oman desert marathon
The Oman Desert Marathon stands apart as an authentically Omani experience—born from local passion and backed by royal patronage under His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said. This isn’t just another desert race; it’s a cultural journey crafted by Omani hands, supported by vibrant local communities, and blessed with full government endorsement.
Where Desert Dreams Meet Omani Heritage
Our carefully designed 165km route tells the story of Oman itself. Beginning in the crimson dunes of Bidiya Oasis, you’ll traverse the magnificent Al Wasil area following the same ancient caravan paths that connected civilizations for centuries, before reaching your triumphant finish at the Arabian Sea.
Each stage—42km, 32km, 40km, 30km, and 21km—reveals a different face of this extraordinary landscape. More than physical endurance, ODM offers cultural immersion where legendary Omani hospitality transforms every challenge into connection, every mile into memory.
about
our team
This is your invitation to experience the desert as only those born to it can share—with authentic warmth, unmatched expertise, and the timeless spirit of Arabian adventure.
Said Al Hajri
Race Director & Founder
A distinguished former Air Force senior officer with 20+ years of strategic leadership, Said founded ODM in 2013 and the legendary Bidiya Off-Road Club (1998). His military precision in crisis management and team development, combined with proven entrepreneurial success, has elevated ODM into a globally broadcast event. As current President of the Oman Athletics Association, Said ensures every aspect of your desert journey reflects both world-class safety standards and authentic Omani hospitality. “For us, ODM isn’t just a race—it’s where community spirit meets desert adventure, welcoming every participant with legendary Omani hospitality.”
Rigel Cedeño
Project Manager
A seasoned event organizer and accomplished desert adventurer, Rigel brings the rare perspective of having conquered ODM’s full 165km challenge herself before joining our team. Her dual experience as both participant and organizer gives her unmatched insight into every aspect of the runner’s journey. Deeply committed to ODM’s mission of showcasing Oman’s natural splendor through authentic local hospitality, she meticulously crafts the participant’s experience, ensuring they discover the same transformative desert magic that inspired her dedication to this extraordinary event.
Almunther Al Hajri
Route Master
A Bidiyah native with 10+ years of ODM experience, Almunther combines military training with intimate knowledge of every dune and valley. Starting as a checkpoint marshal in 2015, he quickly progressed to solving complex route-marking challenges alongside international teams, leveraging his military science background and technical expertise to overcome difficult terrain and measurement issues. By 2017, he was designing complete routes independently, transforming logistical obstacles into seamless desert experiences.
Haitham Al Salhi
Medical Staff
This Muscat-born runner turned medical guardian brings the perfect blend of athletic understanding and healthcare expertise. As ODM Run Club Head Coach, Royal Army of Oman Head coach, physiotherapist, and plaster technician, Haitham ensures your body is in expert hands throughout the challenge.
Volunteer Network
Local and international support crew
Our dedicated team of local Omani volunteers and international supporters creates a safety net across every kilometer. They’re your desert family—monitoring, encouraging, and ensuring your comfort while you push your limits in one of the world’s most beautiful racing environments.