Dubai SUP returns to Hatta Dam on 7 and 8 November, free with registration

Dubai Stand Up Paddle, one of the flagship events of the Dubai Fitness Challenge (31 October to 29 November), comes back to Hatta Dam for a fourth year on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November, from 8am to 5.30pm each day. It is free, but you must register in advance on the Dubai Fitness Challenge website.

Instructors lead paddleboard sessions for beginners, adults and families, and an afternoon SUP Fun Challenge runs around an inflatable duck course. Single and double kayaks can be booked at the dam, first come, first served. New this year are sunrise SUP yoga sessions from 8.30am to 9.15am on both mornings, alongside the sunset sessions.

Boards, paddles and life jackets are provided with a safety briefing. Children under six cannot go on the water, those aged 6 to 17 must be with an adult, and SUP yoga is for ages 10 and up. You get a confirmation email and collect a coloured wristband at the dam, so arrive at least 30 minutes early. Free return buses run between Dubai World Trade Centre and Hatta while seats last, and there is parking, changing rooms and food for sale. Bring swimwear, a towel, waterproof sunscreen and water.