As Dubai gears up for its highly anticipated marathon weekend, motorists are advised to prepare for significant road closures across the city. With the Dubai Marathon set to take place this weekend, key roads will be affected, particularly in areas around Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah, and Al Sufouh. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is expected to release official updates soon, but based on last year’s closures, we can already anticipate potential diversions that will impact the flow of traffic throughout the weekend.
The Dubai Marathon is renowned for its exciting race categories, including the full 42.195 km marathon, a 10km race, and a 4km fun run. Runners will cover many of Dubai’s most iconic streets, creating the need for diversions on popular routes. To ensure you’re prepared, here’s everything you need to know about the expected closures, race timings, and travel tips for this weekend’s event.
The Route: A Scenic Race Through Dubai’s Iconic Streets
This year’s Dubai Marathon will follow a route similar to 2024, starting just by Madinat Jumeirah and heading towards Dubai College junction on Al Sufouh Road. From there, the marathon course will pass the base of the Palm Jumeirah trunk, heading to The Westin hotel, where it will turn back at the traffic lights.
Runners will continue along Al Sufouh Road, passing the race’s starting point before heading onto Beach Road. The course continues past popular landmarks like the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the newly developed Marsa Al Arab, before reaching the bridge at the Creek. Runners will then turn around and head back toward Madinat Jumeirah. This loop will be completed twice before participants make their final sprint toward the finish line, which is located just before the Dubai Police Academy.
The entire race will take place on some of the city’s most vibrant streets, so it’s no surprise that major traffic disruptions are expected, particularly along routes like King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, where several diversions and closures are anticipated.
Race Timings: Plan Your Travel Accordingly
With multiple race categories taking place throughout the day, the marathon event will cause major traffic disruptions at different times. Here are the official start times for the different races:
- Marathon Elite: 6:00 AM
- Marathon (General Runners): 7:00 AM
- 10km Road Race: 8:15 AM
- 4km Fun Run: 10:30 AM
Each race will have a considerable impact on traffic, especially during the early morning hours when the majority of closures will be in effect. If you’re planning to travel to the event or around the course, it’s important to be mindful of these timings to avoid delays.
Tips for Traveling to the Start Line
If you’re attending the event, it’s highly recommended to consider alternative methods of transportation to avoid the hassle of road closures and parking challenges. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber or Careem are a great option. However, it’s crucial to pre-book your ride to avoid last-minute complications.
Parking near the start line, particularly around the Madinat Jumeirah area, will likely be limited. However, taking the Dubai Metro is another convenient option. The nearest Metro station, Mall of the Emirates, is just a short walk from the start area. If you prefer a more active approach, you could even jog your way to the event — a warm-up before running the full marathon!
Race Pack Collection: Don’t Forget to Pick Up Your Kit
For those participating in the marathon, the race pack collection is an essential part of the experience. The packs, which include the all-important race bib and this year’s exclusive Adidas marathon t-shirt, can be picked up at the Adidas store in Dubai Mall. Make sure to plan ahead and visit the store during the following hours:
- Wednesday, January 8: 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Thursday, January 9: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Friday, January 10: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday, January 11: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
This is also a great time to pick up some last-minute race-day essentials, such as comfortable socks or energy gels.
Staying Hydrated and Preparing for Race Day
As always, staying hydrated and preparing physically for the race is key to success. Whether you’re running the marathon, the 10km race, or the 4km fun run, make sure to hydrate well ahead of race day and take advantage of water stations along the route.
For participants in the 42km marathon, rest is crucial, and it’s important to take it easy in the days leading up to the event. Don’t forget to stretch and take care of your body to avoid injury on the big day. If this is your first marathon or you’re new to distance running, be sure to review our comprehensive guide to preparing for the Dubai Marathon and other upcoming races.
Road Closures and Diversions to Watch Out For
During the marathon, expect major diversions across key areas of the city, including:
- Al Sufouh Road: This road is directly in the path of the marathon and will see heavy closures. Avoid traveling through this area unless absolutely necessary.
- Beach Road: Another major route that will be impacted by the event. This popular street will experience significant traffic delays and diversions, particularly during the morning race timings.
- King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street: Expect road closures along this key route as marathon runners pass through the area.
Drivers are strongly advised to avoid these roads on race day to reduce the risk of being caught in the event’s disruptions. You can expect significant delays in the surrounding areas as well, so it’s best to plan alternate routes or travel at non-peak times.
Final Thoughts: Good Luck to All Participants!
As race day draws near, the excitement around the Dubai Marathon builds. It’s a fantastic opportunity for seasoned athletes to challenge themselves and for newcomers to experience the thrill of running in one of the world’s most iconic cities. To all the participants, we wish you the best of luck! Whether you’re running for a personal best, for charity, or just to enjoy the atmosphere, your participation is what makes the Dubai Marathon so special.
For those looking for more information about other race events in Dubai, check out our guide to the city’s running scene and how to prepare for future events.
Get ready for a weekend of fitness, fun, and community spirit — just be sure to plan your travels and check for the latest updates on road closures to make your marathon weekend a smooth one! Visit Dubai.
Ossiano Wins Prestigious Art of Hospitality Award at MENA 50 Best Restaurants
