Registrations are open for Dubai Run 2026, with the event scheduled for November 22 on Sheikh Zayed Road. The annual mass-participation run, organised by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and Dubai Sports Council, is part of the 10th edition of Dubai Fitness Challenge.
Last year’s event drew a record 307,000 participants. This year’s edition is the eighth time Dubai Run has taken place, and organisers say they expect similar or greater turnout.
Two routes are available. The 5km Downtown route starts on the Sharjah-bound carriageway of Sheikh Zayed Road near the Museum of the Future and takes runners past Dubai Opera and Burj Khalifa, finishing on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard near Dubai Mall.
The 10km route departs from the Abu Dhabi-bound carriageway, heading towards the DIFC Gate Building with views of Emirates Towers and the Museum of the Future along the way.
Both routes are free and open to all. Dedicated start zones and volunteer support will be on hand for People of Determination.
“Dubai Run embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to establish Dubai as one of the healthiest and most active cities in the world. It reflects our continued commitment to fostering greater community participation and embedding sport into everyday life, in line with the objectives of the Dubai Sports Sector Strategic Plan 2033, which promotes regular physical activity and enhances quality of life. As the UAE celebrates the Year of the Family 2026, Dubai Run brings families and friends together on Sheikh Zayed Road, transforming one of the city’s most iconic thoroughfares into a vibrant running track framed by Dubai’s renowned landmarks. This shared experience highlights the power of sport to strengthen family bonds, bridge generations, and foster a stronger sense of community. Beyond the event itself, our ambition is to inspire lasting lifestyle changes, encouraging people of all ages to embrace physical activity and make healthy habits an integral part of their lives throughout the year,” Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council said in a statement.
“Dubai Run demonstrates the power of movement that can bring people together through an experience that is inclusive, accessible and unmistakably Dubai. Following a record-breaking 307,000 participants last year, we are excited to welcome residents and visitors back to Sheikh Zayed Road for the eighth edition, giving everyone – from families and first-time runners to experienced athletes – the opportunity to take part and achieve their 30×30 together. As we celebrate the 10th edition of Dubai Fitness Challenge, Dubai Run reflects the initiative’s continued ambition to make physical activity accessible and inspire everyone to find a way to make movement part of their everyday lives,” Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) added.
Registered participants can collect their bib and T-shirt from the Dubai Municipality 30×30 Fitness Village at Zabeel Park between 9 and 21 November. Collection hours vary by day: Monday to Thursday, 16:00 to 23:00; Friday, 12:00 to 23:00; Saturday and Sunday, 08:00 to 23:00.
