Dhiraagu Maldives Road Race draws more than 5,600 runners for 20 November
More than 5,600 runners from around the world are set to compete in the Dhiraagu Maldives Road Race at Hulhumalé Central Park on 20 November 2026, Dhiraagu says.
More than 5,600 runners from across the world will line up at Hulhumalé Central Park on Friday 20 November 2026 for the Dhiraagu Maldives Road Race (DMRR), Dhiraagu says.
The company, which says final preparations are now under way, describes the event as the largest run in the Maldives.
Record entry
Registration has now closed. Entries were initially capped at 4,000 but the limit was raised in response to demand, and Dhiraagu says participation is the highest the race has seen.
Distances and new team contests
Runners can choose from a half marathon, a 10K or a 5K. This year also brings newly introduced team categories, first announced when entries opened in August:
- Corporate
- Resort
- Running clubs
- Colleges and universities
Teams are made up of four runners, with a single champion team named in each category. Prize money across all categories adds up to MVR 296,000.
World Athletics ranking status
On 20 October, Dhiraagu announced that DMRR 2026 is a World Athletics Ranking Competition, meaning eligible results may count towards athletes' World Athletics rankings. The course carries World Athletics certification, and the race appears on the AIMS World Running Calendar.
Fundraising for child protection
The race is dedicated to child protection and offers NGOs a platform to campaign for children's rights and to raise money. Funds are shared as follows:
- MVR 200,000 to the top five NGOs as nominated by participants
- MVR 100 from every registration, together with all proceeds from special bibs, divided equally among endorsed NGOs
Advice for runners
Dhiraagu says the event sets out to promote healthy habits and to give everyone, from seasoned runners to first-timers, a chance to take part. It is asking participants to put their health first and to prepare with experienced coaches from this year's coaching partners: The Wellness Club, Island Runners Maldives and Marathon Runners Maldives.
Updates are posted on Dhiraagu's social media channels and the race website.