Now that the weather has cooled down, it’s the perfect time to lace up and take part in one of the UAE’s coming community runs. Whether it’s to support a cause, join friends and family outdoors, or simply enjoy the energy of race day, several events are still open for registration before the year ends.
The Family Pink Run, October 18
Also known as the ADCB Zayed Sports City Pink Run, this event takes place at Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi. It aims to raise awareness and money for breast cancer awareness with 3km, 5km and 10km options suitable for everyone, from beginners and families to seasoned runners.
Expect a festive atmosphere with entertainment, refreshments and an exclusive event T-shirt and finisher’s medal. Registration is nearly full, but there are still limited spots left.
The Miral Pink Run, October 26
Taking place at Warner Bros World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, this free community event also supports breast cancer awareness. It features 2km, 5km and 10km races and welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels.
Alongside the run, there will be wellness sessions, light fitness activities and children’s entertainment. Finisher medals are given to all participants and race pack collection is available ahead of time. Registration is still open, but is expected to close soon.
Dubai Run, November 23
One of the largest community runs in the country, the Dubai Run will return for another year, taking over Sheikh Zayed Road. With 5km and 10km routes, it draws thousands each year, including families, casual joggers and experienced runners alike. The event turns the city’s busiest road into a celebration of movement and motivation.
The routes begin near the Museum of the Future but finish lines differ: the 10 km route ends near DIFC’s The Gate Building, while the 5 km route wraps up by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, close to Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa. Registration has not yet opened, but is expected to soon.
Zayed Charity Run, November 29
Recognised as “the kindest run in the world", the event embodies the UAE’s spirit of giving. This year’s proceeds in the capital will support three major programmes at the Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Centre.
The race will begin at Wahat Al Karama and finish at Erth Hotel Abu Dhabi, with both locations set to host community villages featuring food kiosks, entertainment and family-friendly activities. Runners can choose between 3km, 5km and 10km distances. Registration is now open.
Emirates Villages Run Series 2025, until December 6
The unique running challenge spans all seven emirates, with races held every weekend until December 6.
Participants can run through heritage villages with diverse landscapes in these locations: Qidfa (Fujairah) on October 11, Masfout (Ajman) on October 18, Al Rams (Ras Al Khaimah) on October 25, Falaj Al Mualla (Umm Al Quwain) on November 1, Dibba Al Hisn (Sharjah) on November 22, Al Lisaili (Dubai) on November 29 and Al Shuwaib (Abu Dhabi) on December 6.
The series welcomes all fitness levels and ages with race distances of 1.5km (family run), 5km and 10km. Alongside competitive running, there are traditional Emirati cultural performances and a festive atmosphere at each venue. Registration is currently open, with an entry fee of Dh50 per race.
Adnoc Abu Dhabi Marathon, December 13
The Adnoc Abu Dhabi Marathon is one of the UAE’s leading running events, drawing both elite athletes and amateur runners from around the world. Participants can choose from a full marathon, a relay half marathon, or shorter distances of 10km, 5km and 2.5km.
The route is flat, fast and scenic, passing Abu Dhabi landmarks such as the Corniche, Zayed Sports City, Qasr Al Hosn and the Adnoc Headquarters, which also serves as the start and finish point. Registration is now open for all distances.
