Ethiopian athletes make history at 2025 Dubai Marathon
Debutant Bute Gemechu stuns with a world-leading 2:04:50
In a thrilling show of endurance and determination, Ethiopian runners dominated the 2025 Dubai Marathon, claiming the top spots in both the men’s and women’s races.
This 24th edition of the marathon saw over 17,000 participants from around the globe compete across distances ranging from the 4 km Fun Run to the 42.195 km main event.
The Dubai Marathon, the oldest in the region, remains a favourite among elite and amateur runners alike.
Bute Gemechu’s stunning debut
Making his marathon debut, 23-year-old Ethiopian Bute Gemechu stole the spotlight by clocking a world-leading time of 2:04:50. Gemechu, who broke away from the leading pack at the 36 km mark, became the fifth consecutive debutant to win Dubai’s men’s marathon.
Gemechu’s compatriots Berehanu Tsegu and Shifera Tamru rounded off the all-Ethiopian podium, finishing with times of 2:05:14 and 2:05:28, respectively.
Speaking after his win, Gemechu said, “Because it was my first marathon, I didn’t know what to expect. But at 36 km, I realised I could win.”
Women’s race ends in nail-biting finish
The women’s event delivered drama to the very last metre. Ethiopia’s Bedatu Hirpa surged ahead in the final moments to claim victory in 2:18:27, a world-leading time and a personal best.
Fellow Ethiopian Dera Dida, who led for much of the race, suffered stomach cramps in the final stretch, finishing just four seconds behind at 2:18:31.
Despite her disappointment, Dida achieved a personal best, while Tigist Girma completed the Ethiopian sweep with a time of 2:20:47.
Hirpa, reflecting on her victory, remarked, “I was concentrating on my own race and didn’t realise Dera had problems. I always thought I could win.”
Elite and amateur runners gather in Dubai
Under the patronage of Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai Marathon featured athletes from over 120 countries. Sheikh Mansoor crowned the winners, accompanied by dignitaries from the Dubai Sports Council and marathon organisers.
The men’s 10 km race was won by Morocco’s Yassir Ech Chaachoui in 28:20, while Ethiopian runners Gemene Tunku and Chaltu Diriba dominated the women’s 10 km with times of 31:03 and 31:03, respectively. Great Britain’s Eilish McColgan secured third place with 31:14.
Prize money
Both marathon champions, Gemechu and Hirpa, walked away with $80,000 each, while the runners-up and third-place finishers earned $40,000 and $20,000, respectively. “After this success in Dubai, I will now set my eyes on the Boston Marathon,” Gemechu shared.
Supported by the Dubai Sports Council and global brands like adidas, XIAOMI, and Bisleri, the event showcased Dubai’s commitment to sports and fitness. The marathon’s scenic Umm Suqeim Street route, lined with enthusiastic spectators, added to the vibrant atmosphere.