On 11 January 2026, Yas Marina Circuit will open to thousands of runners for RunYAS 2026. Held in partnership with Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) and organised by Ethara, the event aims to inspire participants to “Be a Champion” in health and wellbeing by crossing the finish line.
The event brings together families, schools, athletes, and first-time runners to experience the joy of movement and step into the new year with a commitment to healthier living.
RunYAS offers participation categories for every age and pace:
– Yas Kids: 1k and 2k races exclusively for Abu Dhabi schools and sports clubs. All participants must be under 14 on the day the race.
– Yas Relay: For teams of 3 and part of the Yas Lap category. You have the chance to run with friends or family – and still Be a Champion!
– Yas Lap: a run for everyone! Families, colleagues, friends, first time and serious runners. Yas Marina Circuit is 5.281k and a realistic challenge for all ages! When you cross the finish line, you will receive a bespoke RunYAS Champions t-shirt designed by Capelli Sport as proof of your success! The Yas Lap is open to 14 years of age and older (if parental consent is provided).
- Yas 10k: a perfect start to the year for anyone who wants to challenge themselves to do an iconic 10k, advanced runners, or those training for long-distance runs.
H.E. Dr. Rashed Al Suwaidi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, said: “RunYAS forms part of ADPHC’s wider mission to promote active lifestyles, reduce the burden of chronic disease, and make healthy choices easier and more accessible for all residents. The initiative reinforces Abu Dhabi’s long-term commitment to build a city where wellbeing is embedded into everyday life, across homes, workplaces, and public spaces.”
Saif Rashid Al Noaimi, Chief Executive Officer of Ethara, said: “RunYAS is an opportunity to celebrate community sports, health, and wellbeing at Yas Marina Circuit. We aim to build RunYAS into a landmark annual running festival – whilst inspiring the community and visitors to lead healthy and active lives. With 2026 being the Year of the Family, we encourage runners of all abilities and families to participate.”
Sir Mo Farah, four-time Olympic champion and RunYAS ambassador commented: “Being a Champion is not about winning, it’s about finishing! I’m really looking forward to coming to Abu Dhabi and seeing people of all ages and backgrounds take on the iconic Yas Marina Circuit in January.”
Sir Mo has invited Emirati sprinter – 17-year old Maryam Al Farsi, who participated in her first Olympics in Paris 2024, to join him to inspire both female and younger runners to RunYAS.
Al Farsi commented: “I am so excited about RunYAS! It will be a great event for everyone. I usually run sprint events but I am signed up for the Yas Lap and can’t wait! Come on everyone – let’s do this!”
Event registrations will be powered by Premier Online, the UAE’s leading endurance-event platform, and open Thursday 20th, 2025.
There are early bird offers with 30% discounts for all the races until December 15th. Sign up today at www.RunYas.ae or on the Premier Online platform. Be a Champion. RunYAS!
