprise firework displays erupted moments after the final session, delighting participants and residents across Dubai and giving the ninth edition of the Fitness Challenge a memorable send-off.

Leading one of the evening's most anticipated sessions was 24-year-old Yash Moradiya - a 10-time Guinness World Record-holding yoga instructor with more than 818,000 followers. His journey with yoga began at the age of seven in a traditional Gurukul in India, and today, every one of his world records has been achieved in Dubai.

Reflecting on the city's influence on his growth, Moradiya told Khaleeej Times that he has seen how strongly Dubai's residents now prioritise wellbeing. Drawing from his own path, he said the city inspired him to push his limits.

“People are prioritising health more than ever. When I came to Dubai in 2022, I felt inspired by the community activities here,” he said.
“The record I broke was for the scorpion position - holding it for the longest time. The earlier record was four minutes, and I held it for 29 minutes. It wasn't to prove anything to anyone. It was to understand my own potential and see how far I could push myself.

“Dubai is the best in so many things, so I felt that if I'm doing something in yoga... why not be the best in that field too?”

Having dedicated more time to yoga than academics throughout his childhood, Moradiya firmly believes in early exposure.

“Starting yoga at seven is perhaps the best stage - kids are open-minded, like seeds that can be shaped. Their energy can be channelled well,” he explained.
“Yoga energises you for the entire workday. So, take the first step - even five to 10 minutes of breathing exercises or Sun Salutation makes a difference.”

As fireworks burst above Zabeel Park and thousands rolled up their mats, the message was clear - Dubai's commitment to a fitter, more active lifestyle isn't just growing; it's becoming part of the city's identity.

Youngsters and families take centre stage

The event highlighted how deeply yoga is being embraced across generations in Dubai.

Ten-year-old participant Salma Fatima, who attended with her family, said the session pushed her in the best way possible.

“I really enjoyed it, even though some poses were difficult,” said the Grade 4 student of Crescent English High School.“But I do yoga in school. I want to keep doing it.”

For longtime residents like Easel Lazarte, who has lived in Dubai for 16 years, the session was a chance to reconnect with a practice she had drifted away from.

“I look forward to Dubai Fitness Challenge every year and try to join sessions like Dubai Run or the Fitness Village,” she said.“This is the first time in many years that I tried yoga properly. Some poses were challenging, but it felt great.”

South Korean expat Ji Young, who has lived in Dubai for just two and a half years, attended despite having a flight to catch the same night.

“I'm flying to India tonight, but I still wanted to attend this session,” she said with a laugh.“The dynamic flow that yoga instructor Dylan (Werner) showed was very interesting. I was also at the Dubai Run and did the stand-up paddling challenge in Hatta. This whole initiative has been amazing.”

Milestone moment

For organisers, the inaugural Dubai Yoga finale marked a significant step forward in turning fitness into a shared citywide lifestyle.

Al Reem Al Redha, Manager at Dubai Fitness Challenge, said the event showcases how deeply the culture of movement has taken root across the emirate.

“We're very proud that Dubai can host events at this scale and bring together different demographics and ages,” she said.“People here are more inclined towards a healthy life. They love fitness, they love sports, and we're grateful we can create these experiences for them.”

Describing the sunset yoga as a major new addition, she said the aim was to make it accessible for everyone - residents and visitors alike.

“This whole event today is a new addition to the Dubai fitness strategy. It's one of our new mass events for this edition, created to cater to the entire city,” she said.“It has been one of the biggest highlights and a beautiful way to conclude the challenge. In all our events, we also make sure they're fully accessible for people of determination.”

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