What To Know
- Dubai is preparing for a full city reset this Sunday, February 8, 2026, as the Burj2Burj Half Marathon returns with a sold-out field and a citywide traffic plan already in effect.
- With full registration, confirmed road closures, elite-level competition, and a certified course, the Burj2Burj Half Marathon places Dubai at the center of the global road racing calendar this weekend.
- The finish line is located at Sunset Beach, adjacent to the Burj Al Arab, where organizers have set up the official post-race area.
Dubai is preparing for a full city reset this Sunday, February 8, 2026, as the Burj2Burj Half Marathon returns with a sold-out field and a citywide traffic plan already in effect. The race holds a World Athletics Elite Label status and begins at 6:30 AM, placing it among the most high-profile road running events on the regional calendar.
With no race-day bib pickup allowed, participation required advance registration and prior collection at the official expo held at the Coca-Cola Arena. Entry is closed, and organizers have confirmed that no additional slots are available.
The Route That Takes Over The City
The Burj2Burj Half Marathon follows a point-to-point course set through some of Dubai’s most recognized locations. The race start is positioned near the Museum of the Future, placing runners immediately within a central district known for heavy weekday traffic. From there, the route continues through Downtown Dubai, passing the Burj Khalifa, and proceeds toward the Canal Bridge during early morning hours. The finish line is located at Sunset Beach, adjacent to the Burj Al Arab, where organizers have set up the official post-race area. The course layout has been designed to meet World Athletics certification standards, with controlled access and security supervision throughout the morning.
Traffic Closures And City Advisory
Road closures connected to the event will be active from 5:30 AM until approximately 10:30 AM. Authorities have confirmed that Jumeirah Beach Road will be fully closed southbound after the Canal Bridge. Al Mustaqbal Street will also be inaccessible during race hours. Additional restrictions apply near the finish zone on Al Dharmeet Street. Vehicles parked without authorization in this area will be removed by towing services. Residential districts including Al Manara and Umm Al Sheif will operate under controlled access, with checkpoints in place for residents only. Motorists have been advised to plan alternative routes or delay travel during the morning period.
Prize Structure And Elite Competition
The Burj2Burj Half Marathon carries prize awards equivalent to gold-label road races. Winners will receive StoneX 100 Year Silver Coins as part of the official prize structure. Performance bonuses have been confirmed for elite female athletes completing the course under a defined time threshold, as outlined in the event regulations. The race has attracted a competitive international field, with pacing groups and technical officials assigned according to World Athletics standards.
Sustainability And Finish Line Programming
Event organizers have confirmed a strict limited single-use plastic policy for race day. Water distribution and waste handling follow sustainability guidelines issued in advance to all participants. Following completion, runners will enter the designated Finisher’s Village located near the beach venue.
The area includes recovery services, entertainment programming, and official medal distribution. With full registration, confirmed road closures, elite-level competition, and a certified course, the Burj2Burj Half Marathon places Dubai at the center of the global road racing calendar this weekend.
Residents and visitors are advised to plan ahead, stay informed, and expect a city operating on a modified schedule throughout Sunday morning.
