The Dubai Marathon 2026 is set to bring the city’s running community together once again, offering one of the most iconic and rewarding road-running experiences in the Middle East. Scheduled for Sunday, 1 February 2026, the event welcomes elite athletes, amateur runners, corporate teams and first-time participants from around the world.

Known for its flat, fast course, cool winter temperatures and generous prize money, the Dubai Marathon has earned its reputation as a must-run international race. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best, ticking off your first marathon or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the 2026 edition promises a professionally organised and high-energy experience against Dubai’s skyline.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Dubai Marathon 2026, including race categories, route details, timings, registration steps, entry fees and race-day tips—so you can focus on training and enjoy the event stress-free.

What is the Dubai Marathon 2026?

The Dubai Marathon is one of the region’s longest-running and most prestigious road races. Now celebrating its silver jubilee edition, the event attracts thousands of runners each year thanks to its world-class organisation and international recognition.

The 2026 marathon continues this legacy, offering a competitive yet inclusive platform for runners of all levels.

Dubai Marathon 2026 date, timings and venue

• Date: Sunday, 1 February 2026
• Main venue: Umm Suqeim Road (near Madinat Jumeirah)
• Finish line: Dubai Police Academy

Official race timings

• Marathon (Elite): 06:00 am
• Marathon (Mass start): 07:00 am
• 10 km Road Race: 08:15 am
• 4 km Fun Run: 10:30 am

For those unable to attend in person, the event will also be live-streamed online.

Dubai Marathon 2026 route details

The race routes are designed to be fast, scenic and runner-friendly:

• 42 km & 10 km races:
  Start on Umm Suqeim Road (opposite Madinat Jumeirah) and finish at Dubai Police Academy.
• 4 km Fun Run:
  Starts at Al Sufouh off Umm Suqeim Road and finishes at Dubai Police Academy.

These routes offer smooth road surfaces and excellent crowd support throughout.

Race categories and eligibility

The Dubai Marathon 2026 offers options for all fitness levels:

4 km Fun Run

• Open to all ages
• Ideal for beginners and casual runners

10 km Road Race

• Open to participants 15 years and above
• Suitable for intermediate runners

42 km Full Marathon

• Open to runners 18 years and above
• A true endurance challenge

Corporate Team Challenge

• Teams of 3 runners for the 42 km
• Teams of 5 runners for the 10 km
• Designed to promote teamwork and fitness at work

Dubai Marathon prize money

One of the biggest attractions of the event is its competitive prize pool.

• Winner’s prize: USD 80,000
• Top 9 finishers: Cash prizes ranging from USD 1,500 to USD 40,000

This makes the Dubai Marathon one of the most lucrative marathons globally, drawing elite international athletes every year.

Dubai Marathon 2026 registration process

Registration for Dubai Marathon 2026 is online only via the official marathon website.

You’ll be asked to provide:

• Nationality
• Race category / corporate team details
• Predicted finish time
• Contact information

Additional details include:

• T-shirt size
• Profession
• Promo code (if applicable)
• Credit card details for payment

Once completed, your registration is confirmed instantly.

Entry fees and race number collection

Entry fees

• 42 km: USD 150 (≈ AED 550)
• 10 km: USD 85 (≈ AED 312)
• 4 km: USD 50 (≈ AED 184)

Race number collection

Participants must collect their race numbers in person from Adidas Store, Dubai Mall:

• Wed 28 Jan: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
• Thu 29 Jan: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
• Fri 30 Jan: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
• Sat 31 Jan: 10:00 am – 05:00 pm

Valid photo ID is required.

Facilities available at Dubai Marathon 2026

Runners will benefit from:

• Medical stations with paramedics and ambulances
• Water stations every 5 km
• Electrolyte drinks for marathon & 10 km runners
• Toilet facilities from 5 km to 40 km
• Race pack with timing chip (Mika Tag)
• Official t-shirt, medal and certificate
• Live entertainment, food and beverage stalls

Important things to remember on race day

• Expected temperature: 10–15°C
• Parking near the route is restricted
• Use Mall of the Emirates or Al Barsha for parking
• Pre-book taxis where possible
• Pets are not allowed
• Organisers reserve the right to reject entries

FAQs: Dubai Marathon 2026

Conclusion: Why Dubai Marathon 2026 is worth running

The Dubai Marathon 2026 is more than a race—it’s a celebration of endurance, community and world-class organisation. With multiple race categories, an iconic route and excellent runner support, it remains one of the top road-running events in the region.

Whether you’re chasing a podium finish or simply enjoying the atmosphere, this event offers a rewarding experience for every runner.