Meet Abdulla Bin Hajar AlShehhi, the first Emirati to complete the Abbott World Marathon Majors, and one of the most inspiring voices in running across the UAE. He's joining us on stage at The Run Show to talk transformation, purpose, and what the sport can teach you about life

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?

My name is Abdulla Bin Hajar AlShehhi. I was born and raised in Ras Al Khaimah, and I am an Emirati marathon runner and content creator. Professionally, I work in the energy sector, but a big part of my life is dedicated to running, endurance, and inspiring others through sport. I am proud to be the first Emirati to complete the original Abbott World Marathon Majors, and through my platform, I share not just races and results, but the deeper story behind running, discipline, transformation, and purpose.

How did you get into running?

Running started as part of a personal transformation. Years ago, I wanted to change my life both physically and mentally, and at the time, I was carrying an extra 30 kg. Running became that turning point. What started as a way to improve my health grew into a passion, then a lifestyle, and eventually a mission. Over time, I realized running was never just about fitness. It became a tool for growth, resilience, and self discovery.

What does your current training look like?

My training changes depending on the season and the race I am preparing for. Right now, I am building toward the Cape Town Marathon in late May. Generally, my routine includes a mix of easy runs, long runs, speed sessions, and recovery. I focus on training with purpose, not just volume. Strength, mobility, recovery, and nutrition are all key parts of my routine. At this stage, consistency and smart training matter more to me than anything else, because longevity is just as important as performance.

What is the talk you are giving at The Run Show and why does it matter to runners?

My talk is about how running can transform your life far beyond race results. We all focus on times, goals, and personal bests, but the real value of running is what it teaches us about patience, discipline, identity, and mental strength. This matters because every runner, whether beginner or experienced, reaches a point where running becomes bigger than just training. It starts shaping how you approach life itself.

What is the race or achievement you are most proud of and why?

Completing the original Abbott World Marathon Majors is one of the achievements I am most proud of. Not just because of the physical challenge, but because of what it represents, years of commitment, setbacks, sacrifice, and belief. Being the first Emirati to complete that journey made it even more meaningful. It was not just personal. It carried a message that big dreams are possible, and that representation matters.

What is your must have piece of running gear or tech?

My GPS sports watch is something I rely on every day. It helps me track effort, structure training, and stay disciplined with pacing. But beyond tech, the most important thing is having the right running shoes for the session. The right shoe can completely change your experience, especially when you are training consistently.

What would you tell a runner who is just starting out?

Start small, stay patient, and do not compare your chapter one to someone else’s chapter twenty. In the beginning, running is not about speed. It is about building the habit. Focus on consistency, enjoy the process, and trust that progress will come. Every runner starts somewhere, and the most important thing is to keep showing up.

What are you working on or focused on at the moment?

Right now, I am focused on expanding my impact both within running and beyond it. That includes racing, creating content, and speaking. I am passionate about using my journey to inspire others, especially those who feel like big goals are out of reach. This phase is about growth, purpose, and helping move the running culture forward in our region.

One thing most people do not know about you?

Most people see the results, medals, races, achievements, but what they do not always see is where it started. I did not come from a background of natural talent in sport. My journey began with a decision to change my life. That transformation is what defines me far more than any finish line.