Sheikh Zayed Road turns into a cyclists’ paradise for Dubai Ride 2025
Smiles, selfies and the sound of spinning gears fill the cool morning air
Dubai: Thousands of cyclists, from families with little ones in tow to seasoned pros, turned Sheikh Zayed Road into a sea of wheels and colour on Sunday morning as the sixth edition of Dubai Ride, presented by DP World, kicked off the Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025 in spectacular style.
Smiles, selfies and the sound of spinning gears filled the cool morning air as riders set off on two scenic routes. Families and casual cyclists enjoyed the relaxed 4km flat route through Downtown Dubai, while more adventurous participants tackled the 12km stretch past the city’s most iconic landmarks like the Museum of the Future, Dubai Water Canal, and Burj Khalifa.
For the speed enthusiasts, the Dubai Ride Speed Laps (5 am to 6 am) brought an extra thrill, letting professional cyclists push beyond 30km/h on the open highway – a rare chance to ride fast and free through the heart of Dubai.
Yaqoub Al Zarouni, Senior Manager of DFC at the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), called the event a highlight of the month-long challenge.
“Dubai Ride is a unique experience. It’s the only time of the year you can cycle along Sheikh Zayed Road, and the whole stretch is just for you,” he told Gulf News.
‘Grateful to the leaders’
Recie Natividad, a Dubai resident for 20 years, and Waids Ragrag, who has called the city home for 16 years, were among the members of Tambikers – a cycling group of about 170 to 200 enthusiasts.
“Our group has been around for about five years and shares a common passion for cycling. We’re dedicated to fitness – it’s about sport, community and unity,” said Recie.
“It’s great to have an event like this. We’re very grateful to the leaders for giving us such an opportunity,” added Waids.
First-timers feel the thrill
Teenagers Rabeea Sangani, Areena Rab, and Vidhi Ogale were visibly tired but all smiles after completing their first Dubai Ride.
“We did four laps. It was fun and amazing. We’re all into sports and get a lot of support from our families,” said the fitness enthusiasts, all Grade 12 students of Dubai Gem Private School.
Group of friends from ‘Bike City’
It wasn’t just Dubai residents taking part – cyclists from across the UAE joined in the ride. Two Joints, a cycling group from Abu Dhabi, came with 16 members.
“We’re here to celebrate fitness and friendship. We’re like a family. Cycling builds strong relationships – and coming from the ‘Bike City’ of Abu Dhabi, we love promoting cycling at such events,” said Edward Goling and Rogen Cartosiano.
‘Ditch cars, we cycle when we can’
A group of four Keralite friends – Binoy KP, Shafeek A, Sabiq Arayalan, and Basheer VK – have been cycling together for years.
“We cycle whenever we can. Exploring the city on our bikes is something we really enjoy – and with winter setting in, it’s the best time to ride. We’ll also be joining the Dubai Run,” they said.
To ensure smooth journeys to and from Sheikh Zayed Road, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) extended metro operations from 3 am to midnight.
With thousands taking to the road in a show of unity and enthusiasm, Dubai Ride 2025 wrapped up on a high note – setting the pace for another exciting month of the Dubai Fitness Challenge.
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