Trail running in the UAE took a major leap this year as more than 350 international runners braved the challenging mountains of Ras Al Khaimah for the country’s first dedicated trail race. Starting at Wadi Ghalilah Dam on Jebel Jais, the G.O.A.T race offered grueling 50km and 30km routes, with elevations reaching up to 3,300 meters.
Dana Matar, co-founder of Peak Sports and race organizer, said in a Khaleej Times report the course set a new standard in the region for technical difficulty and elevation, surprising even seasoned athletes, including the top male and female finishers from Russia.
Once a niche sport, trail running has gained worldwide popularity, with over 20 million registered trail runners. The UAE has embraced this trend, attracting athletes away from city streets to rocky terrains, desert paths, and mountain landscapes. Inspired by this shift, Matar established Peak Sports in 2022, specializing in international-standard trail races and cultivating a thriving community of outdoor enthusiasts.
The company’s event lineup has expanded to include the Al Qudra Trail Race during Ramadan and a 12-hour endurance race, "Last 1 Standing," scheduled for Hatta next month. Cooler weather in the UAE draws even more participants to trail clubs and races across the country, making it easier for new and seasoned runners alike to get involved. Notably, Trail Runners DXB has grown to over 1,000 members, making it one of the largest trail running communities in the GCC.
The UAE’s unique landscapes, from desert dunes to mountainous trails, are increasingly attracting global endurance athletes. Local favorites include Wadi Shawka’s "Mother Hump" trail and Wadi Naqab’s jeep track. Government bodies like Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and Dubai Sports Council are also bolstering the sport, improving trail safety and access, and hosting events. Last year, Dubai Municipality opened a 9.7km trail in Mushrif National Park, now a popular training ground for athletes.
With its diverse terrain and growing community, the UAE is fast becoming a premier destination for trail runners worldwide.
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