Dubai, UAE – The 2025 Dubai Women’s Marathon, held on January 12th, delivered an extraordinary showcase of endurance and determination, with Ethiopian runners dominating the podium in spectacular fashion.
Bedatu Hirpa emerged as the star of the day, claiming victory with a dramatic finish in a time of 2:18:27. Hirpa, who set a new personal best, executed a strategic push in the final 100 meters, overtaking last year’s champion Dera Dida, who finished a close second with a time of 2:18:32. Despite battling severe stomach cramps in the last kilometer, Dida displayed remarkable resilience to secure her position. The third spot went to Tigist Girma, who completed the race in 2:20:47.
The event attracted over 17,000 participants from various nationalities, creating a vibrant and competitive atmosphere. The presence of Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, added a touch of prestige to the event. He graciously presented the winners with their trophies and awards, celebrating their exceptional achievements.
Reflecting on her victory, Hirpa expressed her excitement and gratitude to her coach, family, and supporters. She emphasized the importance of perseverance and the thrill of achieving such a significant milestone in her career.
Here’s a rundown of the top 10 finishers in the elite women’s race:
- Bedatu Hirpa (ETH) – 2:18:27
- Dera Dida (ETH) – 2:18:32
- Tigist Girma (ETH) – 2:20:47
- Meskerem Assefa (ETH) – 2:22:01
- Helalia Johannes (NAM) – 2:23:15
- Askale Merachi (ETH) – 2:24:03
- Birke Debele (ETH) – 2:25:27
- Fantu Worku (ETH) – 2:26:14
- Natasha Wodak (CAN) – 2:27:36
- Ruth Chepngetich (KEN) – 2:28:43
A Memorable Experience at the Dubai Marathon
Co-Founder and Editor, Brian Smith, had the privilege of attending the 2025 Dubai Women’s Marathon, an event brimming with unparalleled excitement. The day began with the thrilling marathon, showcasing the dedication and passion of elite female athletes.
he final stretch was intense and the crowd ignited as Bedatu Hirpa overtook Dera Dida. Dida used every last cell of energy to keep fighting towards the finish line but was just beaten to it! At the finish line, the athletes were exhausted but still managed to find the energy to say thank you to their home fans who had been singing and dancing since 6 am.
Following the race, Brian attended an engaging news conference where athletes and organizers shared their insights and experiences. The dialogue was both inspiring and informative, shedding light on the hard work and determination that goes into such a prestigious event.
The evening culminated in a spectacular award ceremony that left a lasting impression. The atmosphere was electric, infused with a unique energy and vibrant entertainment that kept the audience captivated. The combination of celebratory cheers, live performances, and the camaraderie of the participants created a truly unforgettable experience.
Brian’s experience at the Dubai Marathon was a testament to the event’s excellence and its ability to bring together diverse individuals in a celebration of sport and achievement.
Event Sponsors and Vendors
The success of the 2025 Dubai Women’s Marathon would not have been possible without the generous support of our esteemed sponsors and dedicated vendors. Their contributions and commitment have been instrumental in creating an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each one of them.
Premier Sponsors
- Dubai Sports Council: As the main governing body for sports in Dubai, their support and leadership have been pivotal in organizing this prestigious event.
- Emirates Airlines: Our official airline partner, providing seamless travel experiences for participants and attendees from around the world.
- Dubai Holding: A key sponsor contributing to the overall success and organization of the marathon.
Supporting Sponsors
- Adidas: Providing top-notch sports equipment and merchandise for the event.
- Gatorade: Our hydration partner, keeping participants refreshed and energized throughout the marathon.
- Huawei: Offering cutting-edge technology and support to enhance the marathon experience.
- Asics: Supporting our athletes with high-performance footwear and apparel.
- Xiaomi: Powering the marathon with innovative technology and seamless connectivity for athletes and spectators alike.
Official Vendors
- Majid Al Futtaim: Providing logistical support and event management services.
- Fitness First: Leading warm-up sessions and fitness activities for participants.
- Spinneys: Supplying nutritious food and snacks for athletes and attendees.
- Aquafina: Ensuring a steady supply of pure, refreshing water throughout the event.
- Coffee Planet: Fueling early morning performance
These sponsors and vendors have played a crucial role in the success of the 2025 Dubai Women’s Marathon, and we are grateful for their unwavering support and dedication.