Jebel Sifah – Framed by the majestic Hajar Mountains and the crystal waters of the Arabian Sea, Jebel Sifah marked a defining moment in Oman’s sporting and lifestyle landscape with the successful conclusion of the first edition of the Sifah Ultra Marathon. Held on 19 December, the event welcomed over 1,500 runners of all ages and abilities, transforming the integrated destination into a vibrant hub of movement, community, and endurance.
Just 40 minutes from Muscat, Jebel Sifah by Orascom Development and Omran, is a destination where sports, nature, and integrated living come together effortlessly, with its vibrant marina, 9-hole golf course, diverse real estate offerings, advanced infrastructure, and premium hospitality experiences. Its proven track record in hosting global events, from international sport fishing competitions to major endurance races, firmly positions it, as Oman’s leading hub for outdoor adventure, tourism, and future-ready investment.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sports & Youth and organized by Sabco Sports, the marathon carved through coastal trails, mountain slopes, and traditional villages, offering runners an immersive journey through Oman’s natural and cultural heritage. It also featured a diverse race programme, from the ambitious 50 KM Ultra to the 10 KM, 5 KM, Fun Run, and Kids Race, designed to promote inclusive participation and inspire a culture of active, healthy living.
To elevate the experience of visitors, the race village in Sifah’s vibrant Marina, offered runners, families, and visitors, a blend of live entertainment, diverse culinary delights, and children’s activities tailored for all ages.
On this occasion, Engineer Ashraf Nessim, CEO of Muriya, developer of award-winning destinations Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah, said:
“Hosting the first edition of the Sifah Ultra Marathon represents a meaningful contribution to the Sultanate’s national priorities in advancing sports tourism, youth engagement, wellness, and economic diversification, in alignment with Oman Vision 2040. It also reaffirms Muriya’s long-term commitment to positioning our destinations as leading hubs for sustainable, experience-driven tourism and high-value investment opportunities.”
Mohammed Ahmer al Amri, General Manager of Sports activities at the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth commented:
“The Sifah Ultra Marathon supports our mission to promote physical activity, enhance community engagement, and support sustainable sports development across the Sultanate. It is a proud moment for Oman’s growing sports scene in alignment of the Sultante’s 2040 vision”
Reflecting on the delivery and impact of the event, Ali al Ajmi, General Manager of Sabco Sports, added:
“Witnessing athletes, families, and communities united across Jebel Sifah’s breathtaking trails was a powerful reminder of sport’s ability to inspire and connect. The resounding success of this inaugural edition is demonstration to Oman’s growing reputation as a destination for world-class endurance events. We extend our deepest thanks to our partners and participants who helped bring this to life.”
In the challenging 50 KM Ultra race, Abdulaziz Hunaida from Morocco won first place in the men’s category, followed by Nader Abdallah from Sudan in second place, and Navil from Eastern Europe securing third place. In the women’s race, Kenya’s Falida Massanga led the first place, with Tatina Fidasifa from Eastern Europe securing second place, and Kenya’s Broods Masky rounding out the podium in third.
The race brought together a remarkable diversity of talent, with participants representing over 36 nationalities , a testament to the event’s international appeal and inclusive spirit.
Strong performances were also recorded across the 10 KM and 5 KM races, with podium finishes in both men’s and women’s categories, while the Kids Race celebrated emerging young talent, recognising top finishers in both boys’ and girls’ divisions.
The event concluded with an awards ceremony honouring winners across all categories, while also recognising the contributions of volunteers, medical teams, operational staff, and partners who ensured the seamless and safe delivery of the marathon.
Building on the success of its first edition, the Jebel Sifah Ultra Marathon has laid a strong foundation for future races, reinforcing Oman’s commitment to active lifestyles, inclusive communities, and sports-led tourism through world-class events set within extraordinary natural environments.
