Long-distance running continues to grow across the Gulf, and the marathons in GCC 2026 calendar is shaping up to be one of the region’s most active yet. Runners planning their season often look for a clear overview of GCC running events in 2026, from major city marathons to desert routes and technical trail races. This round-up highlights some of the confirmed races for the marathon calendar in the Middle East in 2026, along with dates and locations so you can map out where to train and how to register. Whether you are aiming for big-city energy, remote desert landscapes or weekend trail challenges, these events offer a strong mix of options across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait and Qatar.

Missed the first part? Here you go.

Oman Desert Marathon

January 10–14

The Oman Desert Marathon opens the year with a multi-stage race set across the sands of the Wahiba desert. Taking place from January 10 to 14, the event offers several distances, including the full marathon, with runners crossing dunes, remote valleys and open desert terrain. It remains one of the most distinctive entries in the marathons in GCC 2026 line-up, especially for those looking for a technical endurance challenge.

Doha Marathon

January 16

The Doha Marathon, sponsored by Ooredoo, returns on January 16 with a variety of distances, including the classic 42.195 km. The route traditionally passes the Corniche and West Bay, giving runners a scenic city loop. As one of the most central running races in the UAE and Saudi in 2026, it draws both local and international participants.

Muscat Marathon

January 23–24

The Muscat Marathon, held on January 23 and 24, is one of the key entries in the Middle East running race calendar 2026. The event includes full and half marathons, 10K races and community categories. The course highlights Muscat’s coastline and urban areas, making it a strong option for runners who prefer a fast, road-friendly environment.

Riyadh Marathon

January 31

Scheduled for January 31, the Riyadh Marathon is a major milestone for athletes looking for where to run races in Saudi Arabia and the UAE in 2026. The event offers a full marathon, half marathon, 10k and a family run, attracting runners from across the region. As confirmed by organisers, the event continues to expand each year with growing local participation.

Dubai Marathon

February 1

The Dubai Marathon 2026 date is officially set for February 1. Known for its fast, flat route, it remains one of the best marathon races to run in GCC in 2026. Runners can follow the official site for updates about registration for Dubai Marathon 2026, training tips and event announcements.

Gulf Bank 642 Marathon Kuwait

Date TBC

The Gulf Bank 642 Marathon in Kuwait is expected to return in 2026, though the official date hasn’t yet been announced. Traditionally held in the cooler months, the race includes full, half and shorter distances, attracting a strong community turnout.

Abu Dhabi Marathon

December 12

The Abu Dhabi Marathon is confirmed for December 12, offering runners a late-year goal within the full and half marathons in the UAE 2026 calendar. The race features a fast route past iconic landmarks, including ADNOC Headquarters and the Corniche, and remains one of the region’s well-organised major events.

Jeddah Half Marathon

Date TBC

As of now, the Jeddah half marathon 2026 date hasn’t been released. The event is expected to return, but no official schedule or registration details are available yet. This section will be updated once organisers confirm the timing.

Expo City Half Marathon (Dubai)

April 19

The Expo City Dubai Half Marathon is set for April 19, offering a scenic course through the Expo City district. The event includes multiple distances, making it a practical race for runners preparing for longer events later in the year.

AlUla Trail Race

January 22–23

The AlUla Trail Race in Saudi Arabia takes place from January 22 to 23 and features several off-road distances. The event showcases the landscapes of AlUla, making it one of the standout additions to the broader marathons in GCC 2026 scene for runners seeking a trail challenge rather than a road marathon.

G.O.A.T. Ultra Trail Race

January 24–25

The G.O.A.T. Ultra Trail Race, scheduled for January 24 and 25, is held in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. The event includes multiple trail distances and technical terrain suited to experienced runners. It adds variety to the GCC running events 2026 calendar and attracts athletes looking for elevation and rugged routes.

Ramadan Race

February 28

Held on February 28, the Ramadan Race offers various distances in a community-focused format. The event serves as a good way to stay active early in the year and remains a recurring part of the UAE’s racing culture.

Jabal Al Mebrah Trail Race

April 4

Set for April 4, the Jabal Al Mebrah Trail Race challenges runners with mountainous terrain and cooler early-spring weather. It is well-suited for athletes preparing for summer trail seasons and adds a distinct technical element to the Middle East running race calendar 2026.