RunYAS 2026 returns to Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, 11 January 2026, with the first start listed for 7:00 AM local time. The venue address is Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and you can reach the circuit team on 800 YAS 927. If you prefer a direct line, you can also call +971 2 497 9000 during working hours. Registration is required to take part in any race category. (family-friendly, suitable for couples, suitable for solo)
Morning schedule and arrival rhythm
Because the start is early, most runners treat this as a sunrise routine rather than a full-day outing. Therefore, arriving around 6:00 AM usually gives you time for parking, warm-up, and last-minute admin. Meanwhile, the circuit environment stays easy to navigate, since the roads and signage around Yas Island are designed for big crowds. Aim to be on-site at least 60 minutes before 7:00 AM.
The four race options on the circuit
RunYAS is built around choices, so you can match the distance to your current fitness without feeling out of place. The Yas 10K uses two timed laps of the track and welcomes runners aged 16 and above, so it suits people chasing a proper benchmark. The Yas Lap covers 5.3 km and is open from age 14, which works well for first-timers who still want a “real” finish line moment. Pick your category based on comfort, not ego, because the circuit makes every distance feel special. (suitable for solo, suitable for couples)
Relay and kids races for group energy
If you want a team morning, the Yas Relay is designed for teams of three, with each runner taking a 1.8 km loop that includes the pit lane. Meanwhile, the Yas Kids races offer 1 km and 2 km options, and they are shaped for younger runners who want a safe, structured course. Because families often come with mixed ages, this format keeps everyone involved without forcing one pace for all. Kids still need a proper entry and an organised plan on the day. (family-friendly)
The event atmosphere and why people show up
This event leans into community, so it feels more like a festival morning than a silent, competitive race. Also, the organisers position it around wellness, music, and shared momentum, which helps nervous first-timers relax quickly. Moreover, the circuit setting gives you that rare “I ran on a famous track” feeling, even if you only do one lap. Expect a lively village-style vibe alongside the running.
Olympic ambassadors and the wider story
RunYAS 2026 has been promoted with Olympic ambassador energy, led by Sir Mo Farah, and it also features Emirati Olympian Maryam Al Farsi in the wider campaign. Therefore, the messaging focuses on finishing strong and showing up, rather than only chasing a time. Also, this framing tends to attract mixed ability groups, so you will see serious runners and casual joggers sharing the same start area. The best mindset here is steady effort, not speed pressure.
Entry fees and what “approximately” means here
Entry fees have been advertised in bands that depend on distance and registration phase, so you should expect differences between early and later sign-ups. In recent listings, prices have been shown from approximately 130 AED per person for the relay category up to approximately 180 AED for the 10 km category, while later phases may be higher. Therefore, it helps to lock in your category early if you want the lower window, especially for popular start groups. Treat all listed prices as approximate, because organisers can adjust fees before race day.
Where to register reliably
For most runners, the simplest approach is to register through OFFICIAL RUNYAS channels and the registration partner used for sign-ups, which is commonly PREMIER ONLINE. Also, if you register for a team relay, agree on your team details first, because mismatched entries can slow down edits later. Meanwhile, keep your confirmation handy on your phone, since it usually helps with race pack instructions and check-in updates. Use only trusted registration platforms to avoid invalid entries.
Driving and parking on Yas Island
Because Yas Island hosts multiple venues, traffic patterns can shift quickly even on a Sunday morning. Therefore, follow event signage and marshals rather than relying on the last route you used for concerts or theme parks. Also, plan your parking with a small walk in mind, since the closest bays can fill first once the 6:00 AM wave arrives. Parking capacity is limited closest to the main gates, so arrive early.
Public transport and taxi alternatives
Abu Dhabi’s public transport can work for parts of the journey, but most visitors still finish the last stretch by taxi or ride-hailing, especially at dawn. Therefore, if you stay on Yas Island, a short taxi ride is usually the calmest plan. Meanwhile, if you come from central Abu Dhabi, booking a car the night before can reduce morning friction. Pre-booking your ride can save you time at 5:30 AM.
Coming from Dubai Sharjah and nearby Emirates
From Dubai, the most common drive uses E11 toward Abu Dhabi and then the Yas Island exits, and early morning usually keeps that run smooth. However, you should still account for Darb toll rules in Abu Dhabi if your route crosses toll gates, because surprises at the boundary can spoil your timing. From Sharjah, add extra buffer time, since your drive includes both the Dubai corridor and the final Yas Island approach. For inter-emirate travel, build at least 60 to 90 minutes of buffer beyond GPS time. (suitable for solo, suitable for couples, suitable for groups)
What to bring for a 7:00 AM circuit run
Because the surface is smooth and predictable, road shoes work well, and you do not need trail gear. Also, a light layer helps before sunrise, and then you can shed it once you warm up. Moreover, bring a small snack for after you finish, since you may feel hungry once adrenaline drops. Carry a light jacket for the cool start, then switch to a breathable top.
WARNINGS AND TIPS CLOSING PARAGRAPH
Abu Dhabi’s outlook for Sunday, 11 January 2026 looks mild and slightly hazy, with daytime around 25°C and nighttime around 16°C, so the 7:00 AM start can feel cool at first and comfortable once you move. Therefore, dress in light layers, bring water for before and after, and plan your parking early because Yas Island roads can tighten as the start approaches. Also, taxis and ride-hailing help if you want to skip parking pressure, while drivers should leave extra time and follow on-site directions near the circuit. Entry fees and any add-ons can change, so treat prices as approximately in AED and register through OFFICIAL RUNYAS channels or PREMIER ONLINE for the safest path. Make your registration early, because category slots can fill closer to race week. Notes like these follow the same practical, on-the-ground mindset often used by the editor at www.few.ae.
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