Motorists planning to travel across Dubai on Sunday, February 8, should be aware of several temporary road closures and traffic restrictions due to the annual Burj2Burj Half Marathon.
The popular race attracts thousands of participants each year and follows a scenic route connecting two of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks: the Burj Khalifa and the Burj Al Arab. As runners take to the streets early in the morning, a number of key roads across the city will be partially or fully closed, potentially causing delays for drivers.
This year’s event will begin near Jumeirah Emirates Towers, with runners setting off at 6.30am. The course stretches through central Dubai before finishing near Umm Suqeim Park, close to the Burj Al Arab.
To ensure the safety of participants and spectators, race organisers and local authorities have announced a series of road closures along the route.
Roads Affected by the Burj2Burj Race
Several major roads will experience closures or lane restrictions during the event. Drivers are advised to plan their journeys carefully and allow extra travel time if they need to be on the roads during the morning hours.
The following traffic measures will be in place:
- Al Mustaqbal Street (D86) will be closed southbound from Jumeirah Emirates Towers between 5.30am and 8.30am.
- Lower Financial Centre Road will have inner westbound lanes occupied by runners from 5.30am to 8.30am.
- Al Safa Street will be partially closed westbound from 5.30am until 8.30am.
- Al Wasl Road will have partial closures affecting the northbound inner lane from 5.30am to 8.25am.
- No left turns onto Al Hudaiba Road will be permitted between 5.30am and 8.25am.
- Jumeirah Beach Road before Canal Bridge will have southbound inner lane restrictions from 6.30am to 9.20am.
- Jumeirah Beach Road after Canal Bridge will be fully closed southbound between 5.30am and 8.25am.
The closures are expected to affect traffic flow across several busy districts, particularly for commuters heading toward the coast during the morning.
Restrictions in Al Manara and Umm Al Sheif
In addition to the main route closures, residents living in Al Manara and Umm Al Sheif should expect controlled access between 6.30am and 10.30am.
Traffic management teams will implement temporary restrictions to ensure runners can pass safely through these areas. Vehicle access will remain available, but movement may be paused periodically when large groups of runners are approaching.
Drivers exiting residential communities will be directed through designated routes, with diversions operating via the Al Manara and Umm Al Sheif intersections. Temporary holding zones will also be used to manage vehicle flow.
Traffic marshals will be stationed throughout the route and surrounding neighbourhoods to coordinate movement and assist motorists where necessary.
Race Route and Event Details
The Burj2Burj Half Marathon has become one of Dubai’s most anticipated running events, attracting participants ranging from first-time runners to elite international athletes.
The race begins at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, close to the Museum of the Future, before heading towards the city’s coastline. Participants will pass some of Dubai’s most recognisable landmarks along the way, including the Burj Khalifa, which appears near the opening kilometres of the course.
The route then continues through central Dubai and along Jumeirah Beach Road before concluding near Umm Suqeim Park.
Organisers have arranged hydration stations at various points throughout the course to support runners. These stations are expected to be positioned in a way that allows limited traffic access where possible.
Supporters lining the route can also expect live entertainment and music at selected locations, helping create a festival atmosphere for both participants and spectators.
Advice for Drivers
If you plan to travel on Sunday morning, consider using alternative routes or adjusting your departure times to avoid affected areas. Navigation apps may provide real-time updates, but motorists should still expect delays around the race corridor.
Those attending the event as participants or spectators are encouraged to arrive early and follow instructions from event staff and traffic officials.
With thousands of runners expected to take part, the Burj2Burj Half Marathon promises an exciting morning of sport in Dubai, but it will also bring temporary disruptions to some of the city’s busiest roads.
FAQs: Burj2Burj Half Marathon Road Closures in Dubai
Several major roads will experience closures or restrictions, including Al Mustaqbal Street, Financial Centre Road, Al Safa Street, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah Beach Road, and parts of 2nd December Street.
Most closures and lane restrictions will start at 5.30am and continue until approximately 9.20am, depending on the location.
Yes, access will remain open but controlled. Traffic marshals will manage vehicle movement, and temporary holding areas may be used while runners pass through.
The race starts at Jumeirah Emirates Towers near the Museum of the Future and finishes near Umm Suqeim Park, close to the Burj Al Arab.
Yes, motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes and follow traffic diversions, particularly through Al Manara and Umm Al Sheif intersections where applicable.
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