Dubai is not only a city of skyscrapers and luxury hotels, but also a place where sporting events acquire a special atmosphere. One of the most anticipated events in the sports calendar is the Dubai Marathon. Every year thousands of runners from all over the world gather in this amazing city to test their strength on one of the flattest and fastest tracks in the world.

The Dubai Marathon, which takes place in January, was founded in 1998 and has since attracted the attention of both professional athletes and amateurs. In 2023, more than 30,000 participants from 150 countries registered for the marathon, which underlines the international nature of this event.

The Dubai Marathon is known for its records. For example, in 2019, Kenyan runner Kipsang set a track record by running a marathon in 2 hours, 4 minutes and 10 seconds. This track is considered one of the fastest in the world due to its flat surface and perfect weather conditions in January.

In addition, among the women’s records, the result of Ruth Cepnegetic stands out, who in 2021 ran a marathon in 2 hours, 17 minutes and 08 seconds. This makes the Dubai Marathon not only a challenge for running enthusiasts, but also a platform for setting world records.

Dubai is not the only city in the United Arab Emirates where the races take place. Here are some other popular events: 1. Abu Dhabi Marathon: This marathon takes place in December and attracts many participants. In 2022, more than 20,000 runners registered for it. The highway runs along the picturesque coast and cultural attractions of the city.

2. Sharjah Marathon: This event is also held annually and includes races at different distances: from 3 to 42 kilometers. Sharjah is known for its beautiful parks and embankments, which makes its route especially attractive.

3. Fujairah Race: This is a unique event that takes place in the mountains of Fujairah. Participants can choose a distance from 5 to 21 kilometers, enjoying stunning views of the mountains and the coast.

4. Dubai Creek Run: This is a less formal race that runs along the historic Dubai Creek. Participants can choose a distance from 5 to 10 kilometers and enjoy the atmosphere of old Dubai.

The routes of the races in the Emirates are diverse. For example, the Dubai Marathon starts at the Dubai Mall — one of the largest shopping malls in the world — and passes by iconic buildings such as the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Opera. Participants can enjoy views of magnificent skyscrapers, as well as picturesque parks and embankments.

In Abu Dhabi, the marathon route runs along the famous Corniche promenade, where runners can enjoy the fresh sea air and beautiful beaches. In Sharjah, the highway passes through the cultural attractions of the city, including museums and historical buildings.

The Dubai Marathon is not just a sporting event; it is a celebration for all lovers of running and an active lifestyle. It unites people from different parts of the world and inspires them to new achievements. And the variety of races in the Emirates makes this region an ideal place for those who want to test themselves in sports, enjoy the beautiful scenery and discover the culture of this amazing country.

If you haven’t participated in one of these events yet, it might be time to think about including the race on your to-do list in the near future!