One of the biggest sporting events in the UAE, the Dubai Marathon, is officially back for 2026, and this edition is a major milestone.

The upcoming race marks the silver jubilee of the Dubai Marathon, celebrating 25 years of one of the region’s most iconic international road races.

The Dubai Marathon 2026 will take place on Sunday, February 1, with thousands of runners expected to descend on the city from more than 140 countries.

Three Races, One Big Day

Designed for athletes of all abilities, the event will feature:

• 42.195km full marathon
• 10km road race
• 4km fun run

Whether you’re chasing a personal best or running just for fun, there’s a distance for everyone.

A Race With a Legendary Past

The Dubai Marathon is the oldest international road race in the Middle East and is known globally for its fast course and elite competition.

The event made headlines in 2008, when marathon legend Haile Gebrselassie recorded the second-fastest marathon time in history during his debut appearance in Dubai.

At the 2025 edition, Ethiopian runner Boti Gelemeshu claimed the men’s title with a time of 2:04:51, while Berdado Hirpa won the women’s race, setting a personal best of 2:18:27.

Special Events Planned for Silver Jubilee

Race Director Peter Connerton said the 25th anniversary will be marked by a year-long series of special events leading up to race day, organised in coordination with the Dubai Sports Council and government partners.

The aim is to build excitement across the city and celebrate the marathon’s legacy in Dubai’s sporting history.

Why Dubai Marathon Matters

The event aims to strengthen Dubai’s reputation as a global sports and fitness destination, attracting elite athletes, amateur runners and fitness enthusiasts from around the world.

It also forms part of the city’s growing calendar of major participation sports events, alongside challenges such as Spartan Race, Dubai Ride and Dubai Fitness Challenge.

Dubai Marathon 2026: Key Details

Date: Sunday, February 1, 2026
Entry fees: From Dh550
Participants: Over 140 countries
Registration: dubaimarathon.org