The UAE Tour 2026, the region’s premier UCI WorldTour race, is set to commence this Tuesday in the Al Dhafra Region. This highly anticipated event will feature 145 elite riders from 21 international teams, highlighting the growing prominence of cycling in the Middle East.
Organized by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and backed by AD Ports Group, the race spans seven stages and covers a total of 1,004.2 kilometers, concluding on February 22. The event promises to be an exciting showcase of endurance and skill as top cyclists compete over diverse terrains.
Recently, a press conference was held at the Colnago Store on Al Hudayriyat Island, featuring key figures from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, including Dr. Ahmed Abdullah Al Qubaisi, along with numerous partners, sponsors, and five leading cyclists. Participants expressed their excitement and readiness for the upcoming competition.
Notable riders such as Remco Evenepoel from Red Bull Bora Hansgrohe, Isaac del Toro of UAE Team XRG, and Jonathan Milan from Lidl Trek shared their goals for the tour. Each of them brings considerable talent to the event, with del Toro recognized for his promising future after winning the Tour de l’Avenir 2023.
The UAE Tour’s stages will feature a variety of routes that include both mountainous terrains and desert landscapes, as well as urban roads. This year’s race will pass through new landmarks and picturesque locations across the UAE, enriching the experience for both participants and spectators alike. The opening stage will kick off from the Madinat Zayed Council in Al Dhafra Region, progressing to Liwa Fort over a distance of 144 kilometers, and is sponsored by Bin Hamoodah Auto.
As the cyclists prepare to tackle the challenges ahead, the UAE Tour continues to foster a vibrant cycling culture in the Middle East, drawing attention from fans and sports enthusiasts globally.