The Emirates News Agency reported that AD Ports Group will empower the Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo scheduled for December 20, with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council organising the event to promote cycling across the emirate. The 150-kilometre route will start at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain and finish at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba, according to details released by the council. Organisers have planned a staggered start at 7 a.m. divided by age groups, speed levels and individual or team formats to manage the field safely. A dedicated category for Emirati riders will feature for the first time in this edition.
The Abu Dhabi Media Office figures show that last year’s edition attracted more than 1,000 male and female cyclists from 68 nationalities who competed for a total prize pool of AED 2 million. That sum was distributed across 364 prizes, an increase of 44 awards from the prior year, reflecting the event’s steady expansion. The upcoming race is expected to maintain a similar prize structure while drawing even broader international participation from amateur and professional riders alike.
According to a statement from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the course consists of long straight stretches with gentle rises and light inclines that suit both elite competitors and enthusiastic amateurs. Five water stations will be placed along the route to support participant safety and comfort throughout the distance. The council has also prepared an official race guide covering regulations, starting procedures and hydration points for all registered riders.
His Excellency Talal Mustafa Al Hashemi, Executive Director of the Events Sector at the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, affirmed that the race forms a key pillar in the Emirate’s journey to become a global destination for cycling. He indicated that the fourth edition will see a significant increase in prize money which will reach AED 2 million distributed across 364 winners, reflecting the event’s continuing growth and development. The event aligns with broader initiatives to foster community health and active lifestyles in the UAE.
A race village will open in the days leading up to December 20 at the Sheikh Zayed Festival, offering interactive activities, family zones and partner exhibits for spectators and participants, the organising committee said. Sponsors for the 2026 edition include Tissot, Mubadala and several other prominent entities supporting the logistics and execution. Registration remains open through official channels with early details available on the Bike Abu Dhabi platform.
The Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo forms part of an annual calendar that has helped position the emirate as a regional hub for cycling, with past editions consistently exceeding 1,000 finishers from dozens of countries. Abu Dhabi Sports Council data from previous races highlights the event’s role in encouraging local clubs and international teams to compete side by side. Organisers continue to refine the format based on feedback to enhance both the competitive and community aspects of the gathering.
