Record 5,500+ runners register for Dhiraagu Road Race 2026 as event gains World Athletics ranking status

Registration for the Dhiraagu Maldives Road Race (DMRR) 2026 closed with a record more than 5,500 runners registered, making it the largest and most popular running event held in the Maldives. The event initially opened 4,000 slots, but additional places were added due to strong public demand. This is the first time so many people have taken part in a run held in the Maldives, the article said. This year's run is particularly significant in Maldivian running history because DMRR 2026 is now officially recognised as a World Athletics Ranking Competition. With this change, the results achieved by runners in the race will be included in the international ranking and will count as officially recognised achievements at world level. The run is scheduled for Friday, 20 November 2026 at Hulhumale' Central Park. It will include half marathon, 10-kilometre and 5-kilometre categories, as well as newly introduced team categories. The event is open to experienced runners and beginners. Its main aim is to encourage healthy lifestyle habits, promote running for good health, and create a united and inclusive environment for everyone to take part. As in other years, this year's run is being held under Dhiraagu's corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme and is dedicated to child safety. The event will provide opportunities for civil society organisations (NGOs) working in the area of children's rights and safety to raise public awareness and fundraise. DMRR is the first international run in the Maldives to be listed in the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) World Running Calendar, with a World Athletics Satisfied Race route. Runners of different ages from across the Maldives, as well as runners from different countries, will compete.