Following the success of the 2016 edition, the Hello Kitty Fun Run returns to Dubai on Friday, December 8, offering plenty of excitement for participants.

Zabeel Park will host the untimed 5km family run featuring a number of Sanrio characters, and you can still join them before registration close. Whether you’re an experienced athlete or beginner, this is an event for all abilities with the emphasis on a healthy lifestyle, friendship and harmony.

Thousands who have taken part in the events in Asia, notably Taiwan, Japan, Singapore and Malaysia, and Dubai last year, have spoken glowingly and 2017 is set to be another big hit.

“We’ve had remarkable success in the Hello Kitty Runs,” said Adam Griffiths, event and project manager of MMC Sportz Marketing LLC, which has partnered with Sanrio GMBH to bring the concept to Dubai.

“They were massive, attracting huge numbers. We held our first one in Taiwan during the 40th birthday of Hello Kitty on November 1, 2014 and that saw more than 25,000 runners. Thereafter, it has gone from strength to strength with the Hello Kitty Run held in Japan, Singapore and Malaysia.”

On top of that, there will be an entertainment village where you can have selfies taken with Hello Kitty herself and enjoy a wide range of activities.

Entry is open to ages from three and above, with registration costing Dh110 for 16 and under (Junior Kitty), and Dh125 for 16 and above (Adult Kitty).

There is also a Family Kitty package (two adults and two kids) for Dh400 and a Team Kitty package for ten adults at Dh1,000.

Included in the entry fee is a race pack featuring a Hello Kitty string bag, water bottle, race t-shirt and the finishers race medal as well as plenty of goodies from the sponsors, Babyshop.

Online registration can be done at www.hkrundubai.com or at dubai.platinumlist.net or simply visit select Hello Kitty Spa and Sanrio stores across UAE, including the Bin Sougat Mall, Deira City Centre, Dubai Mall, Festival City, Ibn Batutta Mall, Mirdif City Centre, Times Square Centre, BurJuman Mall, Sharjah Mega Mall and Abu Dhabi’s Dalma Mall and Marina Mall.

“It going to be full of fun, excitement and surprises,” Griffiths adds. “It’s the perfect activity for individuals and families to celebrate and create a unique community that values happiness, healthy lifestyle and harmony among people.”

WHAT: Hello Kitty Fun Run, Dubai

WHERE: Zabeel Park

WHEN: Friday, December 8, 09:00

CONTACT: For more info, or to register go to www.hkrundubai.com or dubai.platinumlist.net