News DeskDubai, UAE – Dubai will once again command global attention on the road-running calendar on Sunday, 8 February 2026, as the Burj2Burj Half Marathon returns for its third edition, drawing more than 13,700 runners from the UAE and around the world.
Organised by World’s Iconic and supported by the Dubai Sports Council, the 21-kilometre race will begin at Emirates Towers at 6:30 a.m. and finish at Jumeirah Gardens, taking participants past some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, including the Museum of the Future, Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab.
The rapid growth of the event has positioned Burj2Burj as one of the region’s most prominent international road-running races. Participation has surged by more than 170 per cent between its first and second editions, followed by a further 50 per cent increase this year, with international runners now accounting for over 30 per cent of the field.
Issa Sharif, Director of Sports Events at the Dubai Sports Council, said the race reflects Dubai’s long-term commitment to sport and active lifestyles.
“Races such as Burj2Burj highlight Dubai’s dedication to delivering world-class sporting experiences for residents and visitors alike, while strengthening its position as a global hub for major international sporting events,” Sharif said.
Despite being only in its third year, the event has attracted elite athletes from Africa, Europe and beyond, underlining its growing global appeal and operational excellence through effective public-private collaboration.
The 2026 elite men’s race will be led by Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and three-time world champion, who boasts a half marathon personal best of 59:21. He will face strong competition from 2025 World Marathon Champion Alphonce Simbu and Germany’s 2022 European champion Richard Ringer.
In the women’s category, Kenya’s Irene Cheptai, a world cross-country champion and Chicago Marathon bronze medallist, headlines the field alongside Jacqueline Cherono, winner of the 2025 Rotterdam Marathon, and Britain’s Alexandra Bell, a two-time European cross-country champion and Olympic finalist.
Prize money will be awarded to the top ten elite finishers in both races, with winners earning AED 40,000, followed by AED 20,000 for second place and AED 16,000 for third. Additional incentives include bonuses for breaking the 60-minute barrier, as well as special awards for Emirati athletes and age-group competitors.
The event is supported by key government entities including Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority, with integrated operational plans covering medical services, hydration stations and security to ensure the highest safety standards.
With its iconic route, elite competition and growing international participation, the Burj2Burj Half Marathon continues to cement Dubai’s reputation as a leading destination for global sporting events.
