- Event marks grand finale of the ninth edition of the championship, with exhilarating races across two categories highlighting its immense community appeal

In the presence and under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Women’s Race – the fourth stage of the Al Salam Cycling Championship – took place today at Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve. The event marked the grand finale of the ninth edition of the Al Salam Cycling Championship.

Organised by the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai, the championship has earned acclaim as the world's largest community cycling event in terms of diversity and prize value. The Supreme Organising Committee of the event, led by His Excellency Omar bin Jumaa Al-Falasi, Director-General of the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai, conducted the Women’s Race, featuring two categories, on the same day.

Both races started from the same point in Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve but with the two fields separated by a set time gap. The first race, held over a 107-km course, was designated for Emirati female cyclists, while the next event, the elite category race, witnessed action over a 136-km course. The second race featured enthusiastic participation from resident female cyclists in the UAE as well as competitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Cycling Federation.

Sponsored by Al Tayer Motors, the Women’s Race featured intense performances and fierce rivalry throughout with the Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve, the largest natural reserve in the UAE, providing a fascinating backdrop for the thrilling action. The reserve plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation, providing natural habitats for one of the largest herds of Arabian oryx and diverse bird populations. Spanning approximately 40 hectares of fertile land rich in shrubbery, it is home to more than 204 species of local birds and 158 species of migratory birds, interspersed by over 10 km of lakes and other scenic landscapes.

The race was attended by His Excellency Omar bin Jumaa Al-Falasi, Director-General of the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai.

Broader vision
His Excellency Al-Falasi expressed his deepest gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his constant support to the Al Salam Cycling Championship and in making its ninth edition a resounding success. He highlighted that the event reflects a broader vision to inspire the community to take to sports as a way of life – one that promotes health, vitality, and happiness.

HE Al-Falasi emphasised that the championship’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity was amply evidenced by the variety of races it featured, bringing together amateur and professional cyclists from diverse backgrounds. He highlighted how the carefully designed race routes not only served to offer a test of endurance but also showcased Dubai’s vibrant landscapes and modern landmarks, reinforcing its position as a global sporting hub.

Applauding the remarkable performances witnessed during the Women’s Race, HE Al-Falasi underscored the event’s role in empowering female athletes and promoting their active involvement in the competitive cycling circuit. He highlighted how the sport fosters both individual strength and collective well-being, encouraging a culture of fitness that benefits families and the wider community alike.

Winners of the Women’s Race included Sheikha Madiya Bint Hasher Al Maktoum from the MyWhoosh team, who secured top spot in Emirati Women’s Race category.

Sheikha Madiya led a MyWhoosh team sweep of the podium, with her teammates Ayesha Foolad and Mouza Al Ghafil finishing in second and third place respectively.