Dubai’s running scene has seen remarkable growth in recent years, with local run clubs reporting a more than 750 per cent increase in membership over the past decade. Many clubs now count over 5,000 members and 1,000 regular weekly runners. Government initiatives such as the Dubai Fitness Challenge, alongside investment in world-class infrastructure, have helped establish the emirate as a global hub for health, wellness and mass-participation sports. This growth is mirrored by the GCC’s running apparel market, which is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 5.56 per cent to reach US $1.57 billion by 2033, signalling strong demand for performance and innovation.

Now in its seventh year, the National Running Show in the UK has firmly established itself as the biggest home for runners in the UK with over 30,000 attendees visiting the last edition in January 2025. Run Show MENA will tap into this momentum by creating a platform that unites the entire running ecosystem – from brands and service providers to community clubs and international icons.

Confirmed speakers for the first edition include some of the sport’s most celebrated figures: four-time Olympic champion Sir Mo Farah, marathon world record holder Paula Radcliffe and ultra-running pioneer Dean Karnazes. Olympian Eilish McColgan attended the Dubai launch today to help mark the announcement. Further ambassadors representing the diversity and inclusivity of the running community across the GCC will be revealed in the coming months.

Mike Seaman, Group CEO of Raccoon Media Group, added, “Run Show MENA is about bringing the running community together. Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced runner, this event is designed to inspire and support you. Our aim is to create an inclusive space where runners can meet their heroes, discover new products and technology, learn from experts and connect with the clubs and communities that make the sport so special.

We see Run Show MENA becoming a long-term catalyst for growing the sport across the region and encouraging more people to get involved. Dubai is the perfect place to host a world-class running show and we’re excited to deliver an experience that leaves people motivated, connected and ready to run.”

Eilish McColgan, British Olympian and British and European record holder, commented, “Running has been part of my life since childhood, and that early sense of community shaped the athlete I am today. Dubai has become a second home for me - its winter climate, world-class facilities and safe, connected running routes make it one of the best places in the world to train. I’m especially passionate about supporting the next generation of runners, particularly young women, and I hope Run Show MENA will inspire more people to discover the sport and feel the same sense of belonging that I did.”

Ghani Souleymane, Dubai Fitness Challenge, Hall of Fame Winner added, “Run Show MENA is a fantastic opportunity for the local running community to come together as one. I began my own running journey here in Dubai in 2017, and the support and motivation I found within the community played a huge role in shaping my progress and sharing my story internationally. Much of my endurance running is driven by a desire to give back through charity and to make a positive difference in people’s lives. I’m excited to see Run Show MENA inspire and unite runners across the region.”

Raccoon Media Group, known for its award-winning National Running Show in the UK and over 20 other high-profile B2B and B2C events, will work closely with regional partners to ensure Run Show MENA reflects both the global spirit of running and the distinctive culture of Dubai’s active community. Confirmed sponsors for the event include Polar, Refix Seawater Hydration and Runnies.