For this week’s Run Club Partner Spotlight, we are proud to feature Super Sports ABRaS Athletics – one of Dubai’s longest-standing and most competitive running communities. Founded in 2006, ABRaS began as a small group of dedicated endurance runners looking for structured training and a supportive environment. Today, it has grown into a thriving club known for its performance focus, inclusive spirit and a community culture that brings together runners of all ages and abilities.
In this interview, ABRaS shares what makes their club unique, how they foster connection and progression, and why the Dubai running scene continues to inspire them. From junior athletes to seasoned marathoners, ABRaS is a community built on dedication, camaraderie and a shared love for pushing limits.
Let’s get into their story.
Tell us a bit about your club – when did it start and what inspired its creation?
Super Sports ABRaS Athletics was established in 2006 with the goal of bringing together Dubai’s growing community of endurance runners. What began as a small group of like-minded athletes looking for structured training has evolved into one of the city’s most active and competitive running clubs, known for its friendly atmosphere and performance-driven spirit.
What makes your run club unique?
Probably the most competitive training group out there with multiple Sub2h50m marathon runners. We are community driven with a Junior group (9-16y od). We train year-round, adapting to Dubai’s challenging weather while maintaining a strong focus on both performance and camaraderie. We’re not just about chasing personal bests — we’re about supporting each other through every kilometre, whether it’s a local 5k or an overseas marathon.
How would you describe your community in three words?
Dedicated. Supportive. Competitive.
What’s a typical run session like with your club?
A typical session starts with a light warmup, then group briefing to explain the session and share news, followed by drills, and then a structured workout tailored to the racing season. In winter, sessions can be pretty intense and long (8x1k), while summer runs are slightly shorter. On track nights, we all train together, but runners are grouped by ability to ensure everyone is challenged appropriately.
How many members do you currently have, and what distances or types of running do you focus on?
We have around 150 active members including the junior group. We are a diverse group in terms of levels, nationalities and goals with runners of all levels training for distances from 5k to the marathon or ultras. Our programmes are designed around the UAE racing calendar but also include support for major international events like the major international marathons (+Valencia, Athens, Two Oceans, etc)
What does the running community in Dubai mean to you?
It’s the heartbeat of what we do. Dubai’s running scene is incredibly inclusive and energetic, and it’s inspiring to see runners from all backgrounds come together before sunrise to train, compete, and celebrate the sport. Our junior group is also a way for us to give back and support the sport long term.
How has your club helped bring runners together – especially new or first-time runners?
We welcome all runners who can comfortably run 8 km or longer, and our sessions are designed to be flexible so everyone can progress at their own pace. Our coaches and members make sure new runners feel part of the team from day one, offering advice, encouragement, and plenty of post-run motivation.
Do you have any special traditions, post-run rituals or memorable community events?
Absolutely! Beyond the weekly training, we host regular social events — from post-race breakfasts to themed gatherings like Oktoberfest or our end of the season social where we recognize our members with a number of awards. We also celebrate milestones, birthdays, and race achievements together. These moments off the track are just as important as the sessions themselves.
What role do you think running plays in building a stronger, healthier local community?
Running brings people together in a uniquely positive way — it crosses cultural, professional, and social boundaries. It teaches resilience, discipline, and teamwork. In a city as fast-paced as Dubai, running helps people slow down, reconnect, and strengthen both body and mind.
How do you encourage inclusivity within your club – from beginners to seasoned athletes?
Our structure ensures everyone trains together, following the same session format but at their own pace. It’s common to see experienced marathoners running side by side with newcomers — the shared effort builds a strong sense of unity and belonging.
What motivates your members to keep showing up and running – even on the tough days?
Accountability, community, and the shared pursuit of progress. Knowing that your teammates are waiting for you at the track no matter how hot or humid it becomes — keeps motivation high. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of finishing a tough session together. Our group photos post-track session are a testament to that.
What’s been one of your proudest moments as a club?
Every time an ABRaS runner crosses a finish line, it’s a proud moment. But some standouts include our consistent presence of ABRaS athletes on podiums across the UAE. Seeing juniors develop and grow within the club is also incredibly rewarding.
Do you have a favourite local race or route in the UAE?
We love the Super Sports races, especially those at the Dubai Autodrome and Meydan, as they’re perfectly organized and part of our local calendar. The Dubai Creek Striders half and the RAK Half are another favourite, one as probably the oldest running event in UAE and the other for its fast WR course.
How do you think events like The Run Show can help strengthen the running community in the UAE?
Events like The Run Show bring the entire running ecosystem together — clubs, brands, coaches, and athletes — to share knowledge, stories, and inspiration. They can play a vital role in growing the sport and encouraging more people to lace up and join in.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of joining a run club for the first time?
Just show up. Don’t worry about pace or experience — consistency and community will take care of the rest. You’ll improve faster than you expect, make great friends, and discover a new side of running (and of yourself).
How do you see running culture evolving in the UAE over the next few years?
The UAE running scene is booming — with more races, clubs, and participation each year. We see it continuing to grow in professionalism, inclusivity, and diversity, especially with the increasing focus on health and wellness and Government initiative such as the 30x30 fitness challenge.
What’s next for your club – any big goals, events or collaborations on the horizon?
We’re focused on continuing to develop our members and support them in achieving their goals — from PBs to first marathons. The 2025–26 Club Championships are set to be our most competitive yet, and we’re also exploring new collaborations to keep training innovative, challenging, and fun. We also have a new social media manager who is doing an excellent work in raising our public profile as a competitive running club.
Super Sports ABRaS Athletics represents the heart of what makes Dubai’s running community so special – dedication, diversity and a commitment to helping every runner reach their potential. Their focus on performance, inclusivity and long-term development showcases the powerful role a club can play in bringing people together and strengthening the local endurance scene.
We are proud to have ABRaS as a Run Show partner and even prouder to spotlight the work they do on and off the track. A huge thank you to the ABRaS team for sharing their journey, values and vision for the future.
Stay tuned for more Run Club Partner Spotlights as we continue to highlight the communities shaping the UAE running culture – one session, one story and one runner at a time.