Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon 2026

The Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon takes place in Aqaba, Jordan, on Friday 4 December 2026. Runners follow a flat, scenic route around the Ayla Oasis development and along the Red Sea waterfront, finishing at the Aqaba Flagpole. It suits club runners chasing a good time, first-time half marathoners and anyone looking for a winter-sun race weekend.

About the Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon

Jordan's official calendar of events describes the race as a showcase of the country's sports tourism on the Red Sea coast. The route passes waterfront views, modern architecture and planned promenades, and finishes at the Aqaba Flagpole, which the listing says is the fifth largest in the world. Updates and the ticket link are on the official event listing.

The listing highlights perfect winter weather, with temperatures in the low 20s Celsius, which makes early December an attractive time to race by the sea.

the Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon 2026 dates and venue

The Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon 2026 date is Friday 4 December 2026. The route runs around Ayla Oasis on Aqaba's northern waterfront and finishes at the Aqaba Flagpole near the old town and Aqaba Fort. Start times and race-pack collection are announced to registered runners.

Because the race is on a Friday, many runners arrive on Thursday and stay for the weekend to dive or visit Wadi Rum.

How to get to Aqaba for the Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon

King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) is a short drive from central Aqaba and Ayla. Many travellers fly into Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) near Amman and continue by road or on a domestic flight to Aqaba.

Taxis and private transfers connect the airport with hotels. On race morning, roads near the course may be closed, so plan to walk or use organised shuttles. Check the official entry requirements for Jordan before travel.

When planning a trip to Aqaba for the Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon, confirm the dates on the official website again shortly before booking non-refundable services. Organisers sometimes adjust start times, venues or programmes, and their official channels are always the most reliable source.

Where to stay

Ayla has waterfront hotels and apartments close to the start area. The city centre and the seafront corniche are convenient for the finish line, while the South Beach area suits travellers who want diving and quieter beaches.

December is a busy season in Aqaba, so book early for the race weekend.

For groups, ask hotels about rooming lists, early check-in and late check-out around the Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon, and keep a short list of alternative properties in case the first choice is full.

Planning a group trip to the Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon

A group tour to the Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon is easy to package as a long weekend: race on Friday, then add a Red Sea boat trip, a Wadi Rum jeep tour or a day in Petra.

• Registration: runners sign up through the official ticket link.
• Packs: plan arrival so the group can collect race packs before race day.
• Extras: offer non-runners snorkelling, diving or desert excursions.

Agencies building a group tour to the Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon should confirm flights first, as seats on popular routes can sell out around event dates. Hold group fares early, collect passport details in good time and share a clear day-by-day itinerary with travellers before departure.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon 2026?

The race is on Friday 4 December 2026 in Aqaba, Jordan, according to Jordan's official events calendar.

Where does the race finish?

The official listing says the race finishes at the Aqaba Flagpole, after a route around Ayla Oasis and along the waterfront.

Is the course flat?

Yes. The organiser describes flat, scenic routes around Ayla Oasis with waterfront views, which makes it suitable for runners aiming for a personal best.

Which airport is closest?

King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) in Aqaba is closest. Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman offers more international flights.

What is the weather like in early December?

The organiser expects winter temperatures in the low 20s Celsius, which is comfortable for running. Evenings can be cooler.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to the Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.