Get Ready for an Exciting 2025 in Dubai: A Year of Fitness Challenges
If your fitness goals for 2025 are all about pushing your limits or simply trying something new, why not ditch the treadmill and dive into an exhilarating sporting event? Dubai offers an array of sports events tailored for every age and fitness level, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete aiming for a marathon or a casual runner looking for a fun jog, there are numerous opportunities to get your heart racing. Make 2025 the year you achieve your personal bests (PBs) in running or cycling. Here are some of the major sporting events in Dubai for 2025 that you won’t want to miss.
Sports Events in January
January 11: Skechers Performance Run Series
Good shoes and plenty of excitement are all you need to enjoy this thrilling series that offers four different tracks: 3k, 5k, 10k, and 10 miles (16k). The races kick off and conclude near Rashid School, taking you through the peaceful streets of Nad Al Sheba. Upon completing your run, you’ll receive a T-shirt, a medal, and a downloadable certificate. Additional races are scheduled for Sunday, February 2, and Sunday, March 9.
Dhs125 (under 18); Dhs175 (18+). Saturday, January 11, 7:30 AM. Near Rashid School. supersportsuae.com (050 1646967)
January 12: Dubai Marathon
Put your running regimen to the ultimate test and join the Dubai Marathon on Sunday, January 12. The race begins at 7 AM and starts and finishes on Umm Suqeim Road, allowing you to soak in stunning views of the sea and the Burj Al Arab. Participants can choose from various distances including the full 42km marathon (for ages 18+), a 10km race (ages 15+), or a family-friendly 4km option.
Dhs50 (4km), Dhs85 (10km), Dhs150 (42km). Sunday, January 12, 7 AM. Umm Suqeim. dubaimarathon.org.
January 19: King & Queen Swim Race
Think you’re a strong swimmer? Prove it at the King & Queen Swim Race, taking place at Dubai Islands on Sunday, January 19. The race starts at 6:15 AM, featuring various distances, including 800m, 1.6km, or 3.2km. For younger swimmers, there are 200m and 400m options for ages eight and up, making it a fun family event.
Dhs50 (200m or 400m), Dhs110 (800m), Dhs125 (1.6km), Dhs150 (3.2km). Sunday, January 19, 6:15 AM. Dubai Islands. raceroster.com (04 457 8620).
January 25 – 26: Spartan Race Trifecta
This year marks the inaugural Trifecta of challenging races testing endurance, strength, and agility over a single weekend at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Scheduled for Saturday, January 25, and Sunday, January 26, racers will tackle a grueling 5km, 10km, or 21km distance, navigating through mud, climbing obstacles, and leaping over flames in pursuit of a coveted medal.
From Dhs295 (Sprint race), From Dhs365 (Super race), From Dhs420 (Beast race), From Dhs90 (Kids race). Saturday, January 25 – Sunday, January 26. Dubai Parks and Resorts. arabia.spartan.com
Sports Events in February
February 2: Community Runs at Ripe Market
If you’re seeking a fitness goal but aren’t quite ready for a marathon, consider this community event hosted by the Ripe Market. Choose from three distances to challenge yourself: 2.5km, 5km, or 10km. There are two runs scheduled for 2024—on Sunday, February 2, and Sunday, April 27. After the race, enjoy delicious food from various stalls.
Dhs116 (2.5km), Dhs126 (5km), Dhs137 (10km). Sunday, February 2 and April 27, 7 AM. Ripe Market Academy Park, Umm Suqeim. promosevensport.com.
February 8: M1 Run
Ready to put your training to the test? The M1 Run challenges participants to navigate a seven-storey uphill carpark spanning 1.2km, followed by a 33-floor stairwell at Media One Hotel & Tower, containing over 700 stairs. Although this event is not for the faint-hearted, the rewards are worthwhile—up to Dhs10,000 in prizes and goody bags, with all profits going to the Al Jalila Foundation for cancer patient treatments.
From Dhs150. Saturday, February 8, 7:30 AM (registration); 9 AM (race). P7 Arena, Media One Hotel. hopasports.com
February 9: Burj2Burj
Back for its second edition, this half marathon takes place on Sunday, February 9. Enjoy breathtaking views as you run between two of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks: Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa. The 21.1km race is open to runners aged 16 and older and starts at Burj Al Arab, winding down the Jumeirah coastline before crossing the Dubai Water Canal and finishing at Burj Khalifa. A race village with activities and food stands awaits at Burj Park, so invite your friends and family to cheer you on.
Dhs240. Sunday, February 9, 6 AM. Burj Al Arab, Umm Suqeim. burj2burj.com.
February 11: Skechers Performance Run Series
This run, starting near Rashid School in Nad Al Sheba, offers a delightful route through the community. Choose between the 3km, 5km, 10k, or 16km distances, and upon completion, receive a T-shirt, a medal, and a downloadable certificate.
Dhs125 (under 18); Dhs175 (18+). Saturday, January 6, 7:30 AM. Near Rashid School. supersportsuae.com (050 1646967)
February 16: Desert Palm X-Country Run
Kickstart your day with this early morning run at 6 AM, featuring distances of 3km, 5km, or 10km around the picturesque Melia Desert Palm Hotel. The route winds through scenic horse fields and nature, making it a refreshing experience for families and individuals alike. All finishers will receive a T-shirt, medal, and downloadable certificate. Registration closes at 11:59 PM on Monday, February 10.
From Dhs125. Sunday, February 16, 6 AM. Melia Desert Palm Hotel. supersportsuae.com (050 164 6967).
February 22: Dubai Canal Run
This event caters to runners of all abilities, featuring a 3km fun run, a 5km challenge, and a 10km race. The course boasts stunning views of Downtown Dubai and its iconic landmarks. Enjoy music and entertainment at the race village both before and after your run. Kids can also join in on the fun with a 1km run and various activities.
Dhs52.50 (1km), Dhs99.75 (3km), Dhs15.50 (5km), Dhs157 (10km). Saturday, February 22, 7 AM. Dubai Canal. premieronline.com
February 23: Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge
Whether you’re a budding cyclist or a seasoned rider, it’s time to gear up for the main event of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge on Sunday, February 23. The race features a 92km course, with build-up rides starting from 35km since September. Participants over the age of 19 can join, and there’s a shorter 40km ride for those aged 13 and above.
Dhs325 (all distances). Sunday, February 23, 6 AM. cyclechallenge.ae.
February 23: Dubai Investments Green Run
This event is designed for participants of all ages, featuring a 3km fun run and a timed 5km run. There are cash prizes totaling Dhs18,000 for the 5km run winners in male, female, and youth categories, along with sustainable prizes for the top three ranked men and women in the 5km category. Get fit while competing for cash prizes!
Dhs50 (all races, ages up to 15), Dhs60 (3km fun run), Dhs80 (5km). Sunday, February 23. Dubai Investments Park. premieronline.com
February 28 – March 2: 400 Ultra With Rio
This ultra-triathlon event invites endurance athletes from around the globe to face a monumental challenge. Uniting 200 athletes, including 50 solo competitors and 50 teams of three, the Ultra With Rio showcases resilience, determination, and inclusivity. This unique event is led by Nick, the founder of Team AngelWolf, along with his son Rio, who lives with a rare chromosome condition.
Dhs787.50 (solo), Dhs1,575 (team). Friday, February 28 – Sunday, March 2, 6 AM. premieronline.com
Sports Events in March
March 3: The Unity Run
Participate in the Unity Run at Expo City Dubai for a good cause. This event allows you to walk, jog, or run 3km, 5km, or 10km routes, promoting inclusivity and support for people of determination. Everyone is welcome to join in this inspiring event.
Free (kids, people of determination); Dhs50 (3km); Dhs100 (5km); Dhs150 (10km). Sunday, March 3. Expo City Dubai. unityrun.ae (04 333 9 222).
March 9: Skechers Performance Run Series
Join the Skechers Performance Run Series as you navigate the streets near Rashid School in Nad Al Sheba. Choose between four distances: 3k, 5k, 10k, or 16k. Upon finishing, each participant will receive a T-shirt, medal, and downloadable certificate.
Dhs125 (under 18); Dhs175 (18+). Sunday, March 9, 7:30 AM. Near Rashid School. supersportsuae.com (050 1646967)
March 16: GRIT+TONIC Triathlon at Al Mamzar Park
Prepare for an exhilarating triathlon that begins with open water swimming in the lagoon, followed by cycling and running through Mamzar Park. This beautiful beachfront course is lined with palm trees and offers a stunning sea view, perfect for both beginners and seasoned triathletes. All finishers receive medals and T-shirts, creating a vibrant community atmosphere filled with music and support.
Dhs249 (under 18), Dhs330 (adults), Dhs200 (relay). Sunday, March 16, 6:30 AM onwards. Alexandria St, Al Mamzar, Dubai. supersportsuae.com (04 164 6967).
Sports Events in April
April 27: Community Run at the Ripe Market
If you’re looking for a fitness goal but aren’t ready for a marathon, this community event hosted by the Ripe Market is perfect for you. Choose from three challenging distances: 2.5km, 5km, or 10km. After your run, enjoy delicious food from a variety of stalls.
Dhs116 (2.5km), Dhs126 (5km), Dhs137 (10km). Sunday, February 2 and April 27, 7 AM. Ripe Market Academy Park, Umm Suqeim. promosevensport.com.
Sports Events in October
October 25: Battle Cancer Challenge
Join the Battle Cancer Challenge this October to help raise funds for cancer awareness. While the exact venue is yet to be announced, participants will engage in a series of fitness challenges aiming to complete 20,000 reps in 90 minutes across different stations.
Saturday, October 25. battlecancer.com (04 809 6605).
October 25 – 27: Dubai Active
This weekend-long event celebrates fitness and wellness as it returns from the summer months. Expect a variety of fitness and yoga classes, nutrition talks, and special meet-and-greets with celebrity trainers, with around 35,000 participants anticipated. Ticket registration is now open for this exciting event at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Opening hours TBC, Friday, October 24 – Sunday, October 26, Dubai World Trade Centre. dubaiactiveshow.com (04 559 4732).
Sports Events in November
November: Dubai Ride
Gear up for the Dubai Ride, part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge. While the official dates and routes are yet to be confirmed, expect to cycle through some of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks. Thousands of cyclists participate in this exhilarating event, so don’t miss out!
November: Dubai Run
Returning as the grand finale of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, Dubai Run invites thousands of participants to hit the streets of Sheikh Zayed Road. Although the official date and route are still pending, the event typically offers breathtaking views of Dubai’s landmarks, including a finish line near the Time Out Market.
November: Dubai Stand-up Paddle
Another highlight of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, the Stand-up Paddle event invites participants of all skill levels. While official dates are not yet confirmed, last year’s event took place at the stunning Hatta Dam. Expect certified coaches on hand to provide guidance and ensure everyone has a great experience.
November: The Unity Run
Participate in the Unity Run at Expo City Dubai this November, a charitable event that encourages walking, jogging, or running over 3km, 5km, or 10km routes. With a focus on inclusivity, this event welcomes people of determination and is designed to flex those muscles while supporting a good cause. The official date will be announced later in the year.
Free (kids, people of determination); Dhs50 (3km); Dhs100 (5km); Dhs150 (10km). November. Expo City Dubai. unityrun.ae (04 333 9 222).
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