Riyadh Marathon
Riyadh’s winter marathon puts a full 42.2K on the Saudi capital’s streets, with cool early hours, open roads, and a fast-growing regional field.
Quick facts
- First official marathon in Saudi Arabia, recognized as a World Athletics Elite Label Road Race.
- Offers a loop course with start and finish near Kingdom Arena, highlighting Riyadh’s cultural landmarks.
- Four race categories: full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 4K family run.
- Features substantial cash prizes and major sponsorships.
About the Riyadh Marathon
The Riyadh Marathon takes runners on a scenic loop through the city, showcasing modern landmarks like the King Abdullah Financial District and historic sites such as Diriyah, all while managing the challenge of Riyadh's hot desert climate.
Course
The looped city course uses broad Riyadh roads around the Kingdom Arena and Boulevard World area. The terrain is generally flat, so temperature change, direct sun, and open-road exposure are the main pacing variables.
Race-day weather
Winter mornings in Riyadh can begin cool and dry before temperatures rise quickly under direct sun. Runners should plan for a wider start-to-finish temperature swing than the low humidity might suggest.
Past Riyadh Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Saturday, January 31, 2026 | — | — |
| 2025 | Saturday, February 8, 2025 | Completed | Open results |
| 2024 | — | Completed | Open results |
Ran this race?
Share your race experience
Your firsthand experience can help future runners understand the course, logistics, and race-day atmosphere. A short report takes about two minutes.
Riyadh Marathon FAQ
When is the Riyadh Marathon?
We're waiting for the finalized date for the 2027 Riyadh Marathon. The most recent running was on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
Is Riyadh Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. Riyadh Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier. To use the result, you must run the certified full-marathon course within the qualifying window and meet the current standard for your age and gender. Meeting the standard lets you apply but does not guarantee entry, and net-downhill courses can receive a time adjustment under current B.A.A. rules. Review the Boston qualifying times and downhill-course rules, or browse upcoming Boston qualifier marathons.
Featured collections
Found an official update?Send race details or links
Send us confirmed dates, registration links, results, live tracking, or course changes. Include the source link so runners can reach the right information.