Dubai will host the L’Etape Dubai cycling race, a prestigious event presented by the Tour de France, on February 2, 2025. Organized by Belton and Be Cool Events in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council and sponsored by Škoda Cars, this race is renowned among amateur cyclists worldwide.
The L’Etape Dubai race brings the legacy and excitement of the Tour de France, the world’s oldest cycling race, to the UAE. The inaugural edition was announced at the Dubai Sports Council’s headquarters and is expected to be a significant addition to the UAE’s growing cycling calendar. The announcement was attended by key figures, including Saeed Hareb, Secretary-General of the Dubai Sports Council, Nasser Aman Al Rahma, Assistant Secretary-General, and Maher Julfar, Executive Vice President of DWTC.
As part of the announcement, the official L’Etape race jersey, featuring iconic Dubai landmarks, was unveiled. The Secretary-General also received a specimen of the Tour de France’s official jersey and the Hungarian team’s jersey, presented by representatives of the Hungarian Chamber of Commerce. Over 50 cyclists from Hungary are confirmed to participate in the 2025 race.
The event will span two days, starting on February 1 with a Kids Race at 9 am over distances of 300m and 3km, depending on the participants’ abilities.
A Family Ride will follow at 9:30 am over a 20km distance. The main races on February 2 will include the 110km L’Etape Dubai and a 60km “The Ride,” both starting at 6 am.
Dubai joins a prestigious list of global cities hosting the L’Etape race, which began in France in 1993. The race first expanded beyond France in 2015, gradually making its way to new cities across different continents, eventually arriving in the Middle East through the Dubai event. This race is expected to attract thousands of cycling enthusiasts from the UAE and around the world.
Ali Omar Al Balooshi, Director of Sports Events at the Dubai Sports Council, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are pleased to organize this major global race in Dubai, one of the most important cities that supports sports in general and cycling in particular.” An event of this stature is nothing new for Dubai, considering the numerous international sporting events we host in cooperation with various international federations and organizers.”
He added, “Cycling enjoys great interest and support from our wise leadership in Dubai, and this is due to the many benefits of cycling in terms of health, vitality, and an active community.
We further benefit from organizing such important events, keeping sports tourism and the sports industry in mind.”
The Government of Dubai has recently announced the extension of cycling tracks in the Hatta area, adding over 53km to the existing cycling infrastructure. These tracks complement other cycling facilities across Dubai, including Al Marmoom Reserve, beaches, parks, and various other destinations.
Ali Omar further noted, “We will carefully select the racetracks to allow thousands of participants to enjoy cycling in the most beautiful areas and destinations across Dubai.” These will include various unique cultural, tourist, and residential landmarks, making participation in the race a memorable experience.”
Registration for the races will proceed in three stages, with riders having until September 30 to confirm for The Ride and until December 31 for The Race.