Dubai Metro Announces Extended Operating Hours for 25th Anniversary Marathon
In a significant move to support one of the city's premier sporting events, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has officially announced extended operating hours for the Dubai Metro on Sunday, February 1, 2026. This strategic decision aims to ensure the smooth and efficient movement of runners and spectators attending the highly anticipated Dubai Marathon 2026, which marks a major milestone as the event celebrates its 25th anniversary.
Enhanced Metro Services for Marathon Day
According to the RTA, metro services will operate from 5:00 AM until 12:00 AM (midnight) on the day of the marathon. This extension is specifically designed to allow participants and visitors to travel more easily to and from various marathon-related locations across Dubai. By providing extended hours, the RTA seeks to ease potential congestion on roads and encourage the widespread use of public transport during this major sporting event, reinforcing Dubai's commitment to hosting large-scale activities with reliable infrastructure.
Details of the Dubai Marathon 2026
The Dubai Marathon 2026 is set to be a landmark edition, commemorating a quarter-century of the race. Runners will tackle a fast and flat course, a key feature that has made this event popular among athletes worldwide. The race will culminate with a grandstand finish inside the Dubai Police Academy, offering a strong and memorable finale for both competitors and spectators alike.
For this year's edition, race start times have been adjusted to improve overall conditions and flow. Elite marathon runners will begin their race at 5:45 AM, followed by the general marathon field at 6:30 AM. Notably, this start time is 30 minutes earlier than the 2025 schedule, reflecting organizers' efforts to optimize the event experience.
Multiple Race Categories to Suit All Levels
The Dubai Marathon continues to cater to a diverse range of fitness levels by offering multiple race categories. Participants can choose from:
- The full marathon, covering a distance of 42.2 kilometres
- The half-marathon, spanning 21.1 kilometres
- A 10-kilometre race for those seeking a moderate challenge
- A 4-kilometre fun run designed specifically for families and first-time participants
This inclusive approach ensures that the event remains accessible to everyone, from elite athletes to casual runners and community members.
RTA's Commitment to Smooth Event Logistics
The RTA emphasized that the extended metro hours are part of a broader initiative to ensure seamless travel for all involved in the marathon. By enhancing public transport options, Dubai aims to minimize disruptions and provide a supportive environment for both local and international attendees. This move aligns with the city's ongoing focus on integrating sporting events with efficient urban mobility solutions, showcasing Dubai's capability to host world-class occasions with precision and care.
As the 25th anniversary Dubai Marathon approaches, these logistical preparations underscore the importance of public transport in facilitating large gatherings and promoting a sustainable, spectator-friendly experience.
