MGE Events, working in partnership with Experience Oman, has announced the first edition of the Dhofar Marathon. The announcement was made during a press conference held at Anantara Al Baleed Resort Salalah on 16 December. The event will run under the theme “Dhofar Moves, A Generation Growths”.
The organisers describe Dhofar as entering a new phase, where sport plays a wider role beyond leisure. Running and community activity are being used to support health, confidence, and social connection. This wider movement has already engaged more than 10,000 children and many adults, helping shape a stronger culture of wellbeing across the region.
The Dhofar Marathon is scheduled to take place in November 2026. The event will be hosted in partnership with Anantara Al Baleed Resort Salalah, located between the Arabian Sea and the UNESCO-listed Al Baleed archaeological site. The setting has been chosen to reflect both the natural and cultural character of Salalah.
The marathon will offer several race formats to suit different abilities. Runners may enter as individuals over the full 42km distance, as a relay team of two runners completing 21km each, or as a team of four covering 10.5km per runner. The route will pass through local communities, coastal areas, hills, and valleys, reflecting the varied landscape of Dhofar and encouraging participation at all levels.
Mohammed Obaidanai, founder and CEO of MGE group commented:
“This is more than a race. It is a call to move, to grow, and unite. What started as a small idea has now become a catalyst for transformation across Dhofar, proving that sports can shift culture, open infinite doors, and change lives for generations to come.”
As planning continues, the Dhofar Marathon is gaining national and regional interest. Organisers see the event as part of Salalah’s development as a destination for sports tourism, while supporting the goals of Oman Vision 2040 around active living, youth participation, and economic diversity.