Dubai Prepares for 10th Al Salam Cycling Championship 2026 Celebration
The Al Salam Cycling Championship, the world’s largest community cycling race known for its diversity and high prize value, is ready to celebrate its 10th anniversary in grand style.
This year’s edition will take place under the theme “Ten Years of Achievements and Success”, highlighting a decade of endurance, inclusivity, and community spirit.
The event will again be hosted inside the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, the UAE’s largest nature reserve, offering participants and spectators a unique racing experience surrounded by Dubai’s stunning desert beauty.
A Major Sporting Event in Dubai’s Calendar
Over the past decade, the Al Salam Cycling Championship has grown into one of Dubai’s most important sporting events. It is not just a cycling race — it is a community celebration that brings together people of all backgrounds, promoting sports, fitness, and wellbeing.
The 10th edition will feature four major races, each designed for a different group of riders:
- UAE Nationals Amateur Race – December 28, 2025
- Elite Race – January 18, 2026
- Women’s Race – January 25, 2026
- Desert Race – February 1, 2026
These races reflect the event’s mission — to make cycling accessible and enjoyable for everyone, whether professional athletes or community riders.
Racing Through Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
The Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is one of the most scenic racing routes in the UAE. Its natural beauty, wide-open desert views, and peaceful environment make it a perfect backdrop for this world-class cycling event.
Cyclists will ride through golden dunes, smooth roads, and protected areas filled with native wildlife. The race’s setting highlights Dubai’s balance between modern development and nature conservation.
By hosting the event in Al Marmoom, Dubai continues to promote eco-friendly sports and encourages appreciation for the UAE’s natural environment.
Promoting Sports as a Way of Life
The Al Salam Cycling Championship plays a vital role in encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle among residents and visitors. It supports Dubai’s vision to make sports part of everyday life — a way to build happiness, energy, and wellbeing.
Omair bin Juma Al Falasi, Director General of The Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Championship Committee, said the event’s 10th anniversary is a milestone that comes with greater responsibility.
“As the championship celebrates its 10th anniversary, our mission extends beyond competition. It’s about inspiring society to embrace sports as a lifestyle that promotes health, activity, and happiness,” he said.
He also noted that over the years, the championship has attracted thousands of riders from around the world, promoting diversity and inclusion.
Empowering Women Through Sports
One of the most meaningful parts of the championship is its commitment to women’s empowerment. The dedicated Women’s Race gives female athletes a platform to shine, compete, and inspire others.
The event shows Dubai’s strong belief in equality and opportunity for women in all areas, including sports. It has helped more women take part in cycling and other fitness activities, contributing to the UAE’s long-term vision of women’s empowerment.
Through these efforts, the championship has become a symbol of how sports can bring positive social change, confidence, and inspiration to future generations of women.
Strong Partnerships and Community Involvement
The championship’s success is also built on strong partnerships with leading organizations. It has worked with The Ruler’s Court of Dubai, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, and many other national institutions.
These collaborations have expanded the event’s reach and deepened its impact. For example, during Expo 2020 Dubai, a special edition of the race was organized, taking riders through Dubai’s iconic landmarks and extending to Hatta, a popular mountain destination.
Each partnership strengthens the event’s connection with the community and reflects Dubai’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and inclusion.
Bringing Art and Sport Together
In 2024, the championship partnered with the Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award (HIPA) to launch one of the largest sports photography competitions ever held in Dubai.
This collaboration encouraged photographers to capture powerful images of the races, riders, and the breathtaking landscapes of Al Marmoom. The photos highlighted the beauty of Dubai’s environment and the energy of its people.
This creative project blended art and sport, showing how both can come together to tell stories of determination, teamwork, and passion.
Ten Years of Growth and Inspiration
Celebrating ten years of success, the Al Salam Cycling Championship has evolved from a local event into a major international sporting festival. Over the years, it has welcomed thousands of cyclists from different nationalities and age groups.
Its slogan, “Ten Years of Achievements and Success,” reflects both the journey and the future goals of the championship. It celebrates the spirit of Dubai — a city that believes in ambition, health, and unity.
The championship’s organizers are focused on making the event more inclusive, ensuring that riders of all abilities and fitness levels can take part. This inclusivity reflects Dubai’s vision to make sports accessible to everyone and to build stronger social bonds through shared activities.
Exciting Surprises Await in the 2026 Edition
The organizing committee has promised new surprises for the upcoming 10th edition. These will make the event more exciting and enjoyable for both riders and spectators.
Fans can expect creative race experiences, new community events, and interactive digital engagement that will bring the spirit of cycling to a larger audience.
With wide media coverage across television, online platforms, and social media, the championship continues to attract attention from across the world. It is a proud representation of Dubai’s leadership in global sports and its growing reputation as a destination for international events.
Encouraging the Next Generation
The Al Salam Cycling Championship also focuses on inspiring the next generation of cyclists. Through its inclusive community approach, it encourages young people to stay active, disciplined, and motivated.
The event shows that cycling is not only about competition — it’s also about teamwork, friendship, and self-improvement. It helps young riders understand the importance of perseverance and fitness while enjoying the fun side of sports.
By building these habits early, Dubai is nurturing a future generation that values health, resilience, and a love for outdoor activities.
A Reflection of Dubai’s Vision
The Al Salam Cycling Championship is more than just a race. It reflects Dubai’s global vision for sports, sustainability, and innovation. It showcases how the emirate can host large-scale international events that combine modern organization with community participation.
From the calm desert roads of Al Marmoom to the city’s glowing skyline, every route tells a story of progress, determination, and unity. The event highlights Dubai’s commitment to promoting a balanced lifestyle, where people stay fit while enjoying the city’s culture and nature.
Each year, the championship attracts cyclists, families, and spectators who come together to celebrate sports, friendship, and the beauty of the UAE. It continues to inspire communities to move, connect, and achieve.
Looking Ahead to a Bright Future
As Dubai prepares for the 2026 Al Salam Cycling Championship, anticipation is high. The event will not only celebrate a decade of success but also mark a new chapter in the story of community sports in the UAE.
It stands as a symbol of the country’s continuous progress — where tradition meets innovation, and where people from all over the world come together to share the joy of cycling.
The Al Salam Cycling Championship remains one of Dubai’s proudest achievements — a reminder that with dedication, inclusivity, and vision, sport can truly unite people and inspire lasting change.
