Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon is set to return for its 18th edition on Saturday, February 1, 2025, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.
The event will feature four races staged on Al Marjan Island, attracting both community runners and international elites.
Hosted by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon has become a beloved fixture in the global running community.
This year’s event will include the signature 21.1km half marathon race, as well as 10km, 5km, and 2km runs, catering to athletes of all ages and abilities.
“We are excited to announce the return of one of the most highly anticipated global sporting events in the Nature Emirate for the 18th year,” said Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of RAKTDA.
“The race never fails to produce world-class champions, and we look forward once again to welcoming back an incredible line-up of elite athletes, sporting enthusiasts, and tourists from across the globe.”
With the registration process now open, runners can take advantage of the event’s early registration promotion to secure their places on the start line and enjoy special entry fees until September 30.
The early registration fee for the Half Marathon is USD 50 (AED 185), with the 10km, 5km, and 2km Road Races costing USD 30 (AED 110), USD 20 (AED 74), and USD 10 (AED 37) respectively.
“With six months to go, we are pleased to be able to launch an early registration promotion for those runners who want to secure their places in the race of their choice,” said Peter Connerton, Managing Director of Pace Events and Race Director of the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon.
“The running community will have over three months to take advantage of the Early Registration Promotion before prices revert on October 1, and we look forward to welcoming early registrations from regular runners as well as from those keen to test themselves for the first time on the fast and flat roads of Al Marjan Island.”
In February 2024, Kenya’s Daniel Mateiko and Ethiopia’s Tsigie Gebreselama claimed the men’s and women’s titles in the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon.
Mateiko, making his third appearance in Ras Al Khaimah, secured victory in a time of 58:45, finishing five seconds ahead of compatriot John Korir, with fellow Kenyan Isaia Lasoi in third.
In the women’s 21.1km race, Gebreselama shattered her personal best by over 30 seconds, winning in 65:14, ahead of 2020 champion Ababel Yeshaneh, also from Ethiopia, while Tanzania’s Jacklin Sakilu took a surprise third place, beating her personal best by more than three minutes.
With the stage set for another thrilling edition, the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon promises to deliver yet another day of outstanding athletic performances and community spirit.