Dubai Ride 2024 is just around the corner, transforming the iconic Sheikh Zayed Road into a cycling track for thousands of participants. Part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, this highly anticipated event invites cyclists of all ages to pedal through the city’s heart on Sunday, November 10. Here’s your go-to guide on road closures, transport, start times, and other essentials to ensure a smooth experience.
Road Closures and Timings
As the Dubai Ride takes over Sheikh Zayed Road, expect full closures on the following roads from 3:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.:
- Sheikh Zayed Road: Closed from the Trade Centre Roundabout to the second bridge.
- Lower Financial Centre Road: Between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road.
- Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard: One-way lane closure.
Dubai Metro Schedule
To accommodate the event, the Dubai Metro will operate extended hours. Both the Red and Green Lines will start running at 3 a.m. until midnight, ensuring convenient access for participants.
Start Times and Points
The event kicks off at 6:15 a.m., with entry gates closing at 7:30 a.m. Plan to arrive at one of the five starting points if you’re registered for the 12 km route on Sheikh Zayed Road:
- Museum of the Future
- Al Satwa
- Coca-Cola Arena
- Business Bay
- Lower Financial Centre Street
For those on the 4 km family route, the starting point is at Dubai Mall. Ensure you check your registration details to confirm your assigned starting location.
Event Timings
The main ride is scheduled from 6:15 a.m. to 8:15 a.m., while the newly introduced speed lap challenge will run from 5 a.m. to 6 a.m..
What to Bring
Be prepared with these essentials:
- Numbered bib: Required for participation; collect at Zabeel Park’s 30 x 30 Fitness Village by November 9.
- Bicycle: Any bike with two wheels and functioning brakes is permitted. Children with training wheels are not allowed on Sheikh Zayed Road. E-bikes are allowed, but scooters are not.
- Helmet: Mandatory for all participants.
- Water bottle: Refillable and recommended; stations along the route will offer refills.
- Bike lights: Suggested for participants starting before dawn.
Free Bike Rentals
If you need a bike, Careem is offering free rentals in partnership with the RTA. Use code DR24 for a one-day pass in the app. Pop-up rental stations are available at:
- Entrance A: Museum of the Future (Trade Centre Street)
- Entrance E: Lower FCS (Financial Centre Road)
Bikes are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cycling to the Venue
For avid cyclists, riding from home to the event is an option, provided all Dubai cycling regulations are followed. Remember, road closures will lift after the event, making the return trip more challenging as traffic resumes.
Wrap-Up
Aim to complete your route by 8:15 a.m. The event isn’t a race, but finishing on time will help ensure smooth flow. Marshals will be stationed along the route to guide participants back to their starting points if needed.
