The sixth edition of the Ultra Trail Atlas Toubkal (UTAT), the most prestigious trail running race in Morocco, took place from 30 September to 4 October in the majestic High Atlas mountains in the province of Al-Haouz. The race, which brought together hundreds of participants of different nationalities, was based in the famous Oukaïmeden ski resort, near Mount Toubkal, the highest point in North Africa.
Initiated by the "Sports Nature Développement" (SND) Association in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, the Moroccan National Tourism Office (ONMT), the province of Al-Haouz, and the Royal Moroccan Federation of Sport for All (FRMST), this major sporting event is committed to the environment and sustainable development. It responds precisely to the objectives of the national tourism strategy "Vision 2020", which intends in particular to strengthen the attractiveness of Morocco for the benefit of local populations.
The first Ultra Trail on the African continent to date, the UTAT contributes to enhancing the Kingdom's landscapes and promoting good ecological practices among local populations. The race has also established itself as a leading economic player in the Oukaïmeden region. Every year, it generates direct and indirect jobs and provides work for local businesses. Thus, the UTAT significantly increases the activity of transport, accommodation, and catering professionals, thereby guaranteeing sustainable activity for guides and muleteers in the surrounding valleys.
With a distance of 105 km, this competition also includes two other events: the Atlas Marathon (42 km) and the Ikiss trip (26 km). Founded five years ago by Cyrille Simsondini and Brice Thouret, two French friends passionate about Morocco and the High Atlas mountains, the SND is at the origin of the UTAT.

