Organisers have confirmed the Plus500 City Half Marathon will take over the DIFC Gate District on Sunday, 16 November 2025, operating between 05:30 AM and 11:00 AM in Dubai time. The race anchors its seventh edition within the Dubai Fitness Challenge period, bringing multiple distances to the city’s financial hub. You can expect an early build-up under the Gate and a steady flow of finishers through late morning. The key detail is the 05:30 AM start window for event operations.
What is the schedule on race morning?
The event village opens at 05:30 AM, while gun starts are staggered: 21 km at 06:15 AM, 15 km and 10 km at 06:45 AM, and 5 km at 07:00 AM. Moreover, the course and on-site activities are scheduled to wind down by about 11:00 AM. Because start pens fill quickly, aim to arrive 45–60 minutes before your wave. Early start demands pre-dawn arrival.
Where is the venue and how should you reach it?
The start–finish area sits at the Gate District, DIFC (Gate Avenue/DIFC Gate Building, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai). Taxis and ride-hailing remain the most reliable approach before sunrise. However, note that regular Sunday Metro service begins at 8:00 AM, so it won’t serve the 05:30–07:00 wave arrivals. Additionally, Financial Centre Metro Station is a short walk from the Gate District when trains are running. Dubai Metro starts at 8:00 AM on Sundays.
How much does registration cost?
Fees are published per distance: approximately AED 236 for 21 km, AED 210 for 15 km, AED 184 for 10 km, and AED 158 for 5 km (VAT included; an additional 5% service fee may apply). Furthermore, family members can still enjoy the atmosphere along the course even if they don’t run. Prices can change close to event day if categories sell out. Expect a range of roughly AED 158–236 depending on distance.
Which parking and road access should you plan for?
Gate Avenue visitor parking operates with the first hour free; after that, the posted tariff is AED 10 per hour, with validation options available at Gate Avenue desks. Because the start area sits inside a business district, expect temporary lane controls and brief diversions around the Gate District during wave starts. Also, consider drop-off on the periphery to avoid congestion near the pens. Parking capacity is limited.
What weather should runners expect on Sunday?
Forecasts for Sunday, 16 November indicate a clear, dry morning: around 23 °C at 05:00, near 22 °C by 07:00, and climbing to about 27–29 °C by late morning. Consequently, you should arrive hydrated and manage your pacing as temperatures rise after 9:00 AM. Additionally, sunrise conditions favor light layers before the gun. Expect clear, dry, mid-20s conditions at sunrise.
Who is this event suitable for and what should you bring?
The atmosphere suits seasoned athletes and first-timers alike, with 5 km and 10 km options for developing runners (children may join the 5 km under category rules). Spectators can follow along from Gate Avenue and nearby plazas (family-friendly, suitable for couples, solo). Pack a cap, a handheld bottle or soft-flask, and electrolyte tabs; then, add sunscreen for the back half of the morning. Carry your ID and bib to avoid delays.
Which travel plan works from nearby Emirates?
From Sharjah or Ajman, aim to leave by 04:30 AM via E11 to reach DIFC by 05:15 AM; from Abu Dhabi, depart around 03:00–03:15 AM to arrive by 04:45–05:00 AM. Additionally, set your drop-off slightly outside the immediate Gate District and walk in to bypass bottlenecks. After the event, you can use the Metro once it opens at 8:00 AM or book a pickup along Al Mustaqbal Street. Plan buffer time for possible diversions.
Warnings and tips
Sunday, 16 November should be mostly sunny with cool-warm progression: roughly 22–23 °C at sunrise, nudging toward 28–29 °C late morning; choose a light, sweat-wicking top, breathable shorts, and consider a handheld bottle for the first 5–10 km. Traffic builds near DIFC from 05:00 AM, and it increases again after 09:00 AM as brunch venues open; taxis and ride-hailing remain the smartest choice before dawn, while Metro becomes an option after 8:00 AM. Parking exists at Gate Avenue, yet arrive early if you must drive, and keep small bills or a card ready for machines. Ticket and door prices are approximately and subject to change on short notice. Arrive before 05:00 AM to secure access and parking.
According to insights frequently compiled by the editorial team at www.few.ae, runners who pair an early taxi drop-off with a simple pre-race hydration plan enjoy the smoothest start and the most relaxed post-race exit.
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