GDRFA Dubai hosts cycling event to mark World Bicycle Day

Dubai: In line with its institutional vision to promote a sustainable lifestyle, and in conjunction with World Bicycle Day — celebrated annually on June 3 — the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) – Dubai organised a cycling event at Mushrif National Park. The event brought together 130 senior officials and employees from across the Emirate of Dubai.

Leadership participation

The event was sponsored by Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA Dubai, and was attended by several high-ranking officials. Notable participants included Abdullah bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director General of the Dubai Government Human Resources Department; Sami Ahmed Al Qamzi; and Engineer Mansour Buosaibah, President of the UAE Cycling Federation. Also in attendance were assistant director generals, GDRFA staff, and members of the UAE National Cycling Team.

Supporting UAE’s environmental vision

This initiative reflects GDRFA Dubai’s continuous efforts to align with the UAE’s strategic direction for environmental sustainability. It supports UAE Vision 2031, which aims to cultivate an environmentally conscious society and encourage sustainable transportation options that reduce the carbon footprint and enhance urban health.

A global call for green mobility

World Bicycle Day highlights the importance of bicycles as a flexible, healthy, and eco-friendly mode of transport that contributes to sustainable urban development. GDRFA’s participation in this global event underlines its commitment to building awareness around sustainable living and mobility.

A commitment to employee wellness

The initiative also reinforces GDRFA Dubai’s dedication to promoting health and well-being among its workforce and the wider community. By encouraging physical activity and a balanced lifestyle, the department integrates wellness into its broader social responsibility strategy.

Philosophy rooted in well-being

Lt. General Al Marri stressed that fostering a culture of health within the workplace reflects GDRFA Dubai’s deeply rooted institutional values.

“At GDRFA Dubai, we firmly believe that a healthy work environment begins with the individual — with their awareness and daily lifestyle choices. These initiatives are not merely recreational; they are meaningful expressions of a comprehensive philosophy that encourages employees to balance professional performance with personal well-being, and reflects our vision for a motivating and sustainable workplace.”

Building a culture of belonging

Captain Rashid Mohammed Al Marri, Director of the Sports Affairs Department, added a professional perspective, noting that the event was a natural extension of the organisation’s wellness agenda:

“We are proud of the meaningful engagement shown today, which reflects the growing health awareness among our team members. It directly supports our strategic direction to expand internal wellness programs, strengthen the sense of belonging, enhance employees’ quality of life, and raise the overall organizational happiness index.”

Commitment to human-centric values

GDRFA Dubai places high importance on community engagement and wellness as part of its institutional mission. These values reinforce its commitment to a human-centric approach that prioritizes quality of life, balance, and innovation — fully aligned with Dubai’s vision as a global benchmark for smart, healthy living.