If you are traveling to the UAE for the Dubai Marathon or just a fitness-focused holiday, you will quickly realize that running here isn’t just about the treadmills in luxury hotels. The real magic happens on the “spongy” tracks and wide-open promenades that hug the coastline.
Whether you need a 5K shakeout run or a 30K long-distance session, the UAE has built world-class infrastructure that is surprisingly easy on the joints. Here are my favorite spots to log miles in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Top Running Spots in Dubai
1. Jumeirah Beach (Kite Beach) Track
This is the “holy grail” for local runners. It is a dedicated, soft-rubber track that stretches about 14km round-trip. It starts near the Burj Al Arab and goes all the way to Jumeirah 1. There are water stations and “smart” showers every few hundred meters.
- Best For: Long runs and sunset jogs.
2. Dubai Marina Promenade
An 8–9km loop surrounded by the world’s tallest residential scrapers. Note that there is no rubber track here. It is all hard pavement, so make sure you have well-cushioned shoes.
- Pro Tip: Run before 8:00 AM or after 9:00 PM to avoid the heavy crowds.
3. The Palm Jumeirah (Crescent & Ittihad Park)
The Crescent is an 11km flat boardwalk wrapping around the outer edge of the Palm with therapeutic views of the Arabian Gulf. For something shorter and shaded, Al Ittihad Park offers a 3.2km rubber track tucked under the Monorail track in the center of the Palm.
4. Dubai Water Canal
A 6.4km waterfront path with iconic bridges like the Tolerance Bridge. It is incredibly well-lit at night and offers a futuristic backdrop of the Downtown Dubai skyline.
Top Running Spots in Abu Dhabi
1. The Abu Dhabi Corniche
The signature run in the capital is an 8km stretch of pristine waterfront. It features a dedicated, soft-surface running track separate from the cycle path. It is almost perfectly flat and ideal for pacing runs.
2. Yas Marina Circuit (TrainYAS)
Where else can you run on a Formula 1 track? On Mondays and Wednesdays, the track opens to the public for free. Running under the floodlights where F1 legends race is an experience you won’t forget.
- Note: You must register online for a barcode at the Yas Marina Circuit website before you arrive.
3. Hudayriyat Island
This is an athlete’s paradise. The Heritage Trail offers a 5.5km out and back path along the water. It also features dedicated off-road running trails for those who want a break from the pavement.
UAE Running Track Comparison
| Location | Distance (Loop/One-way) | Surface Type | Best Feature |
| Kite Beach (Dubai) | 14km (Round-trip) | Soft Rubber (Tartan) | Burj Al Arab views |
| Dubai Marina | 9km (Loop) | Concrete / Pavement | Skyscraper skyline |
| Al Ittihad Park (Palm) | 3.2km (Loop) | Soft Rubber | Shaded by native plants |
| Dubai Water Canal | 6.4km (One-way) | Concrete / Pavement | Futuristic bridges |
| The Corniche (Abu Dhabi) | 8km (One-way) | Soft Rubber | Sea breeze & flat path |
| Yas Marina Circuit | 5.5km (Loop) | F1 Asphalt | Running an actual F1 track |
| Hudayriyat Island | 5.5km (Heritage Trail) | Mixed / Paved | Sports-focused vibe |
Golden Rules for Running in the UAE
- Respect the Heat: Even in January, the sun is strong. Aim for 5:00 AM – 8:00 AM or wait until after sunset.
- The “Spongy” Secret: Look for the red or blue rubber tracks. They are designed for the heat and are much better for your joints than the concrete.
- Dress Code: While standard running gear is fine on these tracks, it is always respectful to keep a shirt on when passing through residential or family park areas.
