🌍 The Most Iconic Marathons in Africa and the Middle East

Africa and the Middle East play a unique role in marathon running. Africa produces many of the world’s greatest marathon champions, while the Middle East hosts some of the fastest and highest-prize races.

These marathons represent performance, heritage, and global expansion.

🥇 1. Dubai Marathon (UAE)

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Held: January
Participants: ~15,000

Dubai Marathon is one of the fastest marathons in the world.

It has historically offered some of the highest prize money in marathon running, attracting elite runners from Kenya and Ethiopia.

Dubai represents elite performance.

🟦 2. Cape Town Marathon (South Africa)

Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Held: October
Participants: ~18,000

Cape Town Marathon is the most important marathon in Africa.

It is currently a candidate to become a future World Marathon Major.

Cape Town represents Africa’s global rise.

🟦 3. Istanbul Marathon (Turkey)

Location: Istanbul, Turkey
Held: November
Participants: ~25,000

This marathon is unique because runners cross from Asia to Europe during the race.

It is the only intercontinental marathon in the world.

🟦 4. Jerusalem Marathon (Israel)

Location: Jerusalem, Israel
Held: March
Participants: ~10,000

Jerusalem Marathon is known for its historic course through ancient landmarks.

It offers one of the most culturally unique marathon experiences.

🟦 5. Marrakech Marathon (Morocco)

Location: Marrakech, Morocco
Held: January
Participants: ~8,000

This marathon is popular for its warm weather and fast course.

Many international runners come here during winter training season.

Why Africa and the Middle East Matter in Marathon Running

This region is home to:

The world’s fastest runners (Kenya, Ethiopia)
Some of the fastest marathon courses (Dubai)
Rapidly growing global marathon events (Cape Town)

Africa and the Middle East: The Future of Marathon Expansion

As marathon running continues to grow globally, races in Africa and the Middle East are becoming more important.

With elite performance and unique race experiences, this region is shaping the future of marathon running.

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