Under the directives and patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Desert Race—the third stage of the ninth Al Salam Cycling Championship—is scheduled to take place on Sunday, 9 February 2025.
Organized by the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai, this championship is recognized as the world’s largest community cycling event in terms of diversity and prize value.
Race Details
His Excellency Omair bin Jumaa Al Falasi, Director General of the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee of the Al Salam Cycling Championship, announced that all preparations for the race are complete. Set within the Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve, the Desert Race offers a challenging course, guiding cyclists through sand dunes and rocky trails.
Participants, both UAE nationals and residents, can choose between two routes: Sarouq Al Hadid (52 km) and Al Ashoosh (57 km). The race also features a timed sprint segment at Areeqib Brashi.
Safety Measures
The Supreme Organizing Committee emphasizes strict adherence to safety standards. Cyclists are required to wear helmets, protective eyewear, and hydration packs, and must use mountain bikes equipped with front and rear lights.
His Excellency Omair bin Jumaa Al Falasi stated: “Each race is meticulously designed to foster competition and reward excellence among cyclists. This year, we have chosen two routes that traverse significant and challenging terrains. A total of 44 financial prizes will be awarded to the top ten finishers in both the 52 km and 57 km races. Additionally, winners of the sprint challenge will be honored, with six Emiratis and six residents—three under 40 and three over 40—recognized in each of the two sprint races.”
“With the support of our partners, we have ensured the highest safety standards along the race route while reinforcing adherence to desert cycling regulations. The Al Salam Championship aims to promote sports to foster a healthier, more active society and leverage Dubai’s extensive cycling infrastructure, positioning the city as a global cycling-friendly destination.”
Upcoming Events
The championship will conclude with the Women’s Race on 16 February 2025, at the Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve. This final event will feature two races: a 107 km race for Emirati cyclists and a 136 km elite race open to all resident female athletes and members of the GCC Cycling Federation.
The ninth edition of the Al Salam Cycling Championship commenced in December with the Sword of Honour race, celebrating the graduation of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum from the UK’s Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. This event, dedicated to Emirati amateur cyclists, was followed by the Ruler’s Court Elite Men’s Cycling Race on 19 January 2025, which covered a 193 km route starting from the historic Al Fahidi district and passing through several of Dubai’s iconic landmarks.
The championship is organized in collaboration with strategic partners, including Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Sports Channel, the UAE Cycling Federation (General Referee), and the Dubai Film Company.
About Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve
Established in January 2018, the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is the first unfenced nature conservation reserve in the United Arab Emirates, covering approximately 10% of Dubai’s total land area. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including 26 species of reptiles, nine species of mammals, and over 360 bird species, of which 158 are migratory. The reserve also features extensive man-made desert wetlands, such as the Al Qudra Lakes.
Conclusion
The Al Salam Cycling Championship’s Desert Race not only showcases the UAE’s commitment to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle but also highlights the nation’s dedication to environmental conservation. As cyclists navigate the challenging terrains of the Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve, the event underscores the harmonious balance between athletic excellence and nature preservation.
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