| The 25th edition of the Dubai Marathon delivered another unforgettable chapter in the history of the Middle East’s fastest marathon, as Nibret Melak and Anchinalu Dessie powered to world-leading performances in front of thousands of spectators lining the flat, lightning-quick course. Under near-perfect racing conditions, the landmark anniversary race once again proved why Dubai is the stage for breakthrough performances. A Debut to Remember Running his very first marathon, Ethiopia’s Nibret Melak stormed to victory in 2:04:00, producing one of the fastest debut performances in race history. His win marked the sixth consecutive men’s title in Dubai claimed by an Ethiopian debutant, further cementing the event’s reputation as the ultimate launchpad for marathon stars. Melak crossed the line visibly emotional before celebrating with training partner and runner-up Yasin Haji (2:05:52), as the two shared a defining moment from a race that was controlled by the leading pack from the early stages. Rwanda’s John Hakizimana finished third in 2:06:04, setting a new national record. “I was very well prepared and it was always my goal to win on my debut,” said Melak, who trains in Addis Ababa alongside Olympic Marathon Champion Tamirat Tola. “My big goal in the future is to break the world record.” In matching the third-fastest time ever recorded on this course and finishing just 26 seconds shy of the course record, Melak announced himself as a major force in global marathon running. |
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| Dramatic Late Twist in the Women’s Race If the men’s race showcased controlled dominance, the women’s race delivered high drama in the closing kilometres. Anchinalu Dessie, a late entry into the race, produced a stunning late surge to claim victory in a personal best of 2:18:31 — the third consecutive marathon win of her career and a world-leading time for 2026. With just over 2km remaining, it appeared that fellow Ethiopian Muliye Dekebo was on course for victory before sudden stomach problems forced her to slow. Dessie seized the opportunity at the 40km mark, powering past to secure the biggest win of her career. Dekebo held on for second in 2:18:43, while Fantu Worku completed an Ethiopian sweep in 2:19:08. “I thought I could still win it in the latter stages of the race,” said the 23-year-old. “It’s nice to run a personal best, but I believe I can run even faster in the future.” Her victory follows previous marathon triumphs in Seville (2:22:17) and Beijing (2:26:08), confirming her rapid rise on the international stage. |
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| 25 Years of Speed The silver anniversary edition attracted 20,000 participants, including a record 4,000 marathon runners, alongside the popular 10km and 4km races that brought vibrant energy to the city streets. At the official ceremony, the elite podium finishers received their medals and trophies from HE Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, marking a fitting conclusion to a milestone celebration of one of the world’s fastest marathon courses. The 2026 Dubai Marathon was supported by ASICS, Dubai Sports Council, MG Motor, Channel 4 Radio Network, ITP Media Group, Bisleri Water, Vitamin Well, Dubai RTA, Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality and Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection by IHG. |
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