Dubai will host the Desert Races for Women and Men this weekend as part of the tenth season of the Al Salam Cycling Championship, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The races will take place on Saturday, 31 January, and Sunday, 1 February, at Al Marmoom Reserve in Saih Al Salam.
The Championship’s Higher Organising Committee has prepared a challenging mountain bike course, requiring participants to navigate varied terrain, obstacles, and physically demanding conditions. Safety measures include mandatory helmets, cycling goggles, and necessary equipment. The total prize pool of AED455,000 is the largest ever offered for desert cycling races worldwide.
Saturday’s race for women will cover 20 km and feature two categories: Emirati women and an open international category. Sunday’s men’s race will span 52 km and include two special challenges with additional cash prizes.
His Excellency Omair bin Juma Al Falasi, Director General of the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai, highlighted that the Championship promotes inclusivity and high-level competition. He noted that desert cycling demands exceptional endurance and quick decision-making, producing some of the most exciting races in the region.
The desert races are the fourth and fifth events of the season, following the Security and Safety race for Emirati cyclists, the Ruler of Dubai Court Race, and last week’s women’s race featuring elite international competitors.
The Championship also includes the Al Salam Cycling Championship Photography Contest, in collaboration with the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award, with winners to be announced at the season’s conclusion.
Strategic partners supporting the event include Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Sports Council, the Government of Dubai Media Office, Dubai Sports Channel, the UAE Cycling Federation, and Dubai Film.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
