The first ever Mai Dubai City Half Marathon is around the corner and organisers of the event are excited to announce a new race category added to the already popular event.

The 2.5km community run will take place on Friday 25^th October at 9.30am following the 5km, 10km and half marathon in the heart of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) – the official venue partner. There will be plenty of excitement at the event with an appearance from fitness star, Joe Wicks, also known as The Body Coach who will flag off the 2.5km community run and compete in the half marathon.

As one of the major events during the Dubai Fitness Challenge starting on Friday October 18 to Saturday November 16 throughout Dubai, the 2.5km category is aimed at encouraging individuals who are new to running to enjoy their own ‘marathon experience’ without any time constraint and solely for the purpose of being healthy and having some fun.

Adding to that excitement, a musical band will keep runners entertained in the Gate Avenue in DIFC, along with delicious treats from several food and beverage outlets such as London Dairy Bistro, Keventers and Pret A Manger – all free of charge. Free yoga sessions will be on offer for runners and their friends and family as well as fun workshops for the kids to ensure everyone enjoys the fun-filled atmosphere in the Gate Avenue.

Endorsed by the Dubai Sports Council, the International Association of Athletics Federations measured courses will begin in front of The Gate Building in DIFC and feature breathtaking views of the city’s iconic skyline. The entire event (21km, 10km, 5km & 2.5km) is the first of its kind in Dubai, offering participants spectacular sights of downtown Dubai including views of the Burj Khalifa, Emirates Towers and the groundbreaking architecture of the newly constructed Museum of the Future.

Peyman Al Awadhi, Senior Vice President – Official Spokesperson at DIFC Authority said: “We are delighted to be part of the City Half Marathon as an official venue partner and introduce the DIFC as a state-of-the-art venue to deliver unforgettable experiences for its first ever race.

“Thousands of runners will get the unique chance to race through a global top 10 financial centre and visitors will experience the unrivalled infrastructure and world-class facilities the DIFC has to offer.

“We encourage Dubai’s athletes and fitness enthusiasts to participate and look forward to welcoming thousands of visitors to this spectacular event at the DIFC, highlighting that we are not only built for business but we are also a top lifestyle destination in Dubai.”

As the official title partners of the City Half Marathon, Mai Dubai will be having water stations at the start and finish line for all participants.

Mr. Alexander van ‘t Riet, the CEO of Mai Dubai Bottled Drinking Water said: “As one of the leading bottled drinking water companies in the UAE and in the region we’re delighted to be the title partner for the first ever City Half Marathon in Dubai – a key milestone for us. We’re looking forward to seeing runners from Dubai and beyond take on their own personal challenge as we provide an environment for them to keep fit and healthy with Mai Dubai.”

Registration for all categories is still open, however places are filling up fast, and organizers are encouraging everyone not to delay in securing their place as slots are limited.

Complimentary parking is available for all participants, as well as those who want to come and support the runners! Everyone is welcome to stay after the race and experience the sights and sounds DIFC will offer in the lively Gate Avenue with plenty of activities for the entire family.

All finishers (21km, 10km, & 5km) will receive a Mai Dubai City Half Marathon t-shirt, and a participation medal.

Categories, fees and times:

Distance	Age Categories	Fee		Time
2.5km	0-99 years	0-6 years	FREE	9:30 am
		7-15 years	AED 40
		16-99+	AED 80
5km	16-19, 20-29 30-39, 40-49 50-59, 60+	AED 130		6:15am
10km	16-19, 20-29 30-39, 40-49 50-59, 60+	AED 180		6:21 am
21km	16-19, 20-29 30-39, 40-49 50-59, 60+	AED 285		6:27 am

To register for tickets or for more information on the City Half Marathon, please visit: www.cityhalfmarathon.com