The Kingdom's most challenging marathon is set to return to the AlUla desert this August.
Fancy a challenge of both mental and physical fitness? Desert Blaze has been confirmed to return to AlUla this August. Arguably the Kingdom's hottest and most challenging race, the event has been classed with an 'extremely high' difficulty rating, it promises to push even the most elite of athletes to their limit.
Be prepared to push your limits as you race through breathtaking desert landscapes, soaking up both the scenery and the scorching summer heat.
Returning to the desert on Saturday August 15 & Sunday August 16, 2025, the Desert Blaze event will offer competitors several different of distances to choose from. So whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just starting out, there will be a race and challenge to suit everyone: choose from 5km, 10km, a half marathon (21km), or for the ultimate test of endurance, take on the the full 42km marathon. The 5km and 10km races are open to runners over 16 years of age, while the half marathon and marathon require participants to be at least 18 years old.
With average daily August temperatures soaring to an eye-watering 44°C, the AlUla Desert Blaze is the ultimate endurance challenge. But there is also massive prize money at stake, last year's marathon winner scooped a prize pot of SAR15,000.
Set to take place during the hottest part of the day, organisers take every precaution to prioritise the safety of the athletes taking part. Frequent refreshment stops are strategically placed along the course to combat dehydration and offer temporary shade should it be needed. Additionally, professional medical personnel will be on hand throughout the race to ensure everyone's well-being.
The race course winds through stunning scenery, showcasing towering sandstone formations and ancient tombs carved by the Nabataeans. Aside from the unique physical challenge of this race, the blend of physical exertion and simultaneous cultural immersion is set to make the AlUla Desert Blaze an unforgettable experience for even the most experienced athletes.
Known as 'the living museum', AlUla is an ancient Saudi Arabian oasis city that blends incredible history with ultra-luxe modern amenities and resorts. From well-preserved tombs carved into sandstone cliffs, renovated ancient mudbrick buildings, jaw-dropping remnants of past civilisations such as ancient rock inscriptions and perfectly preserved archaic towns.
After the run, DJ sets, photo booths, food trucks and merch stands will help runners cool off and enjoy their stunning surroundings.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site caters to adventure seekers, offering activities like desert sports and oasis exploration, history buffs with opportunities to delve into the Nabataean and other ancient cultures and those seeking the ultimate luxury escape in the middle of the Saudi Arabian desert.
AlUla Desert Blaze, August 15 & 16, 2025
Entry from SAR50, Meeting point at Hegra South Gate, AlUla.
