Dubai Marathon takes place on 17 January 2027. Alongside the full 42.195 km marathon, the programme includes 10 km and a 4 km Fun Run. Come for a personal sporting goal, choose a shorter run with friends or support someone close to you.
If your holiday already falls in January, the event offers an unusual early-morning experience of the city. Choose your distance according to your preparation, though: an appealing travel idea does not replace a training plan. A shorter run may suit a group with mixed experience better as a shared activity.
Choosing your distance
Make the marathon the centre of your trip if you have trained specifically for it. We would keep the day before the start relaxed and avoid a packed sightseeing programme afterwards.
The 10 km is a separate race that may suit regular runners wanting to combine competition with a holiday. The 4 km Fun Run offers a shorter option; check age rules and registration with the organiser.
Supporters should agree arrangements with their runner in advance: where to cheer them on and how to meet afterwards. Do not assume you will be able to cross the course freely at any time.
What to do before 17 January
According to the organiser's FAQ, bib collection takes place on 13–16 January at The Agenda, Dubai Media City; there is no collection on race day. Participants therefore need to arrive before Sunday and set aside time to collect their race pack. This can affect flight and accommodation dates.
The marathon starts on Umm Sequim Road. For the 10 km and 4 km events, the General Info page specifies Al Sufouh after Madinat Jumeirah. The distances have different starts, and roads around the courses will be closed. Closer to the event, check the final map for your distance and the participant instructions.
Getting to the start and travelling after the finish
For an early departure, discuss a transfer from your hotel to the run. Include your distance, passenger numbers and accommodation address. When planning the return, allow time to change and rest after running. Agree a meeting time and place that account for road closures.
For a shorter mass-participation city run in November, explore Dubai Run as part of Fitness Challenge.
Sources
Facts checked on 15 October 2026.
