Dubai’s Al Salam Cycling Championship will return for its 11th edition from December 27, 2026, to March 14, 2027, featuring five races and a total prize pool of Dhs 3.695 million.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the championship expects to attract around 1,900 male and female cyclists, with events for amateurs, professionals, clubs and national teams.
Al Salam Cycling Championship 2026–2027: Race dates
The season begins on December 27 with the Emirati Men’s Amateur Race, which is expected to attract more than 250 cyclists and offers Dhs 1 million in prize money.
The Elite Race follows on January 17, 2027, with more than 350 participants expected, including amateur and professional cyclists, club riders, national teams and teams representing Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The race also offers Dhs 1 million in prizes.
The Women’s Race takes place on January 24, bringing together more than 200 amateur and professional cyclists to compete for Dhs 460,000.
On January 31, the Open Desert Race will feature four categories: men’s amateurs, men’s professionals, women’s amateurs and women’s professionals. Organisers expect around 500 participants, with Dhs 535,000 in prize money available.
The championship concludes on March 14 with the Arqoub Al Sadeera Race. Expected to attract more than 600 cyclists, it will be the largest race of the season by participant numbers, offering Dhs 700,000 in prizes.
Who can participate in Dubai’s cycling championship?
The championship caters to a broad range of competitors, from Emirati amateur cyclists to professional riders, clubs and national teams. International participation is expected across several events, with dedicated opportunities for women and a race focused on Emirati men’s amateur cyclists.
Organisers say the championship aims to encourage community participation in sport, promote active lifestyles and strengthen Dubai’s position as a destination for major sporting events.
The event is organised in collaboration with partners including Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Sports Council and the UAE Cycling Federation.
Cyclists interested in participating should watch for further announcements on registration, eligibility, race routes and event arrangements, as these details have not yet been provided in the announcement.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
