Need some extra motivation to get in shape in 2023? Set a goal for yourself and register for one of the UAE’s major sporting events. Here are our picks for the best triathlons, marathons, and swim meets to test you this season.
M1 Run 2023: February 11th
The M1 Run offers a unique race – a vertical challenge in Media One Hotel, where participants must run from the valet parking floor and up the steep car park ramps, before making a beeline for the stairway and racing all the way up 35 floors – for those looking for something a little different than the typical road races in the UAE. It’s a knee-slapping, quad-quivering endurance test, but there are plenty of prizes up for grabs. The race time is slightly more than six minutes. Do you think you could do it? The entry fee is Dhs131, and registration begins at 8 a.m.
Dubai Kitesurf Competition: 11 February
While tradition is important in Dubai’s winter watersports calendar, the annual Kitesurf Competition adds a dash of modern water-based athleticism to the mix. For a clear view of the two-part competition, spread a blanket along the shoreline at Nessnass Beach behind Sunset Mall.
Kitesurfers use a parachute-like kite to build momentum as they move across the water’s surface. Watch as these trained athletes compete in exciting stunts that will delight spectators of all ages. The Kitesurf Competition is part of the Dubai International Marine Club’s (DIMC) eight-month sporting calendar, which also includes sailing, rowing, and fishing tournaments.
UAE Tour 2023: 23 February
The UAE Tour, one of the region’s largest cycling challenges, returns to Dubai on February 23 for its latest edition. Prepare for seven days of non-stop action as the competition, the only WorldTour race in the Middle East, takes riders through five emirates and concludes on February 26. The 2023 edition promises to build on the success of its predecessor, which included a 1,081km route with a significant elevation gain of around 3,500m, mostly concentrated in Stages 4 and 7.
Dubai Marathon 2023: February 12
The Dubai Marathon returns after a two-year hiatus, with 30,000 runners expected to pound the pavements on Sunday, February 12. The 42km marathon is one of the most important sporting events in the UAE, and it runs the length of Beach Road and back, beginning and ending on Umm Sequim Road, opposite Madinat Jumeirah. It’s a long and arduous course, but the flat terrain makes it one of the fastest in the world, with elite runners attempting to break records. You can also enter the 10km and 4km races, which begin at 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., respectively. Dhs550 (42km), Dhs312 (10km), and Dhs184 are the entry fees (4km).
Ras Al Khaimah: Rak Half Marathon 2023
RAK, the UAE’s most popular half marathon, returns for its 16th edition, with runners taking to the streets of Marjan Island, passing major hotels as they head along Sheikh Mohammed bin Salem Road, and circling through Al-Amwaj Avenue before returning to the starting point for the finish line. Run the 21.1km race alone or in a relay team of two, or choose the shorter 10km or 5km routes. The entry fee for the half marathon is Dhs295, but you can pay extra for extras such as the Friday pasta party the night before and the celebratory post-race brunch. There are also VIP hotel packages available.
Al Marmoom Dune Run: 11 February, 2023
On a 5km dune run, kick sand behind you as you sprint through the scenic landscapes of Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve. Put on your workout gear and begin your Saturday morning with the first rays of sunlight, surrounded by pristine surroundings.
On hard and soft sand, cut your way through the soft dunes and around the iconic lakes. Al Marmoom is famous for its flora and fauna, which includes up to 500 flamingos and more than 360 other bird species, 158 of which are migratory. The race is open to participants aged 15 and up, with tickets costing AED150.
TriYas: 25 February
Abu Dhabi’s big triathlon, easily the region’s most enjoyable triathlon, includes a swim through Yas Marina, a cycle around the track at Yas Marina Circuit, and a run around Yas Marina. The Sprint category consists of a 750m swim, a 22km cycle, and a 5.5km run, whereas the Olympics category consists of a 1,500m swim, a 38km cycle, and a 10km run.
Dubai Fishing Competition: 1 March
The Dubai Fishing Competition will hook you from the start, as competitors compete to reel in the biggest catch and take home the top prize. Participate in two exciting meetings at the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC).
This tournament, organised by DIMC, is part of a month-long calendar that highlights traditional watersports to celebrate local heritage. Bring the whole family out to enjoy this exciting traditional activity for free.
Sharjah Gladiators OCR: March 18th, Dubai
Obstacle course racing (OCR) has grown in popularity in recent years, with each event claiming to be the biggest, baddest, and best. Gladiators OCR, a new kid on the block in Sharjah’s gnarly XQuarry Adventure Park, features 32 challenges that test strength, endurance, and agility, including challenges designed to put the park’s toughest 4WD vehicles to the test. ‘Gladiators’ must navigate a 6km gauntlet of obstacles over rocky terrain and challenging climbs throughout the 6km course. The entrance fee is Dhs195.
La Mer Open Water Swim: 18 March, Dubai
Make a splash at the La Mer Open Water Swim in Jumeirah. Swim 200m, 400m, 800m, or 1,600m, or swim as many distances as you want if you’re feeling particularly athletic. Your entry fee includes a spot in each race, as well as a swim cap, medal, and refreshments. Adults pay Dhs175 to enter, while children under the age of 18 pay Dhs125. Make like Dory and enter the 3.2km long distance swim on the same day for the ultimate swim endurance test.
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