The Riyadh Marathon: Driving physical activity and development in the MENA region

A notable initiative reflecting this shift is the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA), which actively engages local communities to boost physical activity across the nation. Among its achievements is the Riyadh Marathon event, symbolizing this transformation by raising awareness about physical fitness and strengthening social bonds. By hosting marathons that attract participants from across the MENA region, Saudi Arabia not only enhances its own sporting culture but also fosters regional development, providing marathon runners with another opportunity to engage in a vibrant community of fitness and competition.

The Rapid Growth of Marathons in Saudi Arabia

In 2022, Saudi Arabia hosted its first marathon, marking a commitment to promoting sports as a societal norm. The event drew 10,000 participants, including runners from around the world and local residents, celebrating this historic occasion. The success continued in 2023, with participants increasing to 15,000, and by 2024, the number reached 20,000 participants. This rapid growth reflects the rising enthusiasm for sports and physical activity in the Kingdom.
 

Figure 1: Riyadh Marathon Growth Over the Years

The marathon features multiple race routes, including a family-friendly 4K course, making it inclusive for participants of all backgrounds, from seasoned athletes to casual joggers and families. This event serves as a catalyst for long-term behavioral change, with many participants beginning their training months in advance. Looking ahead, the 2025 marathon aims for an ambitious goal of 40,000 participants, demonstrating the momentum Saudi Arabia is building around community engagement and physical activity.

The Broader Impact on Citizen’s Physical Activity and Health

While marathons are often associated with elite athleticism, Saudi Arabia’s approach emphasizes participation from all citizens. By making sports events accessible, the Kingdom nurtures a culture of fitness that extends beyond competition. The SFA encourages individuals from all demographics—regardless of age, gender, or fitness level—to engage in regular physical activity. 

Despite the marathon being a recent development in the region, it marks a significant milestone for women's sports. With over 37% of participants being women, the event showcases a remarkable level of female engagement in athletics. This high percentage not only highlights the growing participation of women in marathons globally but also reflects the positive changes occurring in the region regarding women's sports. The Riyadh Marathon serves as a platform for empowering women and promoting inclusivity in athletic events.

 

Figure 2: Riyadh Marathon 2024 Participants Gender Breakdown

The marathon is not just for professional runners; it raises awareness about the importance of physical health. Training for the marathon encourages participants to adopt healthier lifestyles, leading to better nutrition, exercise habits, and overall well-being. By fostering inclusivity, the SFA inspires people across the Kingdom to get active and stay engaged.

MENA Development, Social Cohesion and Civic Pride through Sport

Beyond their physical benefits, marathons act as powerful social catalysts, uniting people from various backgrounds and fostering unity and camaraderie. The events in 2022, 2023 and 2024 attracted participants from around the globe, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a leading sports destination in the MENA region. This inclusivity is vital to the country’s social fabric, as the marathon provides a platform for connection among runners, volunteers, and spectators. The palpable civic pride during these events reflects the Kingdom's commitment to health and fitness, demonstrating that sports can be a unifying force that transcends geographic and cultural boundaries. 

The Riyadh Marathon 2024 is a global event, attracting participants from more than 116 countries around the world. With over 8,000 individuals running and/or walking the 4K track and nearly 8,000 taking part in the 10K track, this marathon exemplifies inclusivity and accessibility. The event welcomes all groups, including families, seniors, and individuals with young children in strollers. By fostering participation from diverse communities, the Riyadh Marathon not only promotes physical health and fitness but also raises awareness about the importance of sports in enhancing overall well-being and building a healthier society.

Hosting a marathon in the region has a profound impact by stimulating the local economy through increased spending from participants and tourists, while promoting health and fitness awareness that encourages residents to adopt healthier lifestyles. These events foster social cohesion and regional unity, enhancing community ties among diverse participants. Moreover, successful marathons can elevate the region's reputation as a tourist destination, facilitate cultural exchange among runners from various countries, and lead to improvements in local infrastructure, benefiting the community long-term. Ultimately, marathons serve as a catalyst for broader social, economic, and cultural development, inspiring other areas in the MENA region to host similar events and increase participation in sports.

Conclusion

As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in sports and fitness, it shapes a future where physical activity is integral to daily life. Through events like the marathon, the SFA encourages citizens to embrace healthy lifestyles, promote social cohesion, and celebrate diversity. The growth of these events—from 10,000 participants in 2022 to an anticipated 40,000 in 2025—demonstrates the Kingdom's commitment to making sports and physical well-being accessible to all. This shift toward inclusive, community-oriented sports events will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on Saudi Arabia’s health culture, setting a positive example for the MENA region and beyond.

Authors:

Dr. Sara Almalik is the Head of Research at the Saudi Sports for All Federation. Dr. Almalik sits on the Advisory Committee of the UNESCO Chair on Governance and Social Responsibility in Sport. 

Dr. Christos Anagnostopoulos is the Founder and Director of the UNESCO Chair on Governance and Social Responsibility in Sport. He is an Assistant Professor in Sport Management at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (Qatar), where he teaches the MSc in Sport and Entertainment Management, a joint program with the University of South Carolina (USA).