Dubai Metro to operate 3 hours earlier on marathon day

On Sunday, Jan. 12, Dubai Metro will begin operating earlier than usual, starting at 5 a.m. instead of the typical 8 a.m.

The change, announced by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), is aimed at accommodating the influx of people attending the Dubai Marathon, set to take place on the same day.

The 24th edition of the Dubai Marathon will feature thousands of participants from around the world, all set to hit the streets of Dubai at 6 a.m.

The event will include three races: a 4 km fun run, a 10 km run, and the iconic 42 km marathon. The race will start and end on Umm Suqeim Road, across from Madinat Jumeirah, providing a scenic backdrop for the event.

One of the standout runners this year is Lelisa Desisa, the former World Marathon champion.

Desisa, who made headlines in 2013 when he won the Dubai Marathon with a personal best of 2:04:45, will return to the race, adding extra excitement to an already highly anticipated event for both amateur and elite runners.

The decision to extend the operating hours of Dubai Metro aims to ensure smooth transportation for marathon participants and spectators.

On Jan. 12, both the Red Line and Green Line will run from 5 a.m. to midnight, providing ample time for early risers and marathon-goers to get to the event. While the extended metro hours are mainly for those attending the marathon, anyone in Dubai that day can also take advantage of the earlier start for added convenience.

With the marathon taking center stage in the city, the extended metro hours will help make transportation more accessible for everyone, whether you’re a runner, spectator, or simply going about your day. The changes are in effect only for Jan. 12, with normal operating hours resuming the following day.