Drivers across the capital are being urged to plan ahead as major Abu Dhabi road closures are set to take place this week, linked to the start of the UAE Tour Women. The internationally recognised cycling event will see elite women riders compete across multiple emirates, with Abu Dhabi playing a central role in the route.
The event runs from Thursday February 5 to Sunday February 8, covering hundreds of kilometres and several high-profile locations. While the tour is a major sporting highlight for the UAE, it will also bring temporary but significant traffic disruption, particularly on Saturday February 7.
Why Roads Are Closing Across Abu Dhabi
The UAE Tour Women brings together some of the world’s top professional cyclists, with teams racing across urban roads, highways, and scenic coastal stretches. Due to the scale of the event and the speed at which riders travel, roads must be fully secured and closed in phases to ensure safety.
Each stage of the tour spans long distances, meaning closures will not be limited to a single area. Instead, roads will shut progressively as the cyclists move through the city, reopening once the race convoy has passed.
Authorities have confirmed that closures will be carefully managed and temporary, with reopening times scheduled the same afternoon.
Saturday Will See the Biggest Traffic Impact
The most extensive Abu Dhabi road closures will take place on Saturday February 7, when cyclists make their way through a large section of the capital. The stage begins at TeamLab Phenomena and ends at Abu Dhabi Breakwater, cutting across key residential, commercial, and leisure districts.
Areas affected by the race route include Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, Al Marina, Reem Island, and Al Maryah Island. Drivers heading toward the city centre, islands, or key bridges should expect delays and diversions throughout the afternoon.
Closures will begin from 1.30pm and will be implemented in phases. Roads are expected to reopen gradually from approximately 3.45pm, depending on the movement of the race.
Full Breakdown of Abu Dhabi Road Closures and Times
The following locations will be closed temporarily on Saturday February 7. All times are approximate and subject to change based on race conditions.
Abu Dhabi TeamLab Phenomena – 1:10pm
Exit to Yas Island – 1:30pm
Yas North – 1:30pm
Yas Mall – 1:30pm
Yas Marina Circuit – 1:30pm
Yas Tunnel – 1:50pm
Jazeerat Um An Nar Street – 1:50pm
Exit to Khalifa City – 1:50pm
Masdar – 2:00pm
Khalifa City – 2:00pm
Intersection E20 – 2:20pm
Exit to Al Bateen – 2:30pm
Al Bateen – 2:30pm
Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street – 2:40pm
Mussaffah Bridge – 2:40pm
Zayed Sports City – 2:45pm
Umm Yifenah Bridge – 2:45pm
Umm Yifenah Island – 2:45pm
Al Reem Island – 2:45pm
Al Maryah Island – 3:15pm
Qasr Al Hosn – 3:20pm
Mawgab Street – 3:35pm
Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street – 3:35pm
Shakhbout Bin Sultan Street – 3:35pm
Al Bateen – 3:45pm
Abu Dhabi Breakwater – 3:45pm
Motorists are advised to avoid these areas during the closure window where possible and follow official diversion signage.
Earlier Stages and Upcoming Routes
The UAE Tour Women begins on Thursday February 5, with the opening stage running between Al Mirfa and Madinat Zayed. While this stage will not directly affect Abu Dhabi city traffic, drivers in the western region should still expect managed road closures along the route.
On Friday February 6, the race moves to Dubai, before returning to the capital the following day for the highly anticipated Abu Dhabi stage.
The final stage takes place on Sunday February 8, covering a demanding 156-kilometre route from Al Ain to Jebel Hafeet. This mountainous finish is considered one of the most challenging and iconic climbs in professional cycling.
What Drivers Should Do to Prepare
Residents and commuters in Abu Dhabi are strongly encouraged to plan journeys in advance during the event. Leaving earlier than usual, using alternative routes, and avoiding non-essential travel in affected areas can help reduce frustration.
Public transport users should also stay alert for temporary route changes or delays, particularly for buses operating near the race route.
Navigation apps may not immediately reflect real-time closures, so drivers should rely on official announcements and roadside signage where possible.
A Major Moment for Women’s Sport in the UAE
Now in its fourth edition, the UAE Tour Women continues to grow in stature, attracting top international teams and global attention. The wider UAE Tour, now in its eighth year, has become a cornerstone of the region’s sporting calendar.
The Abu Dhabi Sports Council has also confirmed that the men’s UAE Tour will take place from February 16 to February 22. While specific road closures for that event have not yet been announced, similar traffic measures are expected.
For now, motorists are advised to stay informed, be patient, and remember that these temporary disruptions support a world-class sporting event being hosted on Abu Dhabi’s streets.
With careful planning, drivers can avoid delays while the city takes centre stage in international cycling.
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