Elite fields set the pace at the 25th Dubai Marathon
Dubai is ready to run again.
On Sunday, February 1, s Dubai Marathon reaches a turning point as it celebrates its 25th anniversary. Over a quarter of a century, the race has evolved into one of the most popular road events on the global calendar, renowned for speed, scale and an environment that feels unmistakably Dubai.
From its early years to the present Gold Label statusthe marathon has earned a reputation based on simplicity and ambition. The course rewards pacing as the roads are wide and smooth. The climate invites early morning concentration. with the continuous support of Dubai Sports Council, The event remains a destination for elite runners chasing fast times and recreational athletes chasing personal goals.
On race day, the elite marathoners set off at 5:45 a.m., followed by the main marathon field at 6:30 a.m. on campus. Dubai Police Academy. A half marathon, a 10km road race and a 4km fun run round out a program that welcomes everyone from world-class professionals to first-timers. Few events manage that balance as seamlessly as Dubai.
The course itself plays a central role in the tribe’s identity. Starting on Dubai Police Academy University runners stream along King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street and: Jumeirah Beach Road, (two circles in the Jumierah Beach Road section) passing by Burj Al Arab and: Jumeirah Beach Hotel before turning around Palm Jumeirah and: Downtown Dubai. The end is coming Dubai Police Academy University, a visual statement that feels appropriate for a race built on scale and scenery. This year’s edition features subtle adjustments to the route, including new twists and turns Dubai Media City and a custom bay structure nearby Burj Al Arab changes designed to maintain flow and clarity.
The elite men’s field brings experience and ambition in equal measure. Gadis Birhanu leads the series after a strong run that includes a runner-up finish in the Lisbon Marathon and a top-ten finish in Prague. His career-best 2:04:59 from Seville remains a reminder of his ability to perform on fast courses. Dubai offers an environment suited to its strengths.
It is to join him Berehanu Tsegu, who returns from an impressive marathon debut in Dubai last year where he finished second in 2:05:14. That performance immediately placed him among the event’s most dangerous contenders. The background of his trail adds depth to his profile and suggests further growth in distance.
The depth in the men’s race is evident He is Rumi. a proven performer who has won in Rotterdam and consistently leads the way in major events. Veterans such as Rubbish Robi and Aichu Banti add extra strength to an infield designed for speed and agility.
Fantu Worku: After an impressive marathon debut in Berlin, where she finished fifth in 2:21:57, is emerging as a major name in the women’s race. His background in track and cross country speaks to a wide range of skills that translate well to the roads of Dubai.
He will be joined by rising talents including Anchinalu Desi Genene, fresh from the victories in Seville and Beijing Tigst Getnet, whose personal best was set on these same streets in 2023. Experience comes through athletes such as: Sofia Asefawhose return to the marathon was steady and purposeful, and Abebech AfeworkA former Dubai standout who continues to compete at a high level.
What makes it? Dubai Marathon special is the combination of access and ambition, global stars sharing the same roads as thousands of everyday runners. It’s the sunset, the sunrise, the rhythm of the feet on the smooth pavement and the feeling that the city itself is part of the race.
