Dubai is gearing up for a high-stakes sporting showdown as the 10th edition of the Al Salam Cycling Championship reaches its peak. On Sunday, January 18, 2026, the “H.H. The Ruler’s Court Race for Elite Men” will see the region’s strongest cyclists compete for a massive Dh1 million cash prize pool. Organized by the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai, this 200km race marks a decade of success under the theme “Ten Years of Achievements and Success,” solidifying its status as one of the world’s most lucrative community cycling events.
The Route: From Historic Bur Dubai to Al Marmoom
The Elite Men’s race is celebrated for its unique 200km course that showcases Dubai’s blend of heritage and modernity.
- Start: 12:45 PM at the H.H. Ruler’s Court in Al Fahidi, Bur Dubai.
- The Journey: Cyclists will traverse the heart of the city, passing major landmarks.
- Finish: The scenic Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve in Saih Al Salam.
According to Omair bin Juma Al Falasi, Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee, the race distance has been designed to test the endurance of both Elite UAE Nationals and international professional athletes.
RTA Traffic Alert: Road Closures for January 18
To ensure the safety of the peloton, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced phased road closures starting from 12:45 PM. Traffic will be suspended for approximately 10–15 minutes at each section as the riders pass through.
Major Affected Roads:
- Al Mina Street and Jumeirah Street
- Al Wasl Road and Al Hadiqa Road
- Al Meydan Road and Al Manara Street
- Expo Road (E77) and Al Qudra Road
- Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street
Commuters are advised to use alternative routes like Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311) or Emirates Road (E611) to avoid delays.
A Decade of Growth and Inclusivity
Since its inception, the Al Salam Cycling Championship has attracted over 5,000 riders. This year’s 10th edition has expanded to five races, including the Women’s Race (Jan 25) and the Desert Race (Feb 1). The championship isn’t just about professional glory; it promotes cycling as a lifestyle, aligning with Dubai’s vision to become the world’s most active city.
Prize Money and Recognition
The Dh1 million prize fund for the Elite race is one of the highest in the amateur-professional hybrid circuit. Beyond the cash, participants will receive:
- Commemorative 10th-anniversary medals.
- Digital certificates and real-time timing tracking.
- Photography Competition: In partnership with HIPA, professional photographers will be documenting the race to capture Dubai’s landscape and the spirit of the athletes.
What’s Next in the Championship?
The excitement doesn’t end tomorrow. Following the Al Salam Cycling Championship Elite race, the focus will shift to the Women’s Race on January 25, which will cover a 90km track in Al Qudra. This highlights the event’s commitment to diversity and the empowerment of female athletes in the UAE’s sporting ecosystem.
