Dubai Marathon 2026: How to Get Involved in Dubai’s Biggest Running Event

When and where is Dubai Marathon 2026?

Dubai Marathon 2026 marks the landmark 25th “silver anniversary” edition of the race, taking place on Sunday, 1 February 2026 in Dubai, UAE. The event features a famously flat, fast coursethat attracts elite athletes and recreational runners chasing personal bests.​

The marathon, 10 km race and 4 km fun run all start and finish around Umm Suqeim Road near Madinat Jumeirah, with the iconic Burj Al Arab as a backdrop, making it one of the most scenic city marathons in the world.​

Race categories and entry fees

Dubai Marathon 2026 is designed to be accessible for different fitness levels, with three main race options:​

• 42.195 km Marathon – For runners 18 years and over, with a 7:00 am start. The entry fee is 150 USD, and there is a 6-hour cutoff for the marathon.​

• 10 km Road Race – Open to participants 15 years and over, starting at 8:15 am. The entry fee is 85 USD.​

• 4 km Fun Run – A family-friendly, open-to-all race starting at 10:30 am, with an entry fee of 50 USD.​

These options make it easy for first-timers, casual runners, and serious athletes to all be part of the same major city event.

How to register for Dubai Marathon 2026

Registration for Dubai Marathon 2026 is online only via the official Dubai Marathon website, where the organisers have opened entries for the silver anniversary edition. Participants must:​

• Complete the official online entry form

• Agree to the rules and regulations set under World Athletics standards

• Pay the relevant entry fee securely online​

Registration typically remains open until the final days of January, with some platforms citing a closing date around 27 January 2026, but runners are strongly advised to register early to secure a spot.​

Race packs and bib numbers must then be collected in person from the designated collection point in the days leading up to race day, usually between 28–31 January, with valid ID required or an authorised person presenting your confirmation email.​

Other ways to get involved

Even if you are not ready to run a full marathon, there are multiple ways to be part of Dubai Marathon 2026:

• Join the 10 km or 4 km Fun Run for a more relaxed but still exciting race-day experience.​

• Enter as a group or corporate team – the official site highlights dedicated group and category information, making it ideal for companies, schools and running clubs planning a team challenge.​

• Support on the sidelines – the route along Jumeirah’s coastline creates natural cheering zones where residents and visitors can line the streets to support runners and soak up the festival atmosphere.​

For those keen on deeper involvement, keeping an eye on the official channels is the best way to spot announcements around volunteers, event village activities and sponsor-led experiences.​

Tips for first-time Dubai Marathon runners

For newcomers targeting Dubai Marathon 2026, starting early is key. The flat route makes it ideal for a first marathon or 10 km PB, but runners should train for both distance and heat management, even though the race starts in the cool early morning.​

Build a structured plan focusing on gradual mileage increases, regular long runs, and some race-pace sessions. Prioritise hydration, electrolytes, and sun protection, and aim to simulate race conditions with early-morning runs. International runners can also use the event as a race-cation, combining race day with a long weekend exploring Dubai’s beaches, malls and attractions.​

With its world-class organisation, iconic backdrop and inclusive race options, Dubai Marathon 2026 is one of the standout running events in the UAE calendar – and now is the perfect time to sign up and start training.