Dubai: The UAE is set to host the Middle East debut of one of the world’s most iconic relay races, ‘Hood to Coast,’ globally celebrated as ‘The Mother of All Relays.’
The event will take place on January 10, 2026, at the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, supported by the Dubai Sports Council (DSC). It aims to unite citizens, residents, and visitors through endurance, teamwork, and community spirit, promoting an active and inclusive lifestyle.
Originating in Oregon, USA, in 1982, Hood to Coast has evolved into the world’s largest and most recognized relay series, drawing over 80,000 runners annually. Following successful editions in China and Europe, Dubai now joins the global Hood to Coast family, underscoring its status as a city of innovation, diversity, and community connection.
Teams of three to five runners, supported by a 4×4 vehicle, will cover a 100 km+ route across Dubai’s desert landscape, celebrating teamwork and friendship. The route passes through nature reserves, lakes, and sand dunes, showcasing Dubai’s natural beauty and endurance spirit.
Journey through Dubai
The relay will guide participants through Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve, highlighting Dubai’s dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Runners will traverse Flamingo Lake, Al Qudra Lake, and the vast golden dunes, pass the Dubai Solar Park, and finish amid breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
Along the route, participants may spot Dubai’s diverse wildlife, including Reem and Demani gazelles, Maha the Arabian Oryx, and the Ghaf tree, the UAE’s national symbol of resilience and coexistence.
Hood to Coast Dubai aligns with the UAE National Sports Strategy 2031, which promotes widespread sports participation and lifelong physical activity. It also supports Dubai Social Agenda 33 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, emphasizing public health, well-being, and positioning Dubai among the world’s leading cities for living, working, and recreation.
“Dubai’s readiness to host world-class sporting events reflects the competence of our national talents and the city’s continuous progress across all sectors in line with international standards,” said Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council.
The event also coincides with the UAE’s Year of Community 2025, reinforcing inclusivity and social connection. It is designed to bring together people of all ages, nationalities, and backgrounds to celebrate unity, friendship, and shared experiences.
The race is expected to significantly boost sports tourism, attracting athletes and spectators from around the region and beyond. It will:
- Enhance hotel occupancy and stimulate spending across hospitality, retail, and F&B sectors.
- Generate employment in event logistics and operations.
- Strengthen Dubai’s reputation as a sustainable, community-driven sports destination.
- Encourage repeat visits through tourism packages and immersive cultural experiences.
Hood to Coast Dubai is presented by XDubai as Title Sponsor, with Al Salam Championship as Strategic Partner. The event is organized by PACEX Sports Group, supported by Nizzami Events Management, and endorsed by the Dubai Sports Council. These partners aim to establish the relay as a flagship event on Dubai’s annual sports tourism calendar.
Event details at a glance
- Date: January 10, 2026
- Location: Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai, UAE
- Distance: 100 km Relay
- Team Format: 3–5 runners + 1 4×4 vehicle
- Route Highlights: Flamingo Lake, Al Qudra Lake, Sand Dunes, Dubai Solar Park, Al Marmoom Reserve
- Natural Heritage: Reem gazelle, Demani, Arabian Oryx, Ghaf tree
- Categories: Running Clubs, Corporate, Community, International (USA & China), Friends & Families
- Registration Opens: October 24, 2025
- Early Bird: October 24–31, 2025
- Final Rush Entry: December 5, 2025
- Deadline: December 10, 2025
Runners are invited to form teams, prepare their 4x4s, and join one of Dubai’s most exciting sporting events of 2026, a celebration of endurance, friendship, and the spirit of community across the city’s stunning natural landscapes.
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