Dubai Run 2025: Sheikh Zayed Road to be Running Track; Salik Toll Changes

Dubai is preparing to close a major thoroughfare on November 23 as it hosts the Dubai Run 2025, a key event within the larger Dubai Fitness Challenge. The event, expected to draw hundreds of thousands of participants, will transform Sheikh Zayed Road into a massive running track.

This year’s run offers two routes – a 5km course and a 10km course – catering to runners of all levels. The 5km route, designed for families, will start near the Museum of the Future, loop around the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Opera, and finish close to the Dubai Mall. The 10km route, intended for more experienced runners, will begin before crossing the Dubai Canal bridge, follow Sheikh Zayed Road, and conclude near the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Gate.

The fun run is part of a city-wide initiative encouraging residents to dedicate 30 minutes each day for 30 days to physical activity. Organizers have already made the official event t-shirts available for participants. The event will begin at 6:30 AM local time, with the final runners expected to cross the starting line by 8:00 AM. Sheikh Zayed Road will reopen at 9:00 AM following the conclusion of the run. Participants are required to collect their bibs from the Sabeel Park Fitness Village starting today, as entry will not be permitted without one.

∙ Traffic Management
In anticipation of the Dubai Run 2025, Salik has announced updated toll timings and rates to support traffic management. These temporary adjustments are intended to minimize congestion and maintain a steady flow of traffic as thousands of runners take to the streets.

∙ Updated Toll Rates
Peak Hours: 6 AED from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4 AED from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Off-Peak Hours: 4 AED from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and 4 AED from 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM.
Authorities advise drivers to familiarize themselves with the updated rates before traveling on Sunday. Salik stated that the temporary changes will help balance traffic, particularly during road closures related to the event. Checking travel times in advance and avoiding peak hours will ensure a smoother journey.