News DeskDubai, UAE: Reinforcing its long-standing commitment to community health and family wellbeing, Landmark Group successfully hosted the 16th edition of its flagship Beat Diabetes Family Event at Za’abeel Park, drawing more than 17,500 participants in one of the UAE’s largest family-focused wellness initiatives.
Held under the theme ‘Step into a Healthier Tomorrow’, the event aligned with the UAE’s Year of Family agenda, highlighting the importance of diabetes awareness, prevention, early detection and the promotion of healthy, active lifestyles across generations.
The event was inaugurated by Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman of Landmark Group, alongside Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary-General of the Dubai Sports Council, Hessa Abdulrahman Tahlak, Assistant Undersecretary for the Development Sector at the Ministry of Family, and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation. Representatives from government entities, healthcare partners, schools, corporate organisations, Lions Clubs International Middle East and GEMS Education also attended, reflecting strong public-private collaboration in advancing community wellbeing.
Speaking at the event, Saeed Mohammed Hareb said initiatives such as Beat Diabetes play a vital role in encouraging physical activity and healthy living, particularly during the Year of Family, contributing to a stronger and more resilient society.
A key highlight was the 2-kilometre community walk, followed by a range of fitness, sports and educational activities designed for all age groups. Participants also benefited from free blood glucose testing, health screenings, vaccinations and nutrition consultations, delivered in partnership with Al Jalila Foundation and Emirates Health Services.
Youth engagement remained a central focus through the Superkidz Programme, implemented in collaboration with GEMS Education for the second consecutive year. The Superkidz Writing Competition engaged students from 15 GEMS schools, with winners announced during the event, encouraging children to creatively explore themes of healthy living.
Commenting on the event’s success, Nisha Jagtiani, Group Director at Landmark Group, said the strong turnout reflected the initiative’s deep resonance within the community. She noted that preventive healthcare services, including Al Jalila Foundation’s Wellness on Wheels unit, helped bring early screening and health education directly to families in accessible ways.
Dr. Amer Al Zarooni highlighted the importance of prevention and early detection, stating that long-term partnerships such as this translate health awareness into practical actions that benefit families across the UAE.
Since its launch in 2009, the Beat Diabetes initiative has engaged more than 165,000 participants across the region, promoting the message: Take the Test. Eat Healthy. Get Active. All proceeds from the 2026 event will be directed to Al Jalila Foundation to support diabetes research, treatment and patient care.
As the programme continues to expand, Landmark Group remains a leading advocate for diabetes prevention, awareness and community wellbeing, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for positive social impact in the Year of Family and beyond.
