40 thousand participants in the launch of the “Dubai Cycling Challenge”

In the first major event within the “Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025”, the “Dubai Cycling Challenge” was launched yesterday morning in Dubai, sponsored by “DB World”, in an exceptional atmosphere that witnessed the transformation of Sheikh Zayed Road into one of the most famous cycling paths in the world, with a record participation of 40,327 participants in its sixth session, in a living embodiment of the values ​​of interconnectedness and community participation.

The “Dubai Cycling Challenge” was an exciting start to a month full of activity and movement, as participants of all ages and fitness levels set out on their bikes on paths that passed through some of Dubai’s most famous landmarks, such as the Museum of the Future, Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai Water Canal.

The “Dubai Cycling Challenge 2025” witnessed wide participation that extended from families who had their first experience on the Downtown Dubai track, to professional athletes who tested the limits of their abilities in speed rounds, embodying the actual meaning of the slogan of the current tournament, “Find your challenge,” and confirming that the concepts of fitness and physical activity are available to everyone, regardless of their levels and experiences.

This year, participants chose between two distinct experiences suitable for all levels: The 4-kilometre family track in downtown Dubai provided an enjoyable experience for families and children on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, with stunning views of Dubai Opera and Burj Khalifa, to be an inspiring start for new bike enthusiasts.

As for those looking for a longer challenge, they experienced the 12-kilometre route on Sheikh Zayed Road, which provided a unique driving trip in the heart of the city, passing through the Museum of the Future, the Dubai Water Canal, and the distinctive architectural landmarks that paint the panoramic view of Dubai.

The distinctive entertainment segments added great energy and enthusiasm to the atmosphere of the event. On the 4-kilometre family track, riders were welcomed by Dubai’s beloved characters Modhesh and Dana, while the “Ride and Style” station provided an enjoyable experience for participants, allowing them to decorate their bikes with colored ribbons and cloth balls.

As for the 12-kilometre track, the crowds interacted with broadcaster Kitty Overy, who encouraged the participants and ignited their enthusiasm, while DJ Sean and DJ Cool Cats, stars of the “Untold Dubai” festival, presented live musical performances that gave the track an atmosphere full of rhythm and activity.

The event also witnessed the participation of a number of prominent international figures in the fields of fitness, health and entertainment, including Kayla Itsense, Gary Brica, Lena Deeb, and former sports star Bakary Sagna, who participated in the challenge.

The events began with a high dose of activity and excitement with the speed rounds of the Dubai Cycling Challenge, where the professional riders began their day on the 12-kilometre track at dawn, maintaining an average speed of more than 30 kilometers per hour along Sheikh Zayed Road, in a distinguished start that preceded the main event.

For his part, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, Saeed Hareb, said: “Seeing more than 40,000 participants gathered this morning was an inspiring moment in what makes Dubai a truly exceptional city, and in the Year of Community in the UAE, the Dubai Cycling Challenge, sponsored by DB World, embodies the role of sports and fitness in uniting people from different backgrounds and levels. The distinguished participation we have witnessed, increasing year after year, reflects our community’s true commitment to adopting a healthy and active lifestyle. “Seeing families, friends and individuals of all abilities sharing the road together perfectly embodies the goal we strive for in Dubai: a unified, healthy and active city.”

For his part, Executive Director of the Dubai Festivals and Retail Corporation, Ahmed Al Khaja, said: “It was an exceptional start for (Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025). The sight of thousands of cyclists cruising Sheikh Zayed Road this morning underscores Dubai and its community’s passion for active living. The Dubai Cycling Challenge, sponsored by DB World, continues to inspire our community, transforming Dubai’s famous roads into a celebration of movement, health and community engagement. This major event confirms that fitness gains its true meaning when it is practiced collectively, and that the enthusiasm, energy and passion we witnessed will inspire the city’s residents and visitors to continue exercising throughout the month of November.”

Dubai is preparing for three major upcoming events: the Dubai Rowing Challenge, sponsored by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, which returns to Hatta Dam on November 8 and 9, and the Dubai Running Challenge, sponsored by Mai Dubai, on November 23, in addition to the all-new event “Dubai Yoga”, which will be held on November 30 at Zabeel Park.

---

German racer: Dubai is a global city that breathes life and sports

German racer, Mark Toney, one of the participants in the Dubai Cycling Challenge, expressed his pride in participating for the third year in a row in the event, which has become a sporting and societal symbol that reflects the image of Dubai as a global city that breathes life and sports.

He stressed that the race goes beyond being a competitive occasion, to embody a message of peace and tolerance emanating from the heart of Dubai to the world, in an atmosphere that brings together more than 200 nationalities, all of whom live in safety and happiness on the land of the Emirates.

He told Emirates Today: “Every year, the Dubai Cycling Challenge proves that Dubai is not only a city for organizing events, but rather a global platform that inspires millions to make sport a way of life.”

He pointed out: “The value of Dubai is evident in its ability to combine modernity and humanity. It is a vibrant city that opens its doors to everyone. During the race, you see faces of different nationalities and cultures sharing the same path and goal, and this scene in itself reflects Dubai’s tolerant and open spirit to the world.”

He explained, “Organizing such a challenge in the heart of the city, amidst skyscrapers and vital areas, gives participants a unique experience that combines the splendor of sports and the beauty of the place. Dubai has made its streets a stage for joy and positive energy, in a way that you cannot find in any other city.” He concluded by saying: “Dubai has become a global center that embraces athletes of all levels, from professionals to amateurs, and gives everyone the opportunity to have an exceptional experience that combines competition and enjoyment, and this is what makes it at the forefront of cities that use sports as a bridge for human communication.”

Saeed Hareb:

• The distinguished participation we have witnessed, increasing year after year, reflects our community’s true commitment to adopting a healthy and active lifestyle.

Ahmed Al Khaja:

• An exceptional launch for the Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025, confirming Dubai and its community’s passion for active living.