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Dubai is set to host the Tower to Tower Run on Saturday morning, bringing together more than 13,700 runners from the UAE and abroad for one of the region’s premier international road races. Organized by Worlds Iconic with support from the Dubai Sports Council, the Tower to Tower Run features a main half-marathon race covering 21 kilometers through the city’s most iconic landmarks. The event is scheduled to begin at 6:30 a.m. from Emirates Towers and finish at Jumeirah Park.
According to the organizers, participants will race along a route that showcases Dubai’s distinctive urban landscape, passing landmarks including the Museum of the Future, Burj Khalifa, and Burj Al Arab. The race combines athletic challenge with the unique architectural character of the city, while drawing significant community engagement and spectator support along the course.
Elite Athletes Highlight Tower to Tower Run Competition
This year’s race features several world-class elite runners competing for top honors. Leading the men’s field is Ugandan runner Joshua Cheptegei, a double Olympic gold medalist in the 5,000-meter and 10,000-meter events and three-time world champion in the 10-kilometer race. Cheptegei holds a personal best of 59:21 minutes in the half marathon distance.
Additionally, the competition includes Alphonce Simbu, the 2025 world marathon champion and Boston Marathon runner-up, alongside German athlete Richard Ringer, the 2022 European champion. The elite field is expected to deliver fierce competition at the front of the race.
Women’s Field Features World Champions
The women’s race showcases equally impressive talent, led by Kenya’s Irene Cheptai, the world cross-country champion and 2024 Chicago Marathon bronze medalist. Jacqueline Chepngeno, winner of the 2025 Rotterdam Marathon, will also compete, along with British runner Alexandra Bell, an Olympic finalist and two-time European cross-country champion.
Meanwhile, the event has secured comprehensive support from multiple government entities to ensure smooth operations. Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, and the Roads and Transport Authority are coordinating integrated operational plans covering first aid services, support stations, and security coverage to guarantee the highest safety standards for participants.
Substantial Prize Money Attracts International Field
The race organizers have allocated significant financial prizes for winners across various categories. According to the prize structure, the top ten finishers in the elite men’s and women’s divisions will receive awards starting at 40,000 dirhams for first place, 20,000 dirhams for second, and 16,000 dirhams for third, extending through the tenth position.
However, the prize pool extends beyond the podium positions. Additional bonuses will be awarded to the fastest runner who breaks the 60-minute barrier, while special prizes have been designated for Emirati runners and various age group categories to promote competitive racing at all levels.
Route Showcases Dubai’s Iconic Architecture
The 21-kilometer course has been designed to highlight Dubai’s transformation into a global metropolis while providing an engaging racing environment. Runners will experience the city’s blend of modern architecture and urban planning as they traverse from Emirates Towers through the downtown district to the coastal finish at Jumeirah Park.
In contrast to typical road races, the Tower to Tower Run emphasizes the integration of athletic competition with Dubai’s tourism appeal, creating opportunities for both sporting excellence and civic celebration. The route’s passage by major landmarks reinforces Dubai’s position as a destination for international sporting events.
With elite athletes confirmed and operational preparations finalized, race organizers anticipate Saturday’s event will proceed as scheduled, weather permitting. The competition outcome and any potential course records will be determined following the morning race, with results expected to be announced shortly after the final finishers cross the line at Jumeirah Park.
