Al Ula

Desert Run

CONCEPT EVENT TIMELINE

CONCEPT

concept2

A new format of trail running in the ideal location: Al Ula, Saudi Arabia.

The Al Ula Desert Run offers not just a race, but an all-encompassing adventure that blends the thrill of outdoor exploration with the chance to experience the history and traditions of the local community.

Overall, the unique selling point of this event which spans across 4 days is the opportunity to combine the thrill of trail running with the chance to experience the rich culture and heritage of the Al Ula region in a way that few other events can offer.

concept4

THE AL ULA DESERT RUN, BEING AN INTERNATIONAL EVENT, HAS THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE FEATURED AS THE FINAL STAGE OF A GLOBAL CIRCUIT THAT EXPLORES THE UNTOUCHED TERRITORIES OF COUNTRIES FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE.

This is a running event that can enhance the most dynamic and energetic aspects of any area. With a format that is suitable for all abilities, the Al Ula Desert Run will provide all participants with an unforgettable experience of a unique race in an adventurous place. With RCS Sports & Events' extensive media network and expertise in sports, global exposure is guaranteed, ensuring that the Al Ula Desert Run reaches an international audience.

concept

Al Ula Desert Run is a trail running event that aims to showcase the ancient beauty of Saudi Arabia’s Al Ula region.

The race will take place over four days, with a total of 140km. The final day of the event will also include multiple race distances. The course will take runners through the stunning landscapes of Al Ula, including the striking red sandstone canyons, the vast desert expanses, and the towering rock formations.

The event will also highlight the rich cultural heritage of the region, with visits to ancient sites such as the Hegra Archaeological Site as well as more modern structures such as the Maraya Theater.

4 day event - 35km each day

Proposed weekdays: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday

concept-3

The Al Ula Desert Run is not just about running; it’s an immersive experience that combines adventure, culture, and heritage.

Participants will have the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of the Al Ula region, as well as meet like-minded individuals and experience a week of unforgettable memories.

The Al Ula Desert Run is a holistic experience that offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and heritage. It’s an opportunity to discover the ancient beauty of Saudi Arabia and to connect with a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for outdoor exploration and cultural discovery.

MORE THAN JUST RUNNING

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The Al Ula Desert Run is not just a one-day event, it's a multi-day adventure that includes camping under the stars in the heart of the Al Ula region. Participants will spend four days exploring the stunning landscapes, immersing themselves in the local culture, and challenging themselves on the race-course.

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After a full day of running and exploring, participants will gather around the campfire for a traditional dinner and cultural performances. They will have the opportunity to connect with fellow runners from around the world, exchange stories, and share in the unique experience of camping in the desert.

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The camping experience adds an extra dimension to the Al Ula Desert Run, offering participants a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life and reconnect with nature. It’s a chance to experience the region in a truly authentic way, under the vast expanse of the night sky.

Event

timeline

PROPOSED LAUNCH DATES:

June 2023

PROPOSED WEEK-DAYS:

WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY,
FRIDAY, SATURDAY

PROPOSED EVENT DATES:

MARCH 2024

PROPOSED EVENT DAY ITINERARY:

The event will feature a 30-40 km route per day across the Al Ula desert and landscapes for a total of 4 days.

Each day of the event will start at sunrise, and participants will set up and stay in a campsite for the duration of the event.

Goals &

OBJECTIVES

A unique and unforgettable way to discover and promote the beauties of Al Ula through sport and running.

To promote the Al Ula region as a unique and attractive tourist destination for adventure and cultural experiences.

To encourage the local community’s participation and engagement in sports activities and to promote a healthy lifestyle.

To drive tourism to Al Ula through running experiences such as this event.

To raise awareness of the importance of preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

DEMOGRAPHICS & MARKET

RESEARCH

TARGET AUDIENCE

Trail runners and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.

Adventure and culture-seeking tourists.

Local residents and communities interested in sports and cultural activities.

TARGET AUDIENCE AGE: 20-50. However, the event welcomes a global participation. Runners can participate in groups with friends or family members as well as solo.

While the event is open to participants of all skill levels, most runners have some experience with trail running or other outdoor endurance sports. The event also tends to attract adventure and culture-seeking tourists who are interested in experiencing the unique beauty and heritage of the Al Ula region.

The event will offer shorter distances on the final day to those with less trail running experience however willing to participate in the event.

RCS MEDIAGROUP

RCS MEDIAGROUP INTERNATIONAL MEDIA NETWORK

RCS is one of the world’s main multimedia publishing groups. RCS is active in all publishing sectors – from newspapers to magazines, from TV to new media – as well as a leader in organization of popular sport events like Giro d’Italia and is among the leaders in terms of advertising, sales and distribution in Italy.

A full integrated news coverage network. 5 national newspapers (including brands such as La Gazzetta dello Sport and Marca, leader in sport journalism in Italy and Spain. 20 magazines in 236 countries.

RCS is listed on the Italian Stock Exchange and has a significant presence especially through leading newspapers and magazines: SPAIN, PORTUGAL, USA, SOUTH AMERICA, UAE, CHINA.

RCS SPORTS & EVENTS

RCS Sports & Events was founded in 1989 as an independent company to promote professional sports and manage Italy’s biggest cycling and mass participation events.

RCS Sports & Events has grown to a top tier international sports organizer with a portfolio of sports rights that include the Giro d’Italia and Milano Marathon.

In 2014 RCS Sports and Events DMCC was established in the United Arab Emirates as a branch o f RCS Sports & Events to service the Middle East region.

RCS SPORTS & EVENTS

PORTFOLIO

ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon
Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon
Milano Marathon
Roma-Ostia Half Marathon
The Color Run
Virgin Active Urban Obstacle Race