The Dubai Marathon 2026 is one of the biggest running events in the region, bringing together elite athletes, hobby runners, and families for a full day of sporting excitement. Set for its landmark 25th Silver Jubilee edition, the event promises fast times, scenic views, and a festive race village right in the heart of Umm Suqeim.
As one of the key annual sporting moments highlighted among Dubai Marathon events across the city, the 2026 edition stands out for its scale, location, and runner-friendly course.
In this guide, you’ll learn about:
- Details about the Dubai Marathon 2026
- Main race categories and distances
- Dubai Marathon course details and route information
- Dubai Marathon registration, fees, and application process
- Logistics, facilities, and race-day support
- History, international prestige, and unique highlights
- Preparing for Dubai Marathon 2026
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Details about the Dubai Marathon 2026
The Dubai Marathon 2026 returns on 1 February 2026 for its landmark 25th Silver Jubilee edition, set along Umm Suqeim Road with the Burj Al Arab framing the start and finish lines. Organised under the patronage of the Dubai Sports Council, the event is expected to attract runners from more than 140 nationalities.
Known for its exceptionally fast, flat road layout, the marathon is one of the top global courses for achieving personal best times.
Main race categories and distances
As one of the top annual events in Dubai, this marathon offers three main categories suitable for elite runners, recreational athletes, and families:
Full Marathon – 42.195 km
- Elite start: 6:00 a.m.
- Mass start: 7:00 a.m.
- Minimum age: 18+
10 km Road Race
- Dubai Marathon start time: 8:15 a.m.
- Minimum age: 15+
4 km Fun Run
- Dubai Marathon start time: 10:30 a.m
- Open to all ages and ideal for families
Additional activities such as satellite runs and event-village entertainment help create a lively, community-focused atmosphere throughout the morning.
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Race-day schedule
The bib collection is held over four days: 28, 29, 30, and 31 January 2026
- Collection hours run until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, 31 January 2026.
- No race-day number collection is permitted.
- Valid ID is required for all runners
- Extensive road closures will be in effect around Umm Suqeim Road, so participants are advised to arrive early and use public transport where possible.
Dubai Marathon course details and route information
The Dubai Marathon route maintains its famous coastal design, beginning and ending near Madinat Jumeirah on Umm Suqeim Road.
Map and layout
- Start/Finish: Umm Suqeim Road, opposite Madinat Jumeirah
- Marathon route: Heads towards Al Sufouh, follows long, flat coastal roads, and loops back
- 4 km start: Slightly off Umm Suqeim Road at Al Sufouh
- Finish: Near Dubai Police Academy
Route advantages
- Extremely flat profile, ideal for PBs
- Hydration stations are approximately every 2.5 km from 5 km to 40 km
- Medical points positioned across the route
- Electronic timing chips for accurate Dubai Marathon timing
- 6-hour time limit for marathon completion
Dubai Marathon registration, fees, and application process
All Dubai Marathon registration takes place online through the official website.
Registration opens mid-April 2025 and closes 27 January 2026, unless slots fill earlier, which is common for major race categories.
Entry fees for Dubai Marathon 2026
- Full Marathon: USD 150 / EUR 129
- 10 km Race: USD 85 / EUR 73
- 4 km Fun Run: USD 50 / EUR 43
A full refund is available within the first 24 hours of registration, and all entries follow World Athletics rules and event guidelines.
Logistics, facilities, and race-day support
The organisers place strong emphasis on runner support to ensure a smooth experience throughout the day.
Facilities offered
- Hydration stations along the route
- Medical support at multiple points
- Bag-drop and secure storage
- A vibrant event village with entertainment, food stalls, and family areas
Transportation and parking
For transport, runners are encouraged to use public options such as the Dubai Metro, taxis, or designated parking zones near the Mall of the Emirates. Early arrival is essential due to planned road closures along Umm Suqeim and nearby areas.
History, international prestige, and unique highlights
The Dubai Marathon has grown into one of the region’s most celebrated sporting traditions, known for its fast course, elite field, and enduring community spirit.
Event legacy
The 2026 race marks the 25th Anniversary, bringing special celebrations across the 2025–26 season. As the oldest international marathon in the Middle East, it consistently ranks among the world’s fastest courses, drawing Olympians, record-holders, and thousands of amateur runners every year.
Its long-standing reputation also strengthens Dubai’s position as a global sports and tourism hub.
Why join
Participants can experience a record-setting course shared with world-class talent while enjoying Dubai’s welcoming atmosphere, coastal scenery, and vibrant race village. The Silver Jubilee adds an extra layer of celebration, making 2026 a standout year to be part of an iconic moment in the city’s sporting history.
Preparing for Dubai Marathon 2026
Preparing well for the Dubai Marathon 2026 helps runners take full advantage of its flat, fast course and winter conditions.
Training tips
- Begin training around 35 weeks before race day, especially if starting from a base level.
- Use the flat route to your benefit by incorporating steady-paced long runs aimed at personal bests.
- Factor in Dubai’s mild but sometimes warm winter climate, making consistent hydration essential.
Recommended experiences in Dubai
If you’re planning to extend your stay, Dubai’s beaches, restaurants, and family attractions are close to the event area. With the city’s excellent transport links, you can reach Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, or Dubai Creek in minutes.
If you’re exploring long-term accommodation near running routes or the coastline, using SuperAgent on Property Finder can help connect you with top-rated agents who respond quickly and offer personalised support.
Key takeaways
The Dubai Marathon 2026 is a landmark Silver Jubilee event featuring multiple race categories, a flat and fast route, and world-class organisation. With scenic coastal views, international prestige, and special anniversary celebrations, it promises to be one of Dubai’s most exciting sporting moments.
Early registration is recommended due to high demand, and runners can expect extensive race-day facilities, accurate timing systems, and an energetic event village to make the experience memorable.
FAQs
The race takes place on 1 February 2026.
A full marathon, 10 km race, and 4 km fun run.
Umm Suqeim Road near Madinat Jumeirah, finishing close to the Dubai Police Academy.
Registration is online through dubaimarathon.org.
