The most interesting aspect of the Dubai Desert Road Run is that participants both serious and not, have plenty of time to prepare for it as it is held six times a year. The entire city preps for the event with UAE hotels such as the Middle East hotels offering great deals on hotel stays during festivals and local events. The really serious can improve their timing considerably each time as it is run on the same course, while for the others it is a social occasion where they can meet people with similar interests. It features a 10 km race for adults and those over 14 years of age, a 3 km junior race for ages 6 to 18 and an untimed 3 km Fun Run. All participants who complete the race are awarded medals of accomplishment. The 10 km winners in each age category receive trophies and there are awards for the first three male and female finishers of the 3 km Fun Run. The event starts off at 7.30 am from the Sevens Stadium and comprise of two laps on a traffic free undulating course. Water stations are located at the 1.5 km, 2.5 km, 3 km, 5 km, 6.5 km, 7.5 km, 8.5 km and at the finish. Medical support is available at the start and finish.
Although the course and the conditions appear to be easy the run during the scorching summer months is not to be taken lightly. Only the hardy and well prepared should participate in the run in the months of April and June. June particularly is known for temperatures over 39 degrees C, no rainfall and extreme levels of humidity. The temperatures remain uncomfortable well into the night. However in addition to the run June is also the month when many sporting events take place in Dubai both indoors and outdoors.
The run is popular with both locals and expatriates in Dubai and several participants are regulars of the Desert Run. Many men, women and young people also see it as a challenge and as such the Desert Run has always seen a large turnout of participants. An easy mode of registration allows anyone who is fit and confident to take part. The Dubai Desert Run is a good way to start and train for a running career.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.