The Dubai Marathon 2026 returned spectacularly on February 1, 2026, celebrating its 25th anniversary with record participation, ideal weather, and world-class performances. Widely known as one of the fastest road races in the world, this year’s event once again lived up to its reputation.
Runners competed on a flat and fast course that began near the iconic Burj Al Arab and finished at the Dubai Police Academy. Cool early-morning temperatures between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius created perfect conditions for elite athletes and amateur runners alike.
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Record Participation and Smooth
The Dubai Marathon 2026 attracted a record 20,000 registered participants from around the world. Around 4,000 runners competed in the full marathon, while thousands more took part in the half marathon, 10 km race, and 4 km fun run.
To support runners and spectators, the Dubai Metro extended its operating hours from 5 AM until midnight. This helped ensure smooth movement across the city and added to the event’s overall efficiency, a key reason why the race continues to be highly regarded by international athletes.
Early Starts and Race Categories
The elite marathon races began at 5:45 AM, giving top athletes a clear course and cooler conditions. The general marathon followed at 6:30 AM. Other race categories, including the half-marathon and shorter distances, were scheduled later in the morning.
This well-structured timing allowed participants of all levels to enjoy the event safely and comfortably, reinforcing the Dubai Marathon’s reputation as a runner-friendly international race.
Nibret Melak Shines in Men’s Elite Race
Ethiopia once again stamped its authority on the Dubai Marathon, with debutant Nibret Melak delivering a stunning performance in the men’s elite race. Melak crossed the finish line in a world-leading time of 2:04:00, one of the fastest marathon times recorded globally in 2026.
His victory marked the sixth consecutive debut win by an Ethiopian runner in the men’s race, underlining the country’s continued dominance in long-distance running. Melak’s time also tied as the third-fastest in the history of the Dubai Marathon course.
He was followed by fellow Ethiopian Yasin Haji in second place with 2:05:52, while Rwanda’s John Hakizimana finished third in 2:06:04.
Men’s Elite Top 10 – Dubai Marathon 2026
| Place | Athlete Name | Country | Finish Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nibret Melak | Ethiopia | 2:04:00 |
| 2 | Yasin Haji | Ethiopia | 2:05:52 |
| 3 | John Hakizimana | Rwanda | 2:06:04 |
| 4 | Molalign Fantahun | Ethiopia | 2:06:48 |
| 5 | Gizealew Ayana | Ethiopia | 2:06:48 |
| 6 | Geleta Jiregna | Ethiopia | 2:06:57 |
| 7 | Berehanu Tsega | Ethiopia | 2:07:13 |
| 8 | Gaddisa Tafa | Ethiopia | 2:07:51 |
| 9 | Dechasa Alemu | Ethiopia | 2:08:21 |
| 10 | Belay Tilahun Bezabeh | Ethiopia | 2:08:23 |
Ethiopian Sweep in Women’s Elite Race
The women’s elite race delivered just as much excitement, with Anchinalu Dessie producing a powerful late surge to claim victory. Dessie finished in 2:18:31, setting a new personal best and securing her third consecutive marathon win.
She overtook early leader Muliye Dekebo in the final stages, winning by a narrow margin of 12 seconds. Dekebo finished second in 2:18:43, while Fantu Worku claimed third place in 2:19:08. All three podium finishers represented Ethiopia, completing a clean sweep.
Women’s Elite Top 10 – Dubai Marathon 2026
| Place | Athlete Name | Country | Finish Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anchinalu Dessie | Ethiopia | 2:18:31 |
| 2 | Muliye Dekebo | Ethiopia | 2:18:43 |
| 3 | Fantu Worku | Ethiopia | 2:19:08 |
| 4 | Tiringo Mulu | Ethiopia | 2:21:12 |
| 5 | Maritu Ketema | Ethiopia | 2:21:52 |
| 6 | Askale Alemayehu | Ethiopia | 2:22:56 |
| 7 | Aberash Shilima | Ethiopia | 2:23:04 |
| 8 | Fantu Shugi | Ethiopia | 2:23:29 |
| 9 | Elifinesh Demise | Ethiopia | 2:23:30 |
| 10 | Abebech Afework | Ethiopia | 2:23:52 |
Elite Results Highlight Ethiopia’s Dominance
The top 10 results in both men’s and women’s categories showed overwhelming Ethiopian strength. In the men’s race, nine of the top ten finishers were from Ethiopia, while all top ten women’s finishers also hailed from the East African nation.
These results further cement the Dubai Marathon’s status as a key race for elite runners seeking fast times, prize money, and global recognition early in the marathon season.
Global Broadcast and International Reach
Dubai Marathon 2026 was broadcast live across multiple regions, ensuring worldwide coverage. Viewers tuned in through networks such as SuperSport in Africa, Dubai Sports in the Middle East and North Africa, and SPOTV across the Asia-Pacific region.
Full race results and leaderboards were published on the official Dubai Marathon website and World Athletics platforms. As of February 2, 2026, no major post-race changes or disqualifications had been reported.
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Why Dubai Marathon Continues to Stand Out
Over the past 25 years, the Dubai Marathon has built a strong reputation for excellence, fairness, and speed. Its flat course, strong organizational support, and ideal winter climate make it a favorite among elite runners aiming for personal bests and qualifying times.
The 2026 edition once again proved why the event remains a major fixture on the global marathon calendar. With record participation, smooth operations, and outstanding athletic performances, the Dubai Marathon successfully celebrated its silver jubilee in style.
As attention now turns to future editions, the legacy of the 25th Dubai Marathon will be remembered as another chapter in the city’s growing sporting history.