27th Eastern International Race receives Gold Label in Al-Khobar
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The 27th Eastern International Race is set to return to Al-Khobar Corniche on December 13, with organizers confirming that all operational plans, security coordination and athlete services are in place. This year’s program features a one-mile race, a five-kilometer event and an internationally certified half marathon, supported by a 1.6 million SAR prize fund.
At a media briefing in Al-Khobar, H.E. Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Turki said the race has reached a new phase in its development, earning World Athletics Gold Label Road Race accreditation and placing the event within the top tier of global road competitions. Last year’s five-kilometer race ranked 7th worldwide, while the half marathon placed 22nd.
Organizers reported more than 360 applications from elite runners, narrowing the field to 130 athletes expected to compete. The committee stated that the level of interest from international professionals indicates strong potential for record-breaking times on the course.
Coordination with the Governorate, municipality, security agencies and technical teams has been underway for months, with organizers seeking to deliver smooth logistics, reliable safety coverage and high-quality support for athletes and spectators.
Media Committee Chairman Hussain Al-Baloushi said the event has evolved into a multi-day sports gathering, shaped over the course of six months of joint work. He added that the race now serves both as a competitive platform and a cultural meeting point, drawing communities from across the Eastern Province.
Executive Director Abdullah Al-Joud outlined long-term ambitions to elevate the event from Gold to Platinum status and to elevate its global ranking from 7th to the top three. He described the race as a central part of the Eastern Province’s sporting identity.
A documentary presented at the conference traced the event’s 30-year history, including its founding under the late Prince Ahmed bin Fahd and its continuation under the patronage of HRH Prince Saud bin Nayef. More than 200,000 runners have taken part across its three-decade run.
Race kits issued to participants will include maps, athlete bags, medals and performance shirts. Cultural shows and traditional performances will take place in the race village, adding to the program surrounding the competition.
