From accessible racquet courts to school football sessions, the programme takes sport into communities.
- ISD reserves six courts daily for free inclusive racquet sports.
- People of Determination can access dedicated padel and table tennis sessions.
- Real Madrid Foundation coaches will visit schools across Dubai and Sharjah.
- Children can earn certificates and try free football coaching afterwards.
For some families, finding a sports activity that everyone can enjoy takes more planning than simply picking a venue. A suitable court, an accessible setting and a welcoming atmosphere can make all the difference. This year, Dubai Fitness Challenge 2026 is making room for more people to take part, with ISD Dubai Sports City offering free racquet sports sessions for People of Determination and taking football coaching into schools and public spaces.
The programme runs from 31 October to 29 November, with three padel courts and three table tennis tables at ISD reserved exclusively for People of Determination. Each day, participants can book a dedicated one-hour session without paying an entry fee. No membership barrier, no court charge. Just time and space to play.
For someone trying padel for the first time, having a regular session and a dedicated space can make joining in feel less daunting. ISD’s daily programme is built around that access, giving participants the opportunity to develop confidence, enjoy friendly competition and make sport part of their routine. Families can take part in a more welcoming sporting environment, too.
The sessions have specific timings throughout the month. From Monday to Thursday, they run from 2pm to 3pm, with Friday sessions from 12.30pm to 1.30pm. Sunday’s slot is 4pm to 5pm, while Saturdays are scheduled for 8pm to 9pm, except 14 November, when the session moves to 1pm to 2pm. A little planning helps.
Football is getting its own community-focused treatment. Through the Real Madrid Foundation’s Educational Football Program, coaches will visit schools across Dubai and Sharjah to deliver free sessions during PE classes, working alongside school sports departments. Children don’t need previous playing experience. The focus is on learning basic football skills while developing teamwork, respect and resilience.
Beyond school grounds, the coaches will bring beach soccer sessions to Kite Beach and welcome school groups at Al Warqa Park, with further activities planned at Zabeel Park and other community locations. That means children can encounter the game in different settings, from a school sports lesson to an outdoor session by the beach. Sport gets out into the neighbourhood.
There is also a next step for young players who want to keep going. Every child attending the football activations will receive a participation certificate and an invitation to a free taster session at ISD Dubai Sports City, where the football programme already has almost 1,200 players. Its capacity is expected to nearly double, creating room for more children to continue training.
The wider idea behind Dubai Fitness Challenge is to make 30 minutes of daily movement accessible to people of different ages and abilities. ISD’s contribution gives that idea a practical shape, with free sessions and clear ways to get involved. To book a session, contact ISD reception by WhatsApp or phone on +971 52 671 2890.
