In a historic display of gratitude and endurance, Sadique Ahamed, a 36-year-old Kerala expat living in Abu Dhabi, set a Guinness World Record during the 2026 London Marathon. On Sunday, 26 April 2026, Ahamed completed the 42.2km race in traditional Emirati attire—the Kandura—achieving the fastest marathon time ever recorded in the garment. Carrying the UAE flag across the finish line, Ahamed dedicated his achievement as a tribute to the country he has called home since 2012.
Key Development
Ahamed completed the grueling course in 3 hours, 19 minutes, and 20 seconds, comfortably securing the record for the “Fastest marathon in traditional Emirati dress (male).” Despite the aerodynamic challenges and limited mobility offered by the long white robe, he maintained a remarkable pace, averaging roughly 4:43 minutes per kilometer. To prepare for the feat, Ahamed underwent three months of rigorous training specifically wearing the Kandura to adapt to the weight and movement of the fabric.
Upon crossing the finish line at The Mall, Ahamed was presented with an official Guinness World Record certificate. He later shared that the crowd’s reaction was overwhelming, with many spectators cheering “Habibi!” as they saw the UAE flag. Ahamed, who works as a fire safety professional in the oil and gas industry for ADNOC, is no stranger to themed runs; he has previously completed marathons dressed as a firefighter and in a formal business suit to promote the message that “anything is possible” with discipline.
Why It Matters
This record serves as a high-profile cultural bridge, showcasing Emirati heritage on one of the world’s most prestigious sporting stages. For the UAE’s vast expatriate community, Ahamed’s run resonates as a symbol of the deep-rooted loyalty and sense of belonging that many residents feel toward the nation. By choosing the Kandura, he transformed a personal athletic goal into a public “thank you” to the UAE for the opportunities and safety it has provided his family.
- Cultural Representation: Bringing Emirati identity to a global audience of over 60,000 runners and millions of viewers.
- Expat Loyalty: Highlighting the strong emotional bond between the UAE and its Indian expatriate community.
- Athletic Prowess: Proving that world-class times can be achieved even when hampered by non-traditional sporting gear.
- Inspiration: Encouraging others to pursue fitness regardless of their professional or cultural constraints.
Bigger Picture
Ahamed’s achievement occurred during a historic year for the London Marathon, which saw the men’s two-hour barrier broken by Sabastian Sawe (1:59:30). Amidst elite world records, Ahamed’s feat was one of 36 successful Guinness World Record attempts on the day, ranging from fastest runners in mascot costumes to those in traditional global dress.
His tribute aligns with the UAE’s own efforts to promote a culture of health and sportsmanship through initiatives like the Dubai Fitness Challenge and the Abu Dhabi Marathon. By receiving support from local figures—including Sheikh Hamdan bin Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan at a pre-marathon event—Ahamed’s run underscores the government’s success in integrating sports into the national identity for both citizens and residents alike.
What Happens Next
Following his return to Abu Dhabi on 29 April 2026, Ahamed has expressed his desire to continue using his platform to promote a healthy lifestyle within the corporate sector. He plans to keep the UAE flag as a central part of his future endurance challenges, continuing to “pay it forward” to the country.
The Guinness World Record will be featured in the next edition of the book, further immortalising this unique intersection of Kerala’s diaspora spirit and Emirati culture. For now, Ahamed’s story has gone viral across the Gulf, inspiring a new wave of “creative running” among the UAE’s fitness enthusiasts who see him as a symbol of perseverance and national pride.
FAQs
Who is Sadique Ahamed?
He is a 36-year-old Indian expat from Kannur, Kerala, who has lived in Abu Dhabi since 2012 and works as a fire safety professional for ADNOC.
What was his official marathon time?
He finished the 26.2-mile course in 3:19:20, setting a new Guinness World Record.
Why did he choose to run in a Kandura?
He chose the traditional Emirati dress as a tribute and a “thank you” to the UAE for the safety and opportunities provided to him and his family.
Was it difficult to run in traditional attire?
Yes, Ahamed noted that the Kandura presents challenges in terms of movement and heat, which required three months of specific training to overcome.
Has he set other records before?
While this is his first Guinness World Record, he has previously completed marathons in unconventional outfits, including a full business suit and a firefighter’s uniform.
 as a tribute to the UAE at the London Marathon.
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