Dubai in talks to become international go-to destination for cycling

Dubai is reviewing its blueprint for becoming the leading destination for major international cycling events.

The initiative comes as David Lappartient, President of the Union Cycliste Internationale, visited the Dubai Sports Council to enhance ties.

The meeting was led by His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, in the presence of Mattar Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, at the Council’s headquarters.

During the meeting, Lappartient discussed a potential tie-up between Dubai Sports Council and UCI to enhance the existing cycling ecosystem.

#WamVideo | David Lappartient, President of Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) expresses his appreciation for the extensive support cycling enjoys in Dubai, and the growth of cycling in the country.https://t.co/5Qb38lVY8U pic.twitter.com/RkGStDXAgn

— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) September 14, 2021

In addition to international recognition for sporting events, the Emirate is keen on becoming a bicycle-friendly city and obtaining the ‘UCI Bike City’ label.

Currently, Dubai has 36 dedicated bike tracks spanning over 460 km.

By 2026, the creation of new infrastructure will extend the cycling track network to 750 km.

In the past, Dubai has seen international cycling events like the UAE Tour, the Dubai Women’s Tour, Gran Fondo, HERO Dubai Hatta and the Mountainbike Eliminator World Cup.

Data compiled by the Dubai Media office reveals that about 13 per cent of Dubai’s cyclists come from the 50-plus age group, 28 per cent from the 40-49 age group, 40 per cent from the 30-39 age group, and 19 per cent from the age group of 29 and below.