ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon brings together a major city marathon and shorter races that you can enjoy with friends or family. The eighth edition takes place on 12 December 2026. This year's important change is the start on Abu Dhabi Corniche: the waterfront becomes the starting point for the city's big running day.
Choose your distance
The announced programme includes the 42.195 km marathon, a two-person marathon relay, and 10 km, 5 km and 2.5 km family races. A personal sporting goal or supporting someone close to you can each be a reason to go. Your whole group need not choose the same race: first match the available distances with your own experience and the organiser's participation requirements.
For spectators, the rhythm of the event is part of the appeal: waiting for your runner, meeting after the finish and sharing the atmosphere of a major race. If supporting a participant, agree beforehand how you will find one another afterwards. Consult the current 2026 course map to choose a place to cheer.
The marathon starts before race day
Marathon Village at ADNOC Headquarters Park on the Corniche is scheduled to open on 7 December. The organiser announces sports, entertainment and educational activities there for participants and spectators. If you are visiting for the marathon, allow separate time for the village rather than fitting everything into the morning of 12 December.
Build your plan around your chosen distance and the participant information. Start times, race number collection and course maps must relate to 2026. Older maps and instructions may describe different traffic arrangements. If your group includes several runners, establish their programmes first, then agree on departure and return plans together.
Travelling to the marathon
Discuss your journey with Hola Taxi from an Abu Dhabi hotel or from Dubai to the marathon. Give your chosen distance, passenger count and whether you are running or supporting someone. Explain when you would like to return; for several participants, include each person's plans. You can also discuss airport pickup and travel to your hotel at the beginning of your stay.
Sources
Checked on 19 October 2026 (Asia/Dubai).
