Dubai: Autistic Indian teen sets world record for fastest 10 km skate in 40 minutes

Dubai: A 14-year-old Dubai-based Indian expat with autism has set a Guinness World Record for completing a 10 km inline skate in just 40 minutes and 4 seconds.

Zayne Merzi Sodawaterwala made history as the youngest athlete, regardless of ability, to hold this title.

Official timing devices show Zayne’s record-breaking time of 40 minutes and 4 seconds for the 10 km inline skate. Photo: @zaynesincworld/Instagram

The record-breaking achievement took place on March 5, 2025, at Al Qudra Cycling Track in Dubai.

Watch the record-breaking moment here:

“For Zayne, it was not about the record—it’s about the path to independence I have always envisioned for him, which brings me immense joy,” said his father, Merzi Sodawaterwala.

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He added, “I’m incredibly proud of Zayne for overcoming challenges such as poor balance, difficulty focusing, and struggling to learn new skills. No one taught him how to skate; he taught himself by watching videos and practising alone. He surprises me every day. I truly hope this message reaches the world.”

Zayne Sodawaterwala receives his Guinness World Record certificate for the fastest 10km inline skate, surrounded by his proud family in Dubai.
Photo: Instagram

In recognition of his achievement, the Embassy of India in the UAE presented Zayne with a special Diplomatic Award on March 29, applauding him as a symbol of the deepening India–UAE friendship.

Just three weeks after his record-setting skate, Zayne pushed his limits further by completing a 42.55 km inline skate—equivalent to a full marathon—in just over four hours at Al Barsha Pond Park.

Zayne joins a growing list of Indian teens with autism making global headlines from the UAE. In 2023, also based in Dubai, set a Guinness World Record for the largest magnet number. In 2022, another autistic Indian boy in the UAE, was honoured with a Golden Visa.

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