Runners in the region, get your calendars out — the Riyadh Marathon Festival 2026 is back, and this time, it’s bigger than ever. Taking place from Wednesday, January 28 to Saturday, January 31, the event will transform Mayadeen in Diriyah into a buzzing sports and lifestyle hub.
Hosted by the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA), the festival goes beyond the traditional one-day race format. Expect four days packed with community spirit, entertainment, and fitness activities that celebrate running as much as the social experience around it.
For those in the UAE, this is shaping up to be one of the most exciting short-haul trips of the year — a mix of sport, culture, and travel all rolled into one unforgettable weekend.
expectations at the Riyadh Marathon Festival 2026
Unlike your usual run-through-the-city event, this edition of the Riyadh Marathon feels more like a fitness festival. There will be live music, food trucks, wellness sessions, and a marathon village that turns race day into a family-friendly affair.
Participants can look forward to:
- Full Marathon (42.195 km): For participants aged 20 and above.
- Half Marathon (21.1 km): For those aged 18 and older.
- 10 km Race: Open to runners aged 17 and above.
- Fun Run (5 km): Designed for all ages and abilities — a great option for families or first-timers.
Whether you’re an elite runner or just joining for fun, the event aims to create a welcoming environment for everyone.
The festival vibe in Diriyah
The setting at Mayadeen, Diriyah, adds something truly special. Surrounded by the cultural beauty of Saudi Arabia’s heritage hub, the course offers a scenic mix of modern Riyadh energy and historic backdrops.
Expect a lively marathon village filled with food, music, and plenty of entertainment. It’s the kind of atmosphere that encourages you to stay long after crossing the finish line. Even non-runners will find plenty to enjoy, from interactive zones and fitness workshops to live performances that make it feel like a citywide celebration.
Ideal for UAE-based runners
For participants in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the Riyadh Marathon Festival 2026 offers the perfect reason for an active getaway.
The flight from the UAE to Riyadh is short and convenient, and with the event scheduled over a long weekend, it’s easy to plan a quick race-cation. The weather in January is also ideal for running — cooler temperatures, manageable humidity, and a festive outdoor vibe that adds to the fun.
Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to explore Diriyah, one of Saudi Arabia’s most significant cultural destinations, now filled with modern dining, art, and entertainment experiences.
Registration and what to plan for
While registration fees for 2026 haven’t been announced yet, they are expected to be similar to last year’s rates. In 2025, entry started from around SAR 62 for the shorter runs and went up to SAR 149 for the full marathon.
Here are a few helpful tips if you’re planning to participate:
- Register early to secure your preferred category — spots tend to fill quickly.
- Book accommodation near Diriyah for easy access to the marathon village and festival area.
- Start your training plan now, especially if you’re running the longer distances.
- Check travel options — with multiple daily flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, getting to Riyadh is simple and affordable.
- Follow official updates for race kit collections and route details, which are usually shared a few weeks before the event.
It’s worth the trip
The Riyadh Marathon Festival has become one of the biggest running events in the Gulf, attracting tens of thousands of participants each year. It’s not just a test of endurance; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and the growing regional love for fitness.
For UAE runners, it’s a chance to join an international crowd, experience the festival energy of Riyadh, and tick off a new marathon destination — all without travelling too far from home.
With the dates locked and excitement building, the countdown to the Riyadh Marathon Festival 2026 has officially begun. And this is one race weekend that promises more than just miles — it’s an experience to remember.
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