Aquaman Open Water Dubai is set to return to Kite Beach on November 7 and 8, 2026, bringing together swimmers of all levels for one of the UAE’s most popular open-water swimming events. The competition was originally planned for March 2026 but has now been officially moved to November, with organisers prioritising athlete safety and overall event conditions.
The two-day event will feature a vibrant race village and professionally marked sea courses designed to accommodate everyone from young beginners to elite endurance swimmers. Registration remains open for the updated dates, with participants able to secure their slots through the official Aquaman Race Hub and event platforms.
Race Categories for All Skill Levels
The Aquaman Open Water Dubai event offers a wide range of distances to suit different ages and abilities. The longest challenge is the 10KM race, open to experienced swimmers aged 16 and above, while the 5KM category is available for participants aged 14 and older who are comfortable with long-distance endurance swimming.
For those seeking a shorter competitive distance, the 2KM race is open to swimmers aged 12 and above. The 1KM Aquafins category adds a unique twist, allowing participants aged 10 and older to compete using swim fins in a fast-paced sprint format.
Younger swimmers can take part in the 500M Kids Race, designed for children aged 7 and above as a safe introduction to open-water swimming. Teams can also join the 3x500M relay, which allows groups to compete in male, female or mixed formats, adding a social and strategic element to the competition.
Safety Rules and Event Guidelines
Safety remains a key priority for the organisers. All participants are required to wear safety buoys, ensuring visibility throughout the course and enhancing swimmer security in open water conditions. This rule applies across all race categories.
In addition, wetsuits are not permitted for the main race divisions, in line with event regulations designed to maintain fair competition standards and consistent race conditions.
Participants are encouraged to review their race timings and category details carefully before the event, as courses are professionally marked and designed to ensure smooth navigation across all distances.
With its scenic Kite Beach location, structured race formats and inclusive categories, Aquaman Open Water Dubai continues to position itself as a key fixture in the UAE’s endurance sports calendar, attracting both local and international swimming communities.
