UAE Running Events Diary

Set yourself a goal. Start training for one of these calorie-burning challenges

JANUARY
STANDARD CHARTERED DUBAI MARATHON
This 42km race kickstarts at the world’s tallest building, takes you along the beach front and finishes back at the jawdropping Burj Khalifa. There is a 10km and 3km fun run too. Log onto dubaimarathon.org for more details.

FEBRUARY
RAK HALF MARATHON
Known as one of the fastest courses in the world, this race has everyone climbing out of bed and driving to the mountains. Visit rakmarathon.org for more information.
TRI YAS
Nothing spurs you on more to score a PB than great scenery. With Tri Yas you get to swim, run and cycle around the iconic Formula 1 track. To find out more details call 800 927.
NIKE WE RUN WADI BIH
This 72km race is open to teams and individuals. The route takes you – you’ve guessed it – through Wadi Bih and into the mountains of Oman. Find out more details at wadibih.com.

MARCH
ABU DHABI TRIATHLON
The world’s best will arrive in the UAE to compete for the USD50,000 grand prize. If you’re not yet ready to take on a full triathlon, there is also a sprint category and relay category. See abudhabitriathlon for details.

APRIL
THE VERTICAL MARATHON
Runners will gather at Emirates Towers this month to climb the 52 steps and help raise funds for the Medecins Sans Frontieres charity. See dubaiverticalmarathon.org for more details.

JULY
DUBAI FITNESS COMPETITION
You want to make sure that you’re at the top of your game when they announce the date for the Dubai Fitness Competition. This crossfit-style workout that looks for the fittest man and woman in Dubai has a Dhs50,000 prize. Now that’s worth hitting the gym for.

DECEMBER
CREEK STRIDERS HALF MARATHON
This popular race fills up fast. And no surprise as the route takes you around one of the prettiest parts of the city.
SPINNEYS CYCLE CHALLENGE
This 92km race takes you past Dubai’s most famous landmarks. To sign up for this calorie-burner visit premiermarathons.com.