Riyadh Marathon 2026 Draws Sold-Out Crowd

Thousands of runners took to the streets of the capital as Riyadh Marathon 2026 was held on 31 January 2026 at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University in Riyadh, with every race category selling out ahead of the event.

Participants chose from four distances: a 5 km race open to all ages, a 10 km race for ages 17 and above, a 21 km half marathon for ages 18 and above, and the full 42.195 km marathon for ages 20 and above. Entry fees ranged from SAR 62 for the 5 km up to SAR 149 for the full marathon, with the 10 km priced at SAR 85 and the 21 km at SAR 119.

Registration was completed entirely online through the official Riyadh Marathon platform, with each runner receiving an email confirmation and a QR code for race-day entry. No government service was required to sign up.

A festival before the finish line

In the lead-up to race day, the Riyadh Marathon Festival ran from 28 to 30 January 2026 at the same venue, with free entry for visitors. The festival offered families and fitness enthusiasts a chance to gather, explore activities, and build excitement before the main event.

Beyond the competition, the marathon was designed to encourage physical activity, healthier lifestyles, and social interaction. With all categories sold out, the strong turnout reflects a growing appetite for community sport in Riyadh and the capital's expanding calendar of public fitness events.

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