The Abu Dhabi Sports Council has partnered with ADNOC to launch the first ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon, which will take place this December 7.

A three-year partnership agreement ensures ADNOC have naming rights for the race until at least 2020, with the news confirmed at an official contract signing in the UAE capital by H.E. Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and Omar Suwaina Al Suwaidi, Executive Office Director at ADNOC.

Major General Mohammed Khalfan Al Rumaithy, Chairman of General Authority for Sports, said the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon is the latest addition to the ever-growing list of international sporting events to arrive in Abu Dhabi.

The first ADNOC Abu Dhabi marathon will take place on December 7

“It may be the first of its kind in Abu Dhabi, but it will be second to none among established international marathons around the world,” Al Rumaithy said. “We expect a world-class elite field and participation of thousands of runners at various levels.”

Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development, praised the efforts of all those involved in bringing the first marathon race to Abu Dhabi.

“The races are open for all categories and provides the opportunity for community participation. The ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon is an event that the entire family can appreciate, not only by participating in the races but by enjoying the various side events at the Marathon Village,” Al Khaili said.

At the signing ceremony, H.E. Aref Al Awani said: “The ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon adds a new international sporting event to our calendar of events and will leave behind a legacy that the Abu Dhabi Sports Council is very keen to promote as part of our community sports programming.”

H.E. Aref Al Awani claims the marathon will leave a legacy behind.

The race will be held over a 42.195-kilometer (26 miles, 385 yards) course that will showcase the city of Abu Dhabi to a global audience.

In recognition of the Year of Zayed, the race will bring together elite international athletes, seasoned amateur runners and thousands of people taking part in their first marathon.

It will offer runners of all abilities the chance to participate in a range of events from 2.5km and 5km fun runs, to the 10km and full-distance marathon.

Omar Suwaina Al Suwaidi, Executive Office Director at ADNOC, said: “ADNOC is excited to play a part in bringing such an iconic event, the marathon, to Abu Dhabi.

“Our partnership with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council is built on a shared commitment to elevating the health and well-being of individuals and embodies ADNOC’s historical dedication to supporting the communities in which we operate.

“Whether it’s through sporting and recreation, health and wellness, or youth and STEM education, ADNOC’s corporate social responsibility and purpose remain firm: To create a positive and lasting impact on UAE society.”

Entry fees for the event range from AED 50-75 for the shorter 2.5km and 5km fun runs, AED 150 for the 10km, and AED 350 for the marathon race. Registration for the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon is open at: www.adnocabudhabimarathon.com.