Muscat Marathon Sets New Participation Record with Over 15,000 Runners

Record-Breaking Participation at the 12th Muscat Marathon

Muscat: The 12th edition of the Discover Oman Muscat Marathon set a new participation record today, attracting more than 15,000 runners representing 94 nationalities over two consecutive days.

As part of the ongoing development of the event, this year’s edition was held at Al Khuwair Square, within a vision aimed at diversifying hosting locations and enriching the experience of participants and spectators. The marathon witnessed the participation of elite professional athletes, amateur runners, families and first-time participants across various race categories, including the full marathon, half marathon, 10km and 5km races, the fun run, and children’s races.

Commenting on the event, His Excellency Azzan bin Qasim Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, said that the success of the Discover Oman Muscat Marathon reflects the effective integration and strategic partnerships led by the Ministry with relevant entities, enhancing the Sultanate of Oman’s position as a leading destination for hosting international sporting events, particularly in sports and adventure tourism.

He added that the growing international participation in the 2026 edition highlights the role of such events in supporting tourism sector growth, strengthening global presence, achieving sustainable economic impact, and showcasing authentic Omani culture and hospitality, in addition to demonstrating Oman’s high organizational readiness in line with international standards.

The main race categories witnessed strong competition and outstanding performances. In the marathon (42.2 km) men’s category, Victor Kwembwe claimed first place with a time of 2:15:08, followed by Tamam Abdullah (2:15:27) and Abebe Shimeles (2:15:47). Sami Al-Muqbali recorded the best time among Omani runners. In the women’s category, Yeniabeba Ejigo won first place with a time of 2:38:34, followed by Koli Chimdesa (2:38:35) and Lamlam Abebe (2:39:35), while Najma Al-Rahbi achieved first place among Omani female runners.

In the half marathon (21.1 km) men’s category, Emil Danielson topped the standings with a time of 1:02:54, followed by Abdulmajid Ahmed (1:03:19) and Janahon Henok (1:03:20). Jihad Al-Mahrami recorded the best result among Omani runners. In the women’s category, Ijega Selinat won the title with 1:10:32, followed by Almaz Samuel (1:10:35) and Deborah Samum (1:12:42), while Omaima Harb achieved the best result among Omani participants.

In the 10km race, Naaman Al-Asawi claimed first place in the men’s category with a time of 30:44, followed by Amin Suwaida (30:45) and Majid Al-Jahdhami (32:07), while Mahmoud Al-Jashmi recorded the best time among Omani runners. In the women’s category, Agnieszka Osmolek secured first place with 40:51, followed by Khulood Al-Saadi (43:56) and Zahra Al-Jashmi, with Khulood Al-Saadi recorded as the fastest Omani runner.

The redesigned race routes highlighted Muscat’s most prominent landmarks, offering participants a unique experience that combined sporting challenge with a distinctive destination narrative. Over the two days, the event extended beyond competition to deliver a comprehensive festive atmosphere through a vibrant race village, sponsor activities, community initiatives and live entertainment.

The growing international interest reflects the continued rise in the global profile of the Discover Oman Muscat Marathon, in line with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism’s efforts to position the Sultanate of Oman as a leading destination for sports tourism and international events.

The event was organized by Sabco Sports, in cooperation with government entities, sponsors and partners, in accordance with the highest international standards, with a strong focus on safety, operational excellence and participant experience.