Dubai Discusses Becoming an International Cycling Destination

H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, met David Lappartient, President of Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), to discuss the UAE and Dubai’s position as a leading destination for major international cycling events.

The two sides discussed potential future cooperation between Dubai Sports Council and UCI as well as Dubai’s bid to become a bicycle-friendly city and its efforts to obtain the ‘UCI Bike City’ label, which recognises cities and regions that not only host major UCI cycling events but also demonstrate outstanding commitment to Cycling for All.

The meeting reviewed Dubai’s outstanding cycling infrastructure, which includes 36 dedicated cycling tracks and paths currently spanning over 460 km.

#WamVideo | David Lappartient, President of Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) expresses his appreciation for the extensive support cycling enjoys in Dubai, and the growth of cycling in the country.https://t.co/5Qb38lVY8U pic.twitter.com/RkGStDXAgn

— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) September 14, 2021

 By 2026, the creation of new infrastructure will extend the cycling track network to 750 km.

The cycling tracks will be built t to the highest international standards and spread across the emirate, from Jumeirah to Hatta and Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, Cycling events held in Dubai under the banner of UCI include the UAE Tour, the Dubai Women’s Tour, Gran Fondo, HERO Dubai Hatta and the Mountainbike Eliminator World Cup Lappartient.

Annually, Dubai hosts 30 local and community cycling events for different segments, including three dedicated for women.

About 13 percent of Dubai’s cyclists come from the 50-plus age group, 28 percent from the 40-49 age group, 40 percent from the 30-39 age group, and 19 percent from the age group of 29 and below.