The eighth edition of the Qatar East-to-West Ultra Marathon will kick off at dawn tomorrow, Friday, starting from the Sheraton Doha Hotel. The race is organized by the Qatar Sports for All Federation in partnership with the Ministry of Sports and Youth. This international race starts in Doha and ends at Dukhan Beach, spanning a distance of 90 km. It is held in cooperation with the Qatar Ultra Runners Team, and participation is open to men and women aged 18 and above.

The Qatar East to West Ultra Marathon is considered an international race in which participants challenge the desert trails across 90kms. It provides an excellent opportunity to experience a remarkable route only available during this race, thanks to its long distance crossing the country from one end to the other and the pleasant mild weather conditions during this time of year. Last year’s edition saw the participation of 1,500 male and female runners from 73 nationalities, including 733 men and 267 women of various backgrounds. The number is expected to increase this year due to the growing interest in the ultra marathon since its beginning.

Mr. Abdullah Al-Dosari, Executive Director of the Qatar Sports for All Federation and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, emphasized that this year’s edition is expected to be even more distinguished, thanks to continuous improvements in preparation year after year. He clarified that the race is not restricted to professional runners; it is open to both genders, provided that participants are medically fit. He noted that the total duration of the race generally ranges between 12 and 16 hours, while the first individual finisher completes the distance in about six hours, compared to five hours and a few minutes for the relay teams.

Al-Dosari explained that the race is sponsored and organized by the Qatar Sports for All Federation and is part of the comprehensive calendar for 2025, which includes more than 750 events and championships. It is also a part of the federation’s major races and marathons held throughout the year. What distinguishes this race from others, he said, is its 90-kilometer stretch, starting from Sheraton Park on the Doha Corniche and ending at Dukhan Beach. The route passes through Al Shahaniya, Al Nasraniya, Al Uwaynah, and Cuban beach before reaching the finish line at Dukhan Beach. Along the course, there are five rest stations spaced every 7 km for water replenishment, with ambulances and police vehicles available to support and assist participants.

Regarding the decision to hold the race in December, Al-Dosari stated that it is due to the favorable weather conditions that allow participants to enjoy the pleasant and mild climate at this time of year. He described the “Ultra Marathon Race” as a sporting event that brings together running enthusiasts and offers a unique marathon adventure for individual participants or teams of two to six runners. Team members rotate through the six stages of the race, and additional runners can be added through the event’s application until the team reaches the allowed maximum. For individual participation, runners must complete the full race distance.