Riyadh Marathon 2026 Grows to Over 50,000 Runners

Riyadh Marathon 2026 welcomed more than 50,000 runners this year, a sharp rise from the 10,000 participants recorded in 2022. The event ran from 28 to 31 January at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University in the capital.

The marathon retained its World Athletics Elite Road Race certification for the fifth consecutive year, placing it among the top-tier road races recognised internationally. All race categories for the 2026 edition were sold out.

Runners competed across four official distances: 5 km, 10 km, 21.1 km, and the full 42.195 km marathon. Published entry prices were SAR 62 for the 5 km, SAR 85 for the 10 km, SAR 119 for the 21.1 km, and SAR 149 for the full marathon. Registration was completed online through the official Riyadh Marathon website.

Age requirements varied by distance. The full marathon was open to participants aged 20 and above, the 21.1 km race required runners to be at least 18, and the 10 km race was open to those aged 17 and older. The 5 km race welcomed all ages.

Alongside the races, a public festival ran from 28 to 30 January with free entry, giving families and spectators a chance to take part in the atmosphere. The growing turnout reflects rising interest in community running and fitness across the capital, offering residents and expats another large-scale sporting occasion to enjoy.

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