Running & Marathon Events in UAE and Middle East – 2026 Calendar
Prime season: Oct–Apr (pleasant 12–22°C)
This list focuses on upcoming and anticipated 2026 events (updated February 27, 2026).
TBC = date to be confirmed based on previous years. Always check official sites for entries, weather, or changes. Early registration recommended!
UAE Events – Upcoming 2026
Mother’s Day Run
Date: March 21, 2026 (Saturday)
Location: Dubai
Distances: Various fun & family distances (usually 3–10 km)
Family-oriented celebration run – great for beginners, kids and groups.
Skechers Half Marathon
Date: March 28, 2026 (Saturday)
Location: Dubai
Distances: Half Marathon, 10 km
Speed & stamina focused event – part of popular RaceME series.
Sukoon & Bupa Global Dubai Canal Run
Date: March 29, 2026 (Sunday)
Location: Dubai – Dubai Canal
Distances: Various (typically 5 km, 10 km, Half Marathon)
Scenic waterfront route with health & wellness theme.
Expo City Dubai Half Marathon
Date: April 19, 2026 (Sunday)
Location: Dubai – Expo City
Distances: 5 km, 10 km, 16 km, 21.1 km
Futuristic venue, flat & fast course, family-friendly atmosphere.
ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon
Date: December 12, 2026 (Saturday)
Location: Abu Dhabi
Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 km, 5 km, Fun Run
Scenic capital course – end-of-year highlight with great organization.
Middle East & Nearby – Upcoming 2026
Dead Sea Ultra Marathon
Date: April 10, 2026 (Friday) – TBC
Location: Dead Sea, Jordan
Distances: 50 km Ultra, Marathon, Half Marathon, Relay
Unique low-altitude scenic road challenge.
Wadi Rum Full Moon Desert Marathon
Date: May 2026 (TBC – usually early May full moon)
Location: Wadi Rum, Jordan
Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 km, 5 km
Stunning desert trail run under full moon – very atmospheric.
Petra Desert Marathon
Date: September 5, 2026 (Saturday) – TBC
Location: Petra, Jordan
Distances: Marathon, 25 km Ultra Half
Historic route past ancient tombs and temples – hot desert adventure.
Amman International Marathon
Date: October 2026 (TBC – usually mid/late Oct)
Location: Amman, Jordan
Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 km
City exploration run with hilly sections and historical views.
More smaller / community events appear throughout the year.
Check local running groups and club social media for updates.
Happy training & racing! 🏃♂️🌴
