More than 2,500 fitness enthusiasts recently took part in the UAE’s largest Yogafest, a two-day event which saw over 40 yoga and meditation sessions take place at the Dubai Internet City (DIC).

The eco-friendly event, which involved top yoga instructors from around the UAE, was held at a tranquil lake-side setting at DIC, the Mena region’s largest ICT hub.

Through initiatives such as Yogafest, DIC continues to develop and promote events that enhance the fitness and well-being of the community, a statement from DIC said.

This year’s Yogafest saw 24 yoga and 18 meditation sessions on offer, running from 8am to 7pm and catering to all abilities from first-timers to the most advanced yoga fanatics.

Classes included power yoga, bikram yoga, ashtanga and higher self meditation, and the 2013 event was the first to include a kids yoga tent part of the weekend’s activities.

In addition to the yoga and meditation classes, participants were able to attend two concerts which were introduced for the first time this year, as well as a host of other family entertainment activities. Attendees were also eligible to enter a competition to win a trip to YogaMagic, an eco-resort in northern Goa.

Reem Shaban, head of marketing, Dubai Internet City, said: “In addition to providing top quality services to companies based in DIC, we strive to encourage a healthy work-life balance across our community. The success of Yogafest not only highlights the popularity of yoga in Dubai, but also the value we place on ensuring that DIC is a dynamic and vibrant location to work and visit.”

Elaine Kelly, the organiser of Yogafest and a committed community member from Microsoft, has been practicing yoga for 20 years and teaching for two and a half. “Yogafest is a fantastic local community event, and this year’s programme surpassed even my own expectations. The huge turnout demonstrates the widespread popularity of yoga in Dubai, and I am honoured to be able to share my passion for yoga with the community.”

“Yogafest is set to grow even more in the future and next year’s date has already been set for February 14-15, 2014. I am extremely grateful to Dubai Internet City for supporting the event for the third year running and for providing the perfect location to host all our sessions allowing us to bring Yogafest to life,” she concluded. – TradeArabia News Service