Dubai's Sheikh Zayed Road to be transformed into a cycling track for event

Cyclists will be able to ride down Sheikh Zayed Road for the first time if they take part in Dubai Ride on November 20. Courtesy: Dubai Media Office

Sheikh Zayed Road will temporarily be transformed into a track for the city’s newest cycling event, Dubai Ride, this month.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, said the non-competitive, free, community event would held as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge on November 20.

Cyclists of all abilities are invited to join and ride down the city's busiest main road, which will be closed to traffic.

Participants can choose between two distinct routes; a 4 kilometre family ride and a 15km open ride.

The 4km family-friendly fun ride is open to participants aged five and above and will take riders around Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard.

The 15km route, created for cycling enthusiasts aged 13 or older, will go past Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Dubai Canal and along both sides of Sheikh Zayed Road, which be closed to traffic from Al Meydan Road to the roundabout at the World Trade Centre.

Sheikh Hamdan said the event aimed to encourage cycling among the emirate's residents "to enhance our health and well-being, or promote environmentally friendly transport in our communities."
It will be the first time people are allowed to cycle down a section of the 14-lane motorway.

Cyclists must be able to cycle a minimum of 4km, bring their own bike and helmet and register to participate at dubairide.com.

Speed limits, closely monitored by pace cars, will be set to ensure safety.

They will also ensure cyclists follow social distancing rules.

The event is free but participants are invited to support Education Uninterrupted, a nationwide fundraising campaign that aims to help pupils affected by Covid-19, with donations.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid cycles around Dubai