Kuwait’s only internationally classified marathon returns on 28 November

Final designs approved for winners’ medals and participants’ sportswear for the new edition This year’s medals celebrate Kuwait’s heritage, nature, landmarks, and national identity

As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting community well-being and supporting sustainable social initiatives, Gulf Bank, in partnership with Suffix, the sports event management company, announced the opening of early bird registration for the 12th edition of the Gulf Bank 642 Marathon. Kuwait’s only internationally classified marathon is set to return on 28 November 2026, bringing together runners, families, athletes, beginners, people with special needs, and the wider community for one of the country’s most anticipated annual sporting events.

Over the years, the Gulf Bank 642 Marathon has grown beyond a race. It has become a community platform that encourages healthier lifestyles, celebrates inclusion, supports local talent, and brings people together in the heart of Kuwait City. Each edition reflects the Bank’s belief that sport plays an important role in strengthening communities, enhancing physical and mental well-being, and inspiring individuals and families to adopt more active lifestyles.

Gulf Bank renewed its annual invitation to athletes, running enthusiasts, beginners, families, people with special needs, and community members from Kuwait and abroad to take part in this landmark event. Registration is now open through the official marathon website: www.gulfbank642marathon.com

also available on: https://suffix.events/en/events/details/857

As preparations continue for this year’s edition, Suffix, in collaboration with Gulf Bank, has approved the final designs for the winners’ medals across the different race categories, along with the official sportswear that will be distributed to participants ahead of the marathon. The designs reflect the values at the heart of the event, including national pride, community engagement, heritage preservation, and environmental sustainability.

The medals have become one of the most distinctive elements of the Gulf Bank 642 Marathon experience. More than a symbol of completion, they have evolved into collectible pieces that runners look forward to each year, with every edition telling a new story inspired by Kuwait. The medals this year were designed to highlight Kuwait’s identity, heritage, and landscapes, giving participants a meaningful keepsake that reflects both their achievement and their connection to the homeland.

Each medal tells a distinct story. The 5K medal celebrates Kuwait’s deep connection to the sea, featuring its marine life and a traditional dhow that reflects the nation’s rich maritime heritage. The 10K medal highlights Gulf Bank’s historic headquarters, an architectural landmark located in the heart of Kuwait City. The 21K medal captures the beauty and serenity of the Kuwaiti desert, featuring the falcon as a symbol of pride, strength, vision, and resilience deeply rooted in the region’s heritage. Finally, the 42K medal celebrates Kuwait’s national identity, showcasing the iconic Kuwait Towers alongside the Kuwaiti flag.

A Marathon for the Whole Community

The previous edition of the Gulf Bank 642 Marathon recorded exceptional participation, attracting more than 10,000 runners from different age groups, fitness levels, and nationalities, including around 5,000 non-Kuwaiti participants. These figures reflect the growing position of the marathon as an inclusive community event that welcomes everyone, from professional runners and regular athletes to first-time participants, families, and people with special needs.

The event also continues to reflect the diversity of Kuwait’s community. Women represented 41% of total participants compared to 59% men, while the youngest participant was 10 years old and the oldest was 85. The participation of people with special needs further reinforces the marathon’s role as an accessible and inclusive event built around community spirit, determination, and shared achievement.

Gulf Bank’s continued support for the marathon comes in line with its commitment to strengthening the culture of sports and active living in Kuwait. The Bank views sport as a key contributor to sustainable development, given its ability to improve well-being, build discipline, encourage positive habits, and create meaningful connections across society.

This commitment is particularly important as communities continue to face growing lifestyle-related health challenges, including diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. By encouraging individuals and families to make physical activity part of their daily lives, Gulf Bank aims to contribute to building a healthier, more active, and more resilient society.

The marathon also creates wider value for the community by supporting youth and national initiatives. Through its partnership with Suffix, Gulf Bank continues to provide a platform for local capabilities, small and medium-sized enterprises, volunteers, and Kuwaiti sporting talent. The event also helps support professional runners and promising athletes by giving them greater exposure and encouraging them to represent Kuwait in international marathons.

Participation Categories

The Gulf Bank 642 Marathon offers race categories suitable for different fitness levels and abilities, making the event accessible to experienced runners, first-time participants, families, and people with special needs. The marathon includes four categories: the 5K walk or run, the 10K run, the 21K half marathon, and the 42K full marathon.

Participants aged 11 and above may register for the 5K race, while those aged 16 and above may take part in the 10K race. Participation in the half marathon is open to those aged 18 and above.