Oman Desert Marathon to be organised in January 2024

Muscat: Oman Desert Marathon (ODM) announced that its ninth edition will be held from January 20-24, 2024.

The 165km, self-sufficient four-stage race has been held in Oman’s spectacular deserts since 2013, and it presents runners with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to course through the Sultanate’s unique landscape and enjoy its rich culture and world-renowned hospitality.

The race is divided into four stages: 42km on day one, 55km on day two, 47km on day three, and 21km on the fourth and final day.

The last edition consisted of Omanis, who made up the majority of the runners, as well as a number of participants from various parts of the world, including Spain, France, Ukraine, Italy, Germany, Poland, Britain, Belgium, Switzerland and Morocco.

The eighth edition of ODM took an interesting turn, with memorable yet unexpected victories from the Swiss Corina Sommer in the Women’s category and Morocco’s Mohamed El Morabity in the Men’s category. As for the Omani runners, Saleh AlSaidy, Sami Al Saidi and Hamdan AlKhatri were in the top three.

In the ninth edition, which is taking place in Bidiya as per ODM traditions, there will also be shorter races in addition to the main event, which will start one day earlier, on the 19th of January. The shorter races are for distances of 10 km, 5 km and 2 km, which proved to be quite popular in the last edition.

Racers who wish to run longer distances of 42 km and 21 km will also have the chance to do so on January 20th.

The perfect weather conditions in January help runners to enjoy the desert to the fullest. With an average high temperature of 25 degrees during the day, participants are sure to get an enjoyable experience that will forever be etched into their memories.

For those in Muscat, there will also be a chance participate in a night desert run, which will take place in October 2024 in Ghala. This will be the 2nd edition of the 5KM Night Trail charity race, and it will give participants the unique opportunity to enjoy a run (or a walk) under the beautiful starlit desert sky. ODM donated 100% of its profits to the Environment Society of Oman

The 165 km Oman Desert Marathon Classic also has a night stage, and that was purposely orchestrated with the aim of giving runners the chance to experience the magical dessert night sky, as well as to raise environmental awareness and motivate participants to help protect and conserve our natural heritage.