The Riyadh Marathon, Saudi Arabia’s premier long-distance running event, will return as the centerpiece of a four-day festival taking place from 28 to 31 January in the capital city.
Launched in 2022 as the Kingdom’s first official full marathon, the event has quickly grown into one of Saudi Arabia’s most significant athletic and community gatherings, attracting thousands of runners of all levels from across the country and around the world.
Organized by the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) with support from the Ministry of Sport and the Saudi Arabian Athletic Federation, the marathon continues to expand in scale.
This year’s edition will once again bring together participants, families, and spectators through a packed festival program, offering entertainment, activities, and health-focused initiatives leading up to race day.
The event will begin in Riyadh, starting from Mayadeen in Diriyah, and will offer four race categories catering to different fitness levels: a full marathon (42.2 kilometers) for seasoned runners, a half marathon (21.1 kilometers), a 10 kilometers run, and a 5 kilometers fun run suitable for families and beginners.
The Riyadh Marathon is certified as a World Athletics Elite Road Race, ensuring that it meets international standards for elite competition and organization.
The community atmosphere surrounding the marathon enhances the experience, with entertainment, music, and food trucks enhancing the marathon village, making it a festive occasion for participants and spectators alike.
Since its inception, the Riyadh Marathon has experienced impressive growth, with over 40,000 participants recorded in the 2025 edition.
The event’s evolution highlights its capacity to attract a diverse range of runners, from local enthusiasts to international elite athletes. Beyond promoting athleticism, the marathon aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to enhance public health and quality of life in the Kingdom
Comments (0)