Run for glory at the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon 2024
It’s time to dust off those running shoes and gear up for the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon 2024! The 6th edition of this popular event is all set to take place on 14th December 2024. Whether you’re a novice or a pro-runner, register for a category that suits your fitness standards and skills. Our guide has all the details about this extraordinary race.
ALL ABOUT THE ADNOC ABU DHABI MARATHON
The ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon is organised by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and is expected to be one of the most significant events this year. Prospective racers will be happy to know that children and seniors can participate in the race’s sixth edition.
The marathon isn’t just about winning; it is also a community-based activity and a chance for people to get together with loved ones for fun. ADNOC Marathon 2024 is a lighthearted “fun race for those who just want a good time.”
If you have already registered for the ADNOC Marathon Abu Dhabi, you’ll soon receive your event t-shirts and a race kit. The kit includes a timing tag, bibs and other items.
TYPES OF RACES
ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon includes five races. Here is all the information about the races and their entry fee.
MARATHON
The marathon will run through the heart of the capital. As the crowd cheers you on, you will run for 42.195 km alongside major landmarks. The marathon and relay start line is King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street behind ADNOC HQ Tower. The finish point will be the ADNOC HQ South Plaza.
Differently-abled individuals can also take part in the wheelchair race category.
- Entry fee: AED 370 (Excluding VAT)
- Start time: 06:00 a.m.
MARATHON RELAY TEAMS OF 2
The marathon relay teams of 2 will compete this year at the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon. Groups of two can run and cover a considerable distance. In fact, the first runner has to complete 22 km, while the second runner will run for about 20 km.
- Entry fee: AED 580 (Excluding VAT)
- Start time: 06:00 a.m.
10 KM ROAD RACE
This category is for both recreational and short-distance runners. Cover 10 km of the Abu Dhabi Corniche while enjoying the cool weather. The race will start opposite the Al Majlis Street parking lot in front of Nation Towers on the Corniche and end on King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street.
Differently-abled individuals can also take part in the wheelchair race category.
- Entry fee: AED 160 (Excluding VAT)
- Start time: 06:30 a.m.
5KM ROAD RACE
This one is a good option for those up for a shorter race. It will get you back in the groove to start your regular fitness activities. It has the same start and finish point as the 10km race.
- Entry fee: AED 80 (Excluding VAT)
- Start time: 09:30 a.m.
2.5KM FUN RUN
This race in the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon attracts the largest crowds. Run, walk or jog around the emirate with other runners for company. The event isn’t timed. So, there aren’t any losers – just winners!
- Entry Fee: AED 55 (Excluding VAT)
- Start time: 08:45 a.m.
ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon registration has already started. For more details and information, visit the official website.
TRAINING SESSIONS
ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon officials organise different training programmes and workout sessions. Participants can train under expert coaches to prepare for the final race.
If you’re eager for the 5th edition of the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon, the sponsors have introduced a 3-part Race Series. This series will be held from September to November to assist participants in preparing for the main event on December 14, 2024.
Additionally, there will be long runs in groups every Saturday at the following locations:
- Al Bateen Beach Parking, Abu Dhabi – 05:00 am
- Tawyywa, Al Ain – 05:30 am
- Marabiaa, Al Dhafra – 06:00 am
- Umm Suqeim Beach, Dubai – 06:00 am
THE ROUTE
One of the main aims of the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon 2024 is to introduce the UAE capital to the world, mainly the iconic landmarks around which the route is designed.
The Abu Dhabi Marathon 2024 is expected to follow the same route as the 5th edition. The marathon will start at the ADNOC HQ, with direct views of the Founder’s Memorial. The participants will then pass by the Capital Gate, Zayed Sports City and will complete 20 km near the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
The marathon participants will run along the Corniche, work around Qasr Al Hosn, pass by Emirates Heritage Village, and finally reach the finish line at ADNOC Tower.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPANTS
Anyone between the ages of 6 and 70 can register for the marathon, so this can indeed be a fun activity for all.
The ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon follows the guidelines of the National Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) and Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC). The focus is on ensuring the safety of all participants and organisers.
FAQs About the Abu Dhabi Marathon
What is the prize money for the Abu Dhabi Marathon 2024?
The official website has not announced the Abu Dhabi Marathon 2024 prize money. However, last year the prize fund was $303,000. We’ll update the section as soon as the prize for this year is decided.
IS THERE A CUT-OFF POINT FOR THE MARATHON?
There is an official six-hour finish time. Participants wishing to continue and finish the race must do so on footpaths.
WILL THERE BE DOPE TESTING?
Those who take part in timed races will be tested. Anyone who fails a drug test will not be entitled to the prize money.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR THE MARATHON?
Marathons test your physical strength. So it would be best if you prepared for the race in advance. This includes physical training, eating right, cardiac screening and regular running practice.
Please consult your doctor if you have a medical condition before registering for the event.*
CAN DIFFERENTLY-ABLED PERSONS PARTICIPATE IN THE RACE?
The ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon caters to all fitness levels, from seasoned marathoners to casual runners. With races ranging from a 2.5km fun run to a full 42.2km marathon, there’s something for everyone, including wheelchair athletes and people of determination.
To participate in the Paralympics or Special Olympics, athletes must:
- Meet the eligibility criteria for their respective division and distance.
- Register online for free using the code “WERUN24” and agree to the terms and conditions.
- Special Olympics participants can register for the 2.5km distance.
- Paralympic participants can register for all distances, but a prior medical check is required for distances exceeding 5km.
This concludes our guide to the 2024 ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon. The event holds great cultural significance in promoting the capital to the rest of the world. It also helps increase awareness about health and fitness amongst the country’s residents.
To prepare for the event, you can join any of the top gyms in Abu Dhabi. Female participants can find dedicated ladies’ gyms in Abu Dhabi. Alternatively, you can build stamina on the excellent jogging tracks in Abu Dhabi.
Regardless of the final result, running a marathon is a matter of personal pride and will give you a sense of achievement. Will this be the year for you?
Title Image Credit: ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon official website.