About AMUM
Race Background

Al Marmoom Ultramarathon is a series of desert endurance races set in Dubai’s Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve.
Each iconic race offers ultra runners unique physical and mental challenges as they attempt to traverse the high dunes under the desert sun.
The race events consist of a number of distances, including overnight 24 hour runs for endurance athletes as well as shorter distances for recreational runners.

Race terrain includes a varied desert landscape from high dunes to hard stony tracks. Runners can expect to see wildlife along the routes.
Race distances in the series vary from 5KM to 300Km. Depending on the distance the event may include overnight desert camping. Each route has stages and checkpoints with marshals providing water and medical assistance.
Runners are expected to be ‘self -sufficient’ providing their own sustenance, whilst tents and water is supplied by the organizers.

Trophies and prizes are awarded for the top 3 rankings in each race category (male & female) and all participants receive finisher medals.

Al Marmoom Ultramarathon supports Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve’s environmental commitment as one of the world’s leading eco desert sports and tourism destinations and wildlife conservation preserves.

AMUM in numbers

  • 430 Runners
  • 71 Nations
  • 12 Winners
  • 370 Finishers
  • 3500 Liters of Water
  • 50 Crew Members
  • 06 Medical Professionals
  • 06 Support Vehicles
  • 800,000,000 Media Reach
  • 02 Ambulances

Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve

Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve was launched under the initiative of UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The reserve is the first unfenced nature conservation area in the UAE. Located in the desert area of Saih Al Salam in Dubai, Al Marmoom desert Conservation Reserve comprises 10% of the total land area of the emirate, and includes extensive man-made desert wetlands, Al Qudra Lakes. The reserve is home to rare native and migratory wildlife. It hosts one of the largest populations of Arabian oryx and the highest concentration of large flamingos, as well as home to over 204 species of native birds, 158 species of migratory birds, many other endangered species.
Additionally, the 3,000 year old Saruq Al Hadid archaeological site, dating back to the Iron Age is also located within the reserve.

Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve reflects Dubai’s goal to preserve the local environment, including the nature of the desert, it’s cultural heritage, as well as providing a natural habitat for threatened wildlife.