Abu Dhabi to Dubai: 100 km Arqoub Al Sadeera race to conclude 10th Al Salam Cycling Championship
Dh700,000 prize fund boosts competitive spirit
DUBAI – 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 Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai will organise the Arqoub Al Sadeera Race tomorrow.
This final event of the 10th Al Salam Cycling Championship spans 100 km from Al Samha in Abu Dhabi to Saih Al Salam in Dubai, making it the largest cycling race of its kind in the country.
Arqoub Al Sadeera holds historical significance as the location of the 18 February 1968 meeting between the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. During this meeting, the two leaders laid the foundations of the UAE Union and charted a vision for the nation’s future.
Al Salam Cycling Championship
Omair bin Juma Al Falasi, Director-General of the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee, highlighted that the race reflects the UAE’s commitment to promoting sports participation and healthy lifestyles. “Cycling in the UAE is witnessing unprecedented growth,” he said, “supported by a diverse calendar of races that enhance the skills of national cyclists and celebrate their achievements.”
The Championship has fostered cooperation among national institutions and sporting bodies, which has contributed to the development of the sport and the country’s advanced cycling infrastructure. This enables riders to traverse seamlessly between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, showcasing state-of-the-art facilities along the route.
Prize fund
The Higher Organising Committee approved a total prize fund of Dh700,000 for the Arqoub Al Sadeera Race, the highest globally for a local road cycling event. The race features four main categories: professional men and club riders, amateur men, professional women and club riders, and amateur women. Age-group categories are also recognised, encouraging cyclists from 18 to over 66 to compete.
Collaborative efforts
The race is organised with support from key entities including the Ministry of Interior, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Dubai Sports Council, Abu Dhabi Police, Dubai Police, Hamdan bin Mohammed Heritage Center, and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation. Strategic partners include Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority, Government of Dubai Media Office, Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award, Dubai Sports Channel, UAE Cycling Federation, and Dubai Film.
Season highlights
The Arqoub Al Sadeera Race concludes a season packed with events. The Championship began last December with the Safety and Security race for Emirati cyclists, followed by the HH The Ruler of Dubai Court Race from HH The Ruler of Dubai Court to Al Marmoom.
The season also included the Women’s Race in Al Marmoom, the Women’s Desert Race, and the General Desert Race for professional men, amateurs, and women, highlighting both domestic and international talent.