Cycling in Dubai has evolved from a niche weekend pastime into one of the city’s fastest-growing lifestyle trends. Transformed into a world-class destination for cyclists of all levels, purpose-built tracks now weave through deserts, beachfronts and urban skylines, offering everything from leisurely scenic rides to high-performance training grounds.
Whether you’re a recreational rider looking for a safe morning loop, a commuter seeking eco-friendly alternatives, or a road cyclist chasing personal bests, Dubai delivers in style. From the sweeping Al Qudra desert trail to the bustling Nad Al Sheba and Meydan circuits, the city combines immaculate infrastructure with year-round sunshine and a thriving cycling community.
Where to ride in Dubai
- Located in the desert approximately 35 minutes away from Downtown Dubai, Al Qudra Cycling Track is an ideal destination for thrill-seekers and fitness enthusiasts alike. Spanning 86km, this scenic track treats riders to mesmerising views of the desert landscape. Whether a professional cyclist or a novice, the track caters to all skill levels, making it a great choice for individuals and groups seeking an invigorating cycling experience.
- Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park, near Meydan Racecourse, is open 24 hours and has a choice of eight, six and four kilometre-long loops, all lit up at night. It also has the 68km ‘Lollipop’ track through the desert – with a strategic breakfast spot at the Bab al Shams desert resort.
- The 8.4km DxBike track next to Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City is the ideal place for cycling safely with great views of the Dubai skyline.
- Mountain bikers are well catered for in Hatta. There’s a dedicated 52km mountain biking trail to tackle, with four different levels to consider based on your abilities. Stop by the Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre for bike hires and to pick up other essentials such as helmets, as well as elbow and knee guards.
- Al Khawaneej and Mushrif Tracks were recently expanded by 7km and now total 39km. The expansion connects Qur’anic Park to the existing Al Khawaneej track and Mushrif Park to the Al Khawaneej track via bridges.
- Mushrif Park Mountain Biking Trail features a 20km mountain biking trail for various skill levels, designed to accommodate up to 3,000 cyclists daily. Dubai Municipality has completed the first phase of a 50km mountain bike track within Mushrif National Park.
- Jumeirah Track is a 16km route along Jumeirah Beach, connecting to tracks near the Dubai Water Canal and King Salman bin AbdulAziz Al Saud Street. The official route runs from Dubai Water Canal to Umm Suqeim Park, continuing along Jumeirah Street and King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street to Dubai Internet City.
- Dubai Water Canal Cycling Track is a 7km track along the Dubai Water Canal.
- Expo City Dubai features a 10km cycling track.
- Al Barsha Pond Park is an escape from the city in the heart of the Al Barsha residential community. At the park you’ll find both families and fitness enthusiasts using the 1.5km track, kids’ cycling areas, bike rental and fitness machines, as well as various courts and kids’ play areas.
- Dubai Marina Track, a trip of 12.5km, starts from Al Sufouh and crosses the outskirts of Dubai Internet City and Dubai Media City to go right into the heart of the marina.
Access, rentals and bike share
- Careem BIKE stands are located across the city, including Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina and at many Metro stations. The RTA and Careem have expanded their bike rental service, adding 950 pedal-assisted e-bikes and 95 stations, bringing the total to 1,750 bikes at 175 stations in key areas. This service has seen over 7.35 million trips since 2020.
- Short-term rentals are also widely available, with operators such as Nextbike, Byky and Trek Bikes.
Cycling events in Dubai
- Dubai Ride (2 November 2025): In the Dubai Ride, part of Dubai Fitness Challenge, cyclists pedal their way through the heart of the city. Attracting a record 37,130 participants in 2024, this all-ages community event promises an action-packed day of fun and fitness. Riders can choose between the family-friendly 4km route around Downtown Dubai, offering views of Burj Khalifa, or take on the 14km challenge along Sheikh Zayed Road.
- Al Salam Cycling Championship (December 2025 to February 2026): Recognised as the world’s largest community cycling race in terms of diversity and prize value. The 2025 to 2026 edition features four races at Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve: UAE Nationals Amateur Race on 28 December 2025, Elite Race on 18 January 2026, Women’s Race on 25 January 2026, and Desert Race on 1 February 2026. Organised under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
- L’Etape Dubai by Tour de France (25 January 2026): L’Etape Dubai by Tour de France brings the excitement of the iconic cycling race to Dubai. Open to all levels, the event features a 101km competitive race, a relaxed 50km ride, a 20km family ride, and kids’ races. Cyclists will enjoy closed-road routes through Dubai’s skyline and desert landscapes. With a lively fan village, Tour de France legends, and entertainment, it’s a must-attend cycling weekend.
- Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycling Challenge (15 February 2026): The 16th edition of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge will be a UCI Gran Fondo World Championships 2026 qualifying event. Starting and finishing at Expo City Dubai, the race offers amateur cyclists an exciting journey through Dubai. Prior to the main event, four build-up rides will take place at the Al Qudra cycle track: Sunday 28 September 2025 (35km), Sunday 26 October 2025 (45km), Sunday 23 November 2025 (65km) and Sunday 4 January 2026 (85km). On Saturday 14 February 2025, there will also be family run rides and junior rides.
- UAE Tour (16-22 February 2026): Part of the UCI WorldTour, the UAE Tour men’s cycling event is held over various stages including Dubai.
- NAS Cycling Championship (2026 TBD): Features a 75km race with categories for Open Men and Women, Emirati Amateur Men and Women, and People of Determination using Road Bicycles and Hand Bicycles
- Women’s Cycling Challenge (2026 TBD): Presented by DP World, this event for women of all cycling abilities is held on the Al Qudra Cycle Track and offers various distances.
Things to know before you ride
- Use designated cycle paths where available; ride on the far right in single file on suitable side roads if not.
- Helmets are required, as are lights and reflectors for low-light rides. Slow down on shared paths.
- Soft mobility is expanding across districts, with better maintenance, oversight, and awareness on tracks.
- Plan rides for early mornings or sunset for spectacular sunrises and sunsets, especially on desert routes like Al Qudra.
For more information see visitdubai.com
Images courtesy of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)