Central Hotels & Resorts, notable for being one of the fastest-growing homegrown hospitality brands in the UAE, gives special attention to its workforce’s well-being. This month, their innovative initiative titled “30 Minutes for a Healthier You!” joins the ranks of similar wellness efforts during the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC). From November 1 to 30, team members residing in staff accommodations are urged to dedicate a mere 30 minutes each day to enhance their health and fitness—whether through walking, stretching, dancing, or engaging in team workouts in shared spaces.
The Dubai Fitness Challenge, now celebrating its ninth edition, was conceived under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai. This year’s theme, “Find Your Challenge,” aims to transform Dubai into a vibrant hub of fitness and community activity. The month-long celebration includes a myriad of free classes, outdoor events, and various activities designed to position Dubai as one of the world’s most active cities.
In harmony with this movement, Central Hotels & Resorts has tailored a robust program that brings wellness directly to its teams. Each week during November features unique themes, designed to motivate and energize the staff. The initiative kicks off with “Get Moving!”—a week dedicated to group stretches, Zumba classes, and a step-count challenge that encourages friendly competition among team members.
Following that, week two revolves around “Build Strength,” where employees partake in bodyweight workouts, wall-sit challenges, and even martial arts sessions led by Force Strike Martial Arts. This variety not only keeps things fresh but also helps participants discover new ways to enhance their fitness levels.
The excitement continues with “Fun Fitness” in Week 3, where Zumba sessions fill the air with energy. Staff members will engage in a “fit quest”—daily mini-challenges designed to keep fitness fun and interactive. Furthermore, a Healthy Meal Day is incorporated, encouraging team members to share nutritious snacks and homemade juices, fostering a sense of community around health-conscious eating habits.
The program culminates in the final week with “Team Challenge & Closing,” featuring a fun relay race, fitness trivia, and a closing ceremony that celebrates achievements. The highlight is the recognition of the “Most Active Participant,” with prizes such as branded towels and water bottles, reinforcing the motivational aspect of the initiative.
The buzz across Central Hotels & Resorts’ properties—Royal Central Hotel The Palm, C Central Resort The Palm, and Canal Central Hotel Business Bay—is palpable. Departments are coming together, forming walking groups, and sharing progress in dedicated WhatsApp communities, which keeps morale high and the spirit of teamwork thriving. What initially started as a health challenge has blossomed into a joyous celebration of camaraderie, fun, and positivity.
“At Central Hotels & Resorts, our people are the heart of our success,” explains Abdulla Ahmad Ali Al Abdulla Al Ansari, Chief Operating Officer and Group General Manager. “This challenge is not just about fitness—it’s about supporting one another, celebrating progress, and cultivating a healthy mindset as a team. Our goal is to empower our colleagues to integrate wellness into their everyday lives.”
Through this initiative, Central Hotels & Resorts emphasizes its commitment to fostering a culture of well-being, positivity, and teamwork across all its properties. This approach goes beyond simple hospitality; it emphasizes a holistic view where health and happiness are central to the organization’s values.