The Burj2Burj Half Marathon returned on Sunday with a near-sellout field and a world-class finish. The race underlined Dubai’s rise as a destination for elite road racing and mass participation. Quick times and a deep elite line-up could shape early-season rankings for distance runners.
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Race day and Burj2Burj Half Marathon highlights
More than 13,700 runners lined up for the 21.1km race, which started at 06:30. The event, organised by World’s Iconic and supported by the Dubai Sports Council, staged a flat, fast city course aimed at both elites and recreational runners.
Course and landmarks (Dubai)
The route set off in the Jumeirah Emirates Towers/DIFC area and finished near Burj Al Arab. Runners passed the Burj Khalifa in the opening kilometres, then ran west across Sheikh Zayed Road toward Umm Suqeim Park. The course offered spectator zones, hydration stations and live mile-markers to keep crowds engaged.
Key landmarks for readers
- Start: Jumeirah Emirates Towers / DIFC.
- Mid-race: Burj Khalifa and Sheikh Zayed Bridge.
- Finish: Umm Suqeim Park, near Burj Al Arab.
(See the official route map and race week schedule on the event website.)
Elite field and the headline result
Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei took the men’s title in 59:26, showing the course can yield fast times. A close chase included Kenya’s Nicholas Kipkorir and Tanzania’s Alphonce Simbu, who finished seconds behind. The depth on show confirmed the race’s pull for early-season form tests.
Prize money and elite incentives
Organisers confirmed a generous purse — AED 40,000 for first place, with prizes down to 10th. A performance bonus scheme rewards particularly fast times. On-site anti-doping controls were in place; prize payments are subject to clearance, organisers said.
City impact and community reach
Road closures affected central routes on race morning, with authorities asking motorists to follow diversion signage. The event week featured an expo at Coca-Cola Arena, community runs and family-friendly zones, widening appeal beyond elite competition.
Step towards Dubai’s sports
The Burj2Burj Half Marathon’s rise from a local race to a 13,700-runner international event shows Dubai’s strategy to host global sporting spectacles. For athletes, it’s a quick, early chance at a season-defining time. For residents, it’s a major community weekend and a showcase of the city’s skyline.
