National Bank of Kuwait organized the inaugural run in the expanded third phase of Al Shaheed Park in partnership with Spark Sports Club. The community-focused gathering attracted running enthusiasts to the Lazy Cat area for training sessions led by professional coaches and a competitive finale that distributed cash prizes. All individuals already registered for the December NBK Run 2026 received a limited-edition shirt produced by Intersport bearing the activation’s branding, according to an announcement from the bank.
The October 17 activity represented one of the first public events in the park’s newest section, which welcomed visitors starting October 1 after a major expansion project. Participants experienced an energetic setting designed to build excitement and fitness levels in the weeks leading to the main race. The bank shared updates about the successful turnout via its official social media accounts while encouraging further sign-ups.
NBK Run 2026 is scheduled to begin at Kuwait Towers on December 12 with three distance options of five, 10 and 21 kilometres along a route that follows Arabian Gulf Street toward Souq Sharq before returning. The 2025 edition drew more than 7,000 runners across all categories, Kuwait Times reported, confirming the event’s standing as the largest annual mass-participation sports occasion in the country. That previous run introduced the half-marathon distance for the first time and distributed cash awards to the top three finishers in each division.
Al Shaheed Park’s third phase added an Olympic ice rink, indoor snow attraction, electric karting facility and a 2,300-seat theatre complex, Gulf News noted in coverage of the October 1 opening that also featured a two-day carnival. These additions have created fresh opportunities for public sporting and recreational programs across Kuwait. The preparatory activation at the park aligns with broader national efforts to promote active lifestyles and community involvement through accessible venues.
Registration for NBK Run 2026 remains open through the dedicated portal linked on the bank’s website and social channels. The event has operated for over 30 years as a cornerstone of the institution’s corporate social responsibility activities that combine health promotion with charitable elements. Further warm-up sessions are planned in the coming weeks to maintain momentum ahead of the December 12 start.
