42Km Al Sharqiyah Marathon
42 KM
Starting from the mystical Oasis of Al Wasil, the AlSharqyah Marathon offers the ideal stepping stone for runners aspiring to conquer ultra-marathons on sand. This challenging 42 KM desert race provides an authentic taste of what makes Oman’s desert terrain so legendary among the world’s elite desert runners.
Event Overview
Distance : 42 KM (Full Marathon)
Date : January 10th, 2026
Start Time : 07:30 AM
Route : from Al Wasil Fort
Water Stations : Every 10 KM until finish line
Registration Deadline : January 5th, 2026 (or when places sell out)
Entry Fee : 42 OMR ($109 USD)
Course Details
Start Location
- Meeting Point: Al Wasil Fort area
- Parking: Available 200 meters from the fort
- Walk to Start: Short 200-meter walk from parking to official start line
Your Connection to ODM Excellence
Run Alongside Legends: Experience the exact first stage of the iconic Oman Desert Marathon Classic 165 KM race, sharing the course with:
- Elite world desert champions
- International ultra-marathon veterans
- Runners from across the globe
- Athletes challenging themselves in Oman’s legendary desert
The Ultimate Training Ground: Whether you’re preparing for your first ultra-marathon or seeking to test your desert running skills, this marathon provides the perfect introduction to sand running techniques and desert race conditions.
why
Authentic Desert Challenge
- Proven Course: Follow the same route as Stage 1 of the world-renowned ODM 165 KM Classic
- Desert Mastery: Learn to navigate soft sand, rolling dunes, and changing terrain
- Elite Competition: Measure yourself against some of the world's best desert runners
- Cultural Experience: Start from the historic Oasis of Al Wasil and finish at the iconic Al Wasil Fort
Perfect Preparation
- Ultra-Marathon Gateway: Ideal preparation for longer desert races
- Technical Skills: Develop essential sand running techniques
- Mental Preparation: Experience the unique psychological challenges of desert racing
- Confidence Building: Complete a full marathon in one of the world's most challenging environments
Shared Adventure
- International Community: Join runners from around the world
- Elite Mentorship: Learn from world champions participating in the same event
- Supportive Environment: Benefit from the same professional support system as ODM Classic participants
- Memorable Experience: Create lasting memories in Oman's spectacular desert landscape
Race Highlights
Historic Start: Begin your journey at al wasil fort and thru the legendary Oasis of Al Wasil, a natural wonder that has sustained desert travelers for centuries.
Challenging Terrain: Navigate the beautiful yet demanding Sharqyah Sands, experiencing the same conditions that have made the ODM Classic a bucket-list race for ultra-runners worldwide.
Iconic Finish: Cross the finish line at Al Wasil Fort, a testament to Oman’s rich heritage and the perfect backdrop for your desert marathon achievement.
Professional Support: Enjoy the same high-quality race organization and support that has made Oman Desert Marathon events internationally renowned.
Who Should Participate?
Aspiring Ultra-Runners: Perfect for those considering longer desert races and wanting to test their abilities on a challenging but achievable distance.
Experienced Marathoners: Ideal for runners looking to add a unique desert marathon to their portfolio and experience truly challenging terrain.
Adventure Seekers: Perfect for those wanting to combine athletic achievement with cultural exploration in one of the world’s most stunning desert environments.
Desert Racing Enthusiasts: Essential for anyone serious about desert running who wants to experience the legendary ODM course.
Join the ODM Desert Racing Family
This isn’t just about running different distances – it’s about joining a global community that celebrates human potential, natural beauty, and the transformative power of desert adventures. Whether you’re 8 or 80, running your first kilometer or your thousandth, the ODM Community Desert Racing Series welcomes you.