RAS AL KHAIMAH – The inaugural Ras Al Khaimah Fitness Challenge 2025 concluded with a landmark ceremony at the Ras Al Khaimah Sports Complex on Friday, where Walid Omar Ali Salman Al Nuaimi emerged as the grand prize winner, receiving Dh50,000 for his extraordinary physical transformation. The event, presided over by Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah, celebrated exceptional achievements across multiple fitness categories while spotlighting the emirate’s growing prominence as a wellness destination.
Al Nuaimi’s journey exemplified the competition’s core mission of promoting sustainable lifestyle changes. Beginning the three-month challenge at 150kg, the Ras Al Khaimah native successfully reduced his weight by 19kg, reaching 131kg through disciplined training and nutritional adjustments. In his victory speech, Al Nuaimi described the experience as ‘life-changing,’ noting complete overhaul of his daily routines, eating habits, and exercise patterns. He credited his coach from A25 Gym and family support as crucial factors in his unexpected success.
The competition also recognized Khalid Mohamed Ali Al Shehhi as second-place finisher, who achieved an impressive 20kg weight reduction from 135kg to 115kg. Al Shehhi attributed his transformation to a rigorously structured diet and exercise regimen guided by his brother and coach at Rashaqa Life Gym, highlighting his mother’s role in preparing nutritious meals that helped him avoid fast food temptations.
Organized under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, this pioneering initiative targeted Emirati youth aged 15-30 with Body Mass Index readings exceeding 40. According to Saeed Jumaa Al Maas, Vice Chairman of the Fitness Challenge Committee, the program implemented stringent medical assessments fully sponsored by the Crown Prince’s office to ensure participant safety and commitment.
The challenge generated remarkable community engagement, with local gyms offering complimentary memberships—some extending for over a year—alongside nutritional guidance and personalized training programs. From 115 initial applicants, 68 athletes passed medical screenings and participated in professionally supervised training regimens testing endurance, strength, agility, and neuromuscular coordination. Through elimination rounds, the field narrowed to 20 finalists who faced a grueling final assessment featuring high-intensity exercises including air bike calories, rowing metrics, and kettlebell carries without rest periods.
With total prize money reaching Dh810,000 distributed across 20 categories, organizers emphasized that all participants achieved victory through improved health outcomes. Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud announced during the closing ceremony that the second edition will launch early next year with expanded eligibility starting from age 13, reinforcing Ras Al Khaimah’s commitment to fostering healthier lifestyles among youth.