Riyadh Marathon 2026 Sells Out as Expanded Festival Puts Saudi Fitness Movement on Global Stage

Riyadh is gearing up for a landmark weekend as the fifth Riyadh International Marathon reaches its climax, with all race categories sold out ahead of Saturday’s flagship event. For the first time, the marathon has expanded into a four-day Riyadh Marathon Festival, transforming the capital into a city-wide celebration of sport, health and community.

Hosted by the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) from Jan. 28 to 31, the event blends elite competition with public activities and cultural engagement. Supported by the Ministry of Sport and the Saudi Athletics Federation, the 2026 edition retains its World Athletics Elite Road Race status, reflecting the marathon’s rising international standing.

Speaking exclusively to Saudi Gazette, Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal, President of the Saudi Sports for All Federation, said the marathon embodies the Kingdom’s broader push toward healthier lifestyles and active communities.

“SFA’s mission is to develop and strengthen the community infrastructure, associations, and resources that encourage and support greater physical activity across the Kingdom,” he said.

Prince Khaled credited Saudi Arabia’s leadership for the marathon’s rapid growth since its launch, highlighting the role of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in shaping a nationwide culture of wellness through sport.

“There is no leadership like Saudi leadership,” he said. “The unwavering support of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for transforming society into a health and wellness nation through activity and sport has made the marathon possible today and over the past four years.”

He added that the event has become a powerful platform for showcasing the Kingdom to the world.

“This is the real Saudi Arabia. This is how we show our flag to the world,” he said. “Five years of running and walking Saudi spirit, in the rain, the cold, the sun, and through the streets of Riyadh.”

Prince Khaled also praised the visible involvement of Minister of Sport Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki AlFaisal, noting that consistent leadership engagement has played a key role in elevating the marathon’s profile.

“If you follow sports at all, you have seen our minister on the ground, active and engaged,” he said. “This strong leadership encourages more people across the Kingdom to take part in nationwide wellness.”

The introduction of the Riyadh Marathon Festival marks a major evolution for the event, extending activities across four days and culminating in race day. The festival brings together runners from across Saudi Arabia and around the world, while offering free public access from Jan. 28 to 30 at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University.

The marathon includes four race categories catering to all ages and fitness levels: the 42-kilometre full marathon, the 21-kilometre half marathon for participants aged 18 and above, the 10-kilometre race for those aged 17 and above, and a 5-kilometre fun run designed for families and first-time runners.

All race categories have sold out, underscoring the growing appetite for mass participation sporting events in the Kingdom.

The event is delivered through a wide public-sector partnership involving the Ministry of Sport, the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, the National Events Center, Riyadh Municipality, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh Metro, the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, and the Saudi Tourism Authority.

It is further supported by a broad network of local and international brands spanning sports, health, lifestyle and entertainment, reinforcing the marathon’s role as a cultural and community-driven celebration as Riyadh prepares for race day.