Marathons and 10K Runs in UAE 2026: Calendar and Sign-Up Guide
Find the 2026 UAE marathon and 10K calendar with exact dates, entry fees, and simple sign-up steps for Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah.
2026 UAE Running Calendar
The three headline races stay on the same weekends each year. Dubai Marathon takes place on 17 January. Abu Dhabi Marathon follows on 7 February. Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon closes the winter season on 21 February. Most 10K events sit two weeks before or after these dates.
Entry Fees and Categories
Full marathon entry costs 400 AED until 30 November 2025, then rises to 500 AED. Half marathon fees start at 250 AED and reach 320 AED after the early-bird window. 10K races charge 180 AED early, 230 AED standard. All events offer timed and untimed options; the untimed fun-run category is 120 AED across the board.
How to Register
Visit the official race site and create a profile with Emirates ID or passport details. Pay by card or Apple Pay. You receive a confirmation email and QR code within minutes. Collect your bib and timing chip at the expo two days before race day. No paper forms are accepted on site.
Training and Heat Rules
Winter mornings stay cool enough for long runs, yet afternoon training needs extra water. Dubai and Abu Dhabi both open public tracks at 5 a.m.; Ras Al Khaimah parks open from 6 a.m. Carry at least 500 ml per 5 km once temperatures pass 28 °C. RTA water stations appear every 3 km on race routes.
Medical and Travel Notes
Participants must hold valid medical insurance covering sports injuries. DHA clinics in Dubai and DOH centres in Abu Dhabi offer same-day certificates for 150 AED if your home policy excludes running events. Fly into the host city the day before; internal UAE flights add roughly 45 minutes each way from other emirates.
Post-Race Recovery
Finishers receive a medal, finisher T-shirt, and free metro or tram ride back to the start area. Most hotels near the start line offer late checkout until 4 p.m. for runners; book directly and mention your bib number to secure the perk.
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Frequently asked questions
When does early-bird registration close for Dubai Marathon 2026?▾
Early-bird pricing ends 30 November 2025. After that the fee rises from 400 AED to 500 AED.
Do I need a medical certificate to race?▾
Yes. Valid sports insurance or a DHA/DOH certificate bought for 150 AED meets the rule.
Can I register on race weekend?▾
No. All entries close online seven days before race day. On-site registration is not offered.
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