Dhiraagu Maldives Road Race gets World Athletics Ranking Competition recognition

The Dhiraagu Maldives Road Race (DMRR) 2026 has been officially recognised as a World Athletics Ranking Competition, marking a significant milestone for the event and the development of competitive running in the Maldives.

The recognition means eligible performances recorded at the race can contribute to athletes’ World Athletics rankings, giving runners the opportunity to achieve internationally recognised results in the Maldives.

Alongside the recognition, registration for DMRR 2026 has closed with more than 5,500 participants, the highest number recorded for the event to date, further strengthening its position as the largest run in the Maldives. Initially limited to 4,000 participants, the registration capacity was increased in response to overwhelming demand, allowing more runners to participate in the highly anticipated annual event.

The run is scheduled to take place on Friday, November 20, 2026, at Hulhumalé Central Park, featuring the Half Marathon, 10K and 5K Open categories, along with newly introduced team categories. Bringing together experienced athletes and first-time participants, DMRR continues to promote healthier and more active lifestyles, while encouraging participants to build confidence and experience the personal achievement of completing a race.

Continuing its longstanding tradition, DMRR 2026 will once again be dedicated to child protection, a key focus of Dhiraagu’s social responsibility programme. The event will provide a platform for NGOs to advocate for children’s rights and raise funds to support their causes.

DMRR is the first international run held in the Maldives and is listed on the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) World Running Calendar, with a World Athletics-certified race route. As the country’s largest annual run, DMRR brings together runners and communities from across the Maldives and overseas.