Mansoor bin Mohammed Crowns Winners of the 24th Dubai Marathon: Ethiopian Runners Shine
Ethiopian athletes dominated both men's and women's races, crowning winners of the 24th Dubai Marathon that has been won over 17,000 participants at the prestigious event in Umm Suqeim Street, Jumeirah, by the hands of Mansoor bin Mohammed.
The 24th Dubai Marathon-the oldest marathon race in the region-was ended with a marvelous display of sportsmanship on the Umm Suqeim Street, Jumeirah. Sponsored by the Dubai Sports Council, this year saw participation from over 17,000 participants coming from different nationalities and ages, thus speaking volumes about its international dimension. H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, marked the event and crowned the winner, which reasserted the position of Dubai as a platform for international sports events.
Ethiopian Debuts with Winning Performance in the Men's Race: Bute Gemechu Prevails Ethiopia had Bute Gemechu on top at an electrifying men's race at 2:04.50, surpassing his country fellows Berehanu Tsegu at 2:05.14 and Shifera Tamru at 2:05.28. The 23-year-old novice internationalist left a gap ahead by taking control from the 35 km mark onwards.
It was my first marathon, so I didn't know what to expect. But at 36 km, I realized I could win," Gemechu said. His victory made it the fifth straight year a debutant has taken the top honours of the Dubai men's race, indicating how the race remains unpredictable and competitive.
Women's Race: The Victory that Defied the Definition of Bedatu Hirpa's Career
Women's: The women's race was like an Ethiopian sweep. Bedatu Hirpa took the title in 2:18.27 with a late overtake of Dera Dida, the two-time defending champion. Dida took silver and a personal best with 2:18.32, while Tigist Girma took third with 2:20.47.
"I ran behind Dera Dida most of the race. But when I saw her struggling toward the end, I made a move," explained Hirpa. A proven example of strategic pacing and determination is what this victory stands for.
Both champions took home $80,000, while the runner-up and third-place finishers banked $40,000 and $20,000, respectively.
Notable Highlights
The Dubai Marathon isn’t just about elite runners. It celebrates inclusivity, with participants competing in the popular 10 km Road Race and 4 km Fun Run alongside the classic 42.195 km marathon.
In the men's race, Yassir Ech Chaachoui from Morocco took the top prize with a time of 28.20 minutes while running the distance of 10km. In the women's events, Ethiopia's Gemene Tunku had the winning time at 31.03 minutes by narrowly finishing ahead of Chaltu Diriba. Great Britain's Eilish McColgan took the last of the top three places with 31.14 minutes.
This year’s marathon featured elite athletes alongside thousands of amateur runners, emphasizing the event’s role in promoting health, fitness, and community engagement. The presence of international runners underscores Dubai’s ability to attract top talent and create a multicultural sporting spectacle.
The event also attracted huge support from some of the major organizations like adidas, Channel 4 Radio Network, ITP Media Group, XIAOMI, JETOUR, Bisleri Water, Dubai RTA, Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, and SIRO One Za'abeel.
Athletes with an eye on the future success
Bute Gemechu expressed his ambitions after winning: "After this success in Dubai, I will now set my eyes on bigger things with the Boston Marathon among my top-most priorities for 2025." On her part, Bedatu Hirpa was eager to compete further, dedicating her trophy at Dubai to her coach and promising to compete at the Boston Marathon.
The 24th Dubai Marathon reaffirmed its status as a premier event in the global athletics calendar. With stellar performances by Ethiopian runners and a diverse field of participants, the marathon showcased Dubai’s commitment to excellence and inclusivity in sports. H.H. Sheikh Mansoor’s presence added prestige to the occasion, inspiring athletes and spectators alike.
This promises to be one of the high lights in the region's sporting calendar, encouraging fitness and competition across borders.
FAQs:
What is the Dubai Marathon, and why is it important?
The Dubai Marathon is the oldest marathon race in the region, known for its inclusivity and competitive spirit. It attracts elite international runners and thousands of participants from around the world.
Who was the winner of the 24th Dubai Marathon in 2025?
Ethiopian debutant Bute Gemechu won the men's race with a time of 2:04.50, while Bedatu Hirpa triumphed in the women's category with a time of 2:18.27.
How many participants were there in the 2025 Dubai Marathon?
This event was attended by over 17,000 participants: elite runners and amateurs competing in different categories like the 10 km Road Race and the 4 km Fun Run.
What did the winners take home?
The male and female champions both took $80,000. The runner-up took home $40,000, while the third placed it at $20,000.
What are the prospects for the winners?
Both Bute Gemechu and Bedatu Hirpa are set to compete in big international races like the Boston Marathon, building on their success at the Dubai event.
