Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced a significant adjustment to metro operating hours in preparation for the upcoming Dubai Marathon 2026. Instead of the standard Sunday opening time of 8:00 AM, metro services will commence operations at 5:00 AM on February 1, 2026, maintaining service until midnight to accommodate the anticipated influx of participants and spectators.
The temporary schedule modification represents a strategic response to the transportation demands created by one of Dubai’s premier sporting events. The extended hours will provide enhanced accessibility for marathon attendees while demonstrating the RTA’s commitment to supporting major city events through flexible public transportation solutions.
This operational adjustment follows the authority’s ongoing efforts to optimize Dubai’s transit network, which recently included public awareness campaigns promoting metro etiquette and the development of station infrastructure projects. The early morning start time particularly addresses the logistical needs of marathon participants requiring transportation to event starting points before dawn.
Regular Sunday metro service typically begins at 8:00 AM and continues until midnight. The RTA’s proactive announcement allows residents and visitors to plan their travel arrangements accordingly for the event day, ensuring smooth transit operations throughout the marathon proceedings.