The Higher Organising Committee of the Al Salam Cycling Championship unveiled plans for the event’s 11th edition 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 series, recognised as one of the largest amateur cycling competitions globally, will open with the UAE Nationals Amateur Race on December 27, 2026, which targets 250 riders and carries AED 1 million in prize money. Subsequent races will cater to elite competitors, professionals, club teams and women, reflecting the championship’s ongoing expansion in scope and appeal.
According to the committee, the full programme runs until March 14, 2027, and includes the Elite Race on January 17, 2027, expecting participation from 350 cyclists with another AED 1 million in prizes. The total prize fund for all five races reaches AED 3.695 million, as the organising body seeks to draw both local and international entrants across amateur and professional categories. This structure builds directly on the framework that has defined the championship since its launch.
The Emirates News Agency reported that the preceding 10th edition attracted record crowds, including 367 cyclists from 48 nationalities and 33 teams in the final Arqoub Al Sadeera Race that spanned 100 kilometres from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. That concluding event saw organisers boost the prize pool from AED 700,000 to AED 800,000 amid strong demand, with victories claimed across professional and amateur divisions for both men and women. Such figures underscore the championship’s rising stature within the regional sports calendar.
Official data from the Al Salam Championship website places average annual participation above 1,000 riders since its 2017 inception, encompassing Emirati nationals, GCC athletes and international competitors. Events routinely traverse the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, utilising dedicated cycling tracks that highlight Dubai’s desert terrain while promoting fitness and community involvement. The UAE Cycling Federation serves as general supervisor, coordinating with partners including Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority to maintain safety and operational standards.
A review of prior seasons by the organising committee shows consistent growth in female participation and the integration of thematic elements such as safety awareness into specific races. The 10th edition, held under the slogan ‘Ten Years of Achievements and Success,’ incorporated four headline events that drew teams from more than 40 countries at various stages. These elements have helped position the championship as a platform that extends beyond competition to encourage broader adoption of cycling as a lifestyle.
The Higher Organising Committee noted that the 11th edition will continue to emphasise organisational development alongside competitive intensity to sustain its status as a flagship community and sporting occasion. Preparations include refined routes and enhanced support services aimed at accommodating the projected 1,900 total participants across all races. Details on remaining race dates and specific categories will be released in coordination with affiliated bodies in the coming weeks.
