Dubai Ride breaks records as thousands pedal towards fitter future

Dubai Ride, presented by DP World, took over Sheikh Zayed Road and Downtown Dubai on Sunday morning, in the region’s largest community cycling event.

The flagship Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) fixture saw a record turnout of 37,130 participants, offering both amateur and seasoned cyclists a unique opportunity to experience Dubai's iconic landmarks from the saddle.

This year's participants had the option of two distinct routes: a scenic 4-km family-friendly loop around Downtown Dubai, through Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard and past Dubai Opera and Burj Khalifa; or a 12-km stretch along Sheikh Zayed Road, past Burj Khalifa, Museum of the Future, and Dubai Water Canal.

The event also introduced the exhilarating Dubai Ride Speed Laps for experienced cyclists, adding a challenging edge to the morning.

The new addition saw participants push their limits and zip down the Sheikh Zayed Road route at an average pace of 30 km/h, before joining family and friends for the main event.

One of the world’s best professional triathletes, American Taylor Spivey, silver medalist in triathlon at the Paris 2024 Olympics and Safia Al Sayegh, who represented the UAE in the Paris Olympics in road cycling, joined the wider community on the 12-km course to show their shared passion for fitness.

Dubai Police supercars led the start of Dubai Ride alongside a fleet of Talabat riders.

Making the occasion all the more special was music from DJs, curated by UNTOLD Dubai, while Modesh World characters Modesh and Dana joined in on the fun on the Downtown route.

More than just a cycling event, Dubai Ride is the ultimate fusion of fitness, entertainment and fun. As part of DFC, it supports the vision of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, to transform Dubai into one of the most active cities in the world.

Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council (DSC), said, “The phenomenal success of this year’s Dubai Ride highlighted the power of our incredible community.

'The record turnout reflects our commitment to making Dubai the world’s most active city and promoting a more active lifestyle, which enhances the quality of life for participants and the entire community."