The Business Behind Dubai’s Growing Running Scene

Dubai’s Burj2Burj half-marathon returns on 24 January 2027, with a route taking runners past some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, from Burj Khalifa to Burj Al Arab. Participation has grown from 4,000 runners to more than 16,000 in 2026, reflecting the growing popularity of mass-participation sports in the UAE. 

We speak to Warrick Mac Nicol, Founder of Burj2Burj, about building the event, the business of sports tourism and running’s growing role in Dubai’s economy.