Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

If you are planning to run, cheer or simply move around the city this Sunday, set your alarm earlier because the Dubai Metro will, too. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced extended operating hours for the Dubai Metro on Sunday (February 1), to support participants and spectators of the Dubai Marathon 2026. Both the Red Line and Green Line will run from 5am until midnight, instead of the usual Sunday schedule of 8am to midnight. That gives commuters three extra hours of early-morning service. The change is designed to make travel smoother on one of Dubai’s biggest sporting events of the year. The Dubai Marathon will take place on Sunday morning, with races starting at 7am. The annual event attracts thousands of runners from the UAE and abroad. Participants can choose from three race categories: a 42km full marathon, a 10km road race, and a 4km fun run. The marathon route runs through Umm Suqeim, starting opposite Madinat Jumeirah and offering runners scenic views of the Burj Al Arab. The event has become a staple in Dubai’s sporting calendar, bringing together elite athletes, amateur runners and families for a community-focused day of fitness. In its announcement, RTA confirmed the extended hours aim to make journeys “easier and smoother on run day.” Residents should also expect temporary road closures and diversions in parts of Umm Suqeim to ensure the race runs safely. While official closure details are yet to be fully released, sections of Umm Suqeim Street are likely to face restrictions based on previous years. ICA/Expat Media
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