Addis Ababa, February 1, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopian long-distance runners delivered commanding performances at the 25th edition of the Dubai Marathon on Sunday, February 1, 2026, with Nibret Melak and Anchinalu Dessie winning the men’s and women’s elite races and reaffirming Ethiopia’s strength on the global marathon stage.
Making his marathon debut, Melak won the men’s title in 2 hours, 4 minutes and 0 seconds, finishing nearly two minutes ahead of fellow Ethiopian Yasin Haji, who clocked 2:05:52 for second place. Rwanda’s John Hakizimana completed the men’s podium in 2:06:04.
Melak, who won gold in the 10,000 meters at the 2023 African Games, became the sixth Ethiopian male debutant to win the Dubai Marathon. He posted one of the fastest course times ever recorded on the flat, fast Middle Eastern route, setting a world-leading mark for 2026.
In the women’s elite competition, Anchinalu Dessie finished in 2:18:31, nearly four minutes faster than her previous personal best. She took the lead in the final stages after compatriot Muliye Dekebo, who had been leading, experienced stomach problems with just over 2 kilometers remaining. Dekebo finished second in 2:18:43, while Fantu Worku completed an all-Ethiopian women’s podium, finishing third in 2:19:08.
This victory marked Dessie’s third consecutive marathon win, following her triumphs in Seville and Beijing in 2025.
The marathon’s silver-jubilee edition was contested on one of the world’s most celebrated road race courses, known for its flat layout and fast conditions. Thousands of participants took part across the full marathon and shorter races, highlighting the event’s global appeal on its 25th anniversary.
Medals and trophies were presented by HE Saeed Hareb, Secretary-General of the Dubai Sports Council, in ceremonies honoring the top elite finishers. The event also included 10km and 4km races, drawing about 20,000 runners, including a record 4,000 marathon entrants.
Melak said after the race that winning on his debut was his goal, and that he aims to break the world marathon record in the future. Dessie, reflecting on her personal best, said she believes she can run even faster in upcoming races.