Oman will host the first Middle East Ironman 70.3 Team Championship in Dhofar Governorate on October 24, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen its position as a regional hub for sports tourism.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism announced the event on Tuesday in partnership with the Ironman Group and Middle East Global Events. The championship will be held alongside the Experience Oman Ironman 70.3 Dhofar 2026 race, which also features individual competitions.
The triathlon includes a 1.9-kilometre swim, a 90-kilometre cycling stage and a 21.1-kilometre run. Individual athletes complete all three disciplines, while team participants divide the stages before crossing the finish line together.
Haitham bin Mohammed Al Ghassani, Director General of Tourism Promotion at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, said the championship marks a significant step in promoting Oman as an international destination for sports tourism. He added that the event supports the country’s tourism strategy by attracting more visitors, boosting economic activity and advancing the goals of Oman Vision 2040.
Talal bin Hamid Al Khasaibi, Director General of Heritage and Tourism in Dhofar, said the championship will showcase the governorate’s natural attractions and cultural heritage while increasing demand for hotels and tourism services.
Mohammed bin Khalfan Al Obaidani, Chief Executive of Middle East International Events Foundation, said the team format would give more athletes and amateur competitors the opportunity to take part in an international Ironman event while encouraging organisations to field teams.
Ashraf Naseem, Chief Executive of Muriya, said hosting Ironman events at Hawana Salalah for a fifth consecutive year reflects the success of the partnership in positioning Dhofar as a leading destination for sports tourism.
