Ahead of the start of Dubai Ride on Sheikh Zayed Road on November 2, 2025. DUBAI MEDIA OFFICE

The UAE’s busiest highway turned into a massive cycling track on Sunday morning (November 2) as cyclists took part in the sixth edition of Dubai Ride, one of the flagship events of the Dubai Fitness Challenge. The free community event once again transformed Sheikh Zayed Road into a cyclist’s paradise, giving participants a rare chance to pedal past Dubai’s most famous landmarks — including the Museum of the Future, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Opera, and Dubai Water Canal. The event kicked off at 6:15am, with early risers joining at dawn for the popular Speed Laps on the 12km Sheikh Zayed Road Route, which began as early as 5am for competitive cyclists seeking a high-intensity challenge. Two main routes were available for participants this year. The 12km Sheikh Zayed Road Route started from Dubai World Trade Centre and ended at Safa Park. This route included the exhilarating Dubai Canal Bridge climb and was recommended for seasoned cyclists. Meanwhile, the 4km Downtown Family Route featured a flat, family-friendly loop around Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Opera. As part of safety measures, Sheikh Zayed Road remains to vehicles between Trade Centre Roundabout and Al Hadiqa Bridge until 10am. Other road closures included Lower Financial Centre Street (between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road) and a one-way section of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard. To accommodate the large turnout, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced extended Dubai Metro hours until midnight, ensuring smooth transportation for participants and spectators. The annual Dubai Ride is a highlight of the month-long Dubai Fitness Challenge, which encourages residents and visitors to commit to 30 minutes of physical activity for 30 days. Since its inception, the event has grown into one of the region’s biggest community fitness celebrations, bringing together families, professionals, and cycling enthusiasts of all ages. ICA/Expat Media
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