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There are two types of runners: Those who love to run on a treadmill at a gym and those who prefer to run outdoors to enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful sceneries.

We know that running isn’t for everyone but if you’re looking to switch up your workout routine or if you’re training for one of the many running events in Dubai – here are the best places to run in Dubai..

1. Dubai Autodrome – 2.6km

Head over to Dubai Autodrome every Wednesday from 6pm to 9pm and enjoy an evening run with free entrance. The running track in Dubai Autodrome is suitable for those who want to enjoy a short and sweet 2.6km run with gradual to steep gradients. Since first-time runners always visit every Wednesday, you don’t have to feel pressured to finish fast. This is the best place to run or prepare for the running events in Dubai, and socialize with others to boost your confidence!

2. Al Mamzar Beach – 4km

Located in the outskirts of Dubai towards Sharjah, Al Mamzar Beach offers a 4km running track for those who want to run in less crowded places. Entrance only costs 5 dhs. and you get to experience a relaxing run by the beach. The place is also great for families who want to spend time together after a run. Families can swim, grill, have fun at playgrounds and visit the coffee shops and restaurants by the beach. Training here would be great thanks to its amazing ambience.

3. Burj Park – 5km

Burj park has a 5km running track you can visit with your furry friends and is one of the top pet-friendly places in Dubai. Not only that, you can take cool pictures as you run around the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa. After a run, you can sit back and unwind by watching the famous Dubai fountain or go shopping at Dubai Mall.

4. Dubai Canal – 6.5km

Go for a run at Dubai Canal and be mesmerized by the iconic skyline over the water of the canal. The running track is wide which makes it a lovely spot for running, walking and even biking. There is a waterfall cascading from the bridge under Sheikh Zayed Road and there are many cafes towards business bay. For a more intense running experience, access the five pedestrian bridges to add more kilometres to your workout.

5. Palm Jumeirah Crescent – 11km

The Palm Jumeirah Crescent will have your blood pumping with its 11km running track starting from One and Only The Palm (west side of the Palm) to Rixos The Palm (east side of the Palm). You can also pass by Atlantis The Palm which is one of the most famous hotels in Dubai. If you want to sweat out a little more, you can add 4km by running up and down the trunk of the Palm. This place is also great for those who are preparing for a half marathon, just run back and forth and you’ll be able to enjoy a 22km run.

6. Kite Beach – 14km

For those who are determined to challenge themselves, do an entire lap at Kite Beach to complete a good 14km run. Kite Beach offers one of the best city views in Dubai and a glimpse of the luxurious Burj Al Arab. After your training, this spot is also great for other outdoor activities such as swimming, picnics and kayaking.

Great news! We know you’ve all been waiting for the Mai Dubai City Half Marathon to come back so here it is! It’s official, the Mai Dubai City Half Marathon is confirmed to come back this 30th of October 2022! We know that running a half marathon always require dedication, commitment and preparation. If you’re not a regular marathon runner, here’s our guide to the do’s and don’ts when preparing for a half marathon in Dubai.

#1: Don’t overtrain for the half marathon.

Should you run as fast and as far as you can every day to prepare for the Mai Dubai City Half Marathon? Big no. If you overtrain, you’ll increase the likelihood of becoming drained and injured. Start training months before the Mai Dubai City Half Marathon so you can slowly increase your mileage and duration. Remember, running a half marathon is not just simply running. It’s a combination of running, proper nutrition and strength work. It’s important to listen to your body and set aside some time for rest days to help your body recover.

#2. Don’t change your diet drastically.

Some people think that losing weight before a marathon will make them lighter and run faster. As a result, they cut too many calories and change their diet drastically. That causes a big problem since overdoing your diet will only negatively affect your health and your performance. Plan your meals to ensure that you have a well-balanced diet and don’t forget to treat yourself from time to time.

#3. Don’t skimp on sleep.

Sorry to break it to you but if you aren’t getting enough sleep, you still won’t be able to do your best in the Mai Dubai City Half Marathon no matter how hard you’ve trained for it. We know you’re tired of hearing this but always aim for 7-9 hours of sleep! Why? This is because our body restores itself when we are asleep. Successful athletes prioritize sleep as it aids recovery and not only that, it also rebuilds muscles and cells.

#4. Do consider getting a health check-up.

If you’ve never run a half marathon in Dubai before, schedule a check-up with a doctor. Running a half marathon is no joke. It’s crucial to check if you have no underlying health problems that could jeopardize your overall health. If you have a heart or lung condition, we suggest joining a shorter run instead. The Mai Dubai City Half Marathon also have 5km and 10km races available during the same day.

#5. Do buy new running shoes and outfits.

If you don’t have any running shoes or attire, buy it at least 2 weeks before the Mai Dubai City Half Marathon. This will give you enough time to try and ensure that what you’ll wear during the half marathon is appropriate for running long distances. We also highly advise that never try out any new shoes and clothes during the day of the half marathon race as it may lead to injuries, pain and discomfort.

#6. Do have fun!

It’s easy to compare yourself with other runners and get overwhelmed by all the people during the actual event. Just remember that as long as you have proper preparation, you’ll be alright! We know it can get intimidating to run with others but focus on yourself and enjoy it! Besides, The Mai Dubai City Half Marathon is here to ensure that everyone is having a fun and memorable experience.

Want to join a race event in Dubai this 2022? Check out the best running events in the city below:

Mai Dubai City Half Marathon

The Mai Dubai City Half Marathon is one of the most popular running events in Dubai. The next Mai Dubai City Half Marathon will be held on the 30th of October. Register now. You can also join our 5km and 10km races. To get more details about the next Mai Dubai City Half Marathon event, follow us at @promosevensports on Instagram.

Mai Dubai Community Run

The Mai Dubai Community Run previously called the Skechers Performance Run has 2.5 km, 5km, and 10km races available and it’s a family-friendly event which is great if you want to bring your family with you. The first race of the series will be back on November 12th 2022.

Bloomberg Square Mile Relay

The Bloomberg Square Mile Relay was held in DIFC last 9th of February 2022. The Bloomberg Square Mile Relay is the only corporate race in the world and anyone can enter as a team of 10 for a great team-building activity.

We have exciting news! The Mai Dubai City Half Marathon will be back this 30th of October – If you’re planning to join the Mai Dubai City Half Marathon, you might be thinking ‘how should I start preparing for this event?

Maybe this your first time joining a running event in Dubai? Don’t have any idea how to prepare for a half marathon in Dubai? Relax, don’t worry. Check out our step-by-step guide below and you’ll be just fine.

Step 1: Don’t Overthink.

Have you been googling “how to train for a half marathon for beginners” for the past few days? Stop right there. We know that running a half marathon isn’t easy. It’s literally running 13.1 miles (21.1kilometers) and that’s a lot of running especially if you’re a beginner! Our advice? Instead of stressing over it, just start running! Every run counts as training and that will help you prepare for the half marathon.

Step 2: Follow a Half Marathon Plan for Beginners.

There are thousands of half marathon training schedules for beginners online. Again, don’t overthink it. Have a look through a few plans and choose a half marathon plan that you feel confident to follow. This will make you feel more motivated instead of choosing a plan that’s impossible to follow.

Check this out: Half Marathon Training Plans by Fitbit.

Step 3: Get a Training Buddy.

Yes, you can train alone but it’s also nice to have a running buddy! Invite your friends in the Mai Dubai City Marathon on 30th of October and do your training together. Running a half marathon can be intimidating for beginners, but running with your friends and family will be so much easier and fun.

Step 4: Strength Training

Training for a half marathon shouldn’t be just running every single day. Strength training is also a must! By training at least 2-3x per week you can prevent injuries and improve your running performance.

Step 5: Get a Foam Roller

If you’re doing your training right, there’s a high chance that you’ll experience muscle soreness. Using a foam roller at least 5 minutes a day before or after training can reduce muscle tension and improve flexibility. You know your own body the most, if a foam roller still isn’t enough for your muscle soreness then give yourself a rest day.

Step 6: Enjoy the Process

Preparing for a half marathon shouldn’t make you feel exhausted. You probably signed up for that running event because you want to have fun, so have fun! Everyone is different, if you enjoy dancing then add dance as part of your training, if you enjoy biking then go out there and bike. Stress can negatively affect our bodies, so trust yourself and enjoy the process of preparing for the half marathon.

Want to join a race event in Dubai this 2022? Check out the best running events in the city below: