emirates7 - The organising committee of L’Étape Dubai by Tour de France has announced that the event’s second edition will take place on January 25, 2026.
Supported by official partner Škoda and government partner Dubai Sports Council, this world-class cycling event is expected to attract even more participants and will feature an expanded weekend programme of activities.
The first edition of L’Étape Dubai saw over 1,000 participants, including 243 international riders and 266 Emiratis, making it the largest amateur cycling event of its kind in the UAE for a debut edition. The race included competitive courses of 101 km and 50 km, a 20 km family-friendly ride, and kids’ races, covering key landmarks throughout the city.
For 2026, the event aims to double participation to 2,000 cyclists across different categories. It will also welcome legendary former Tour de France riders to the UAE, building on the presence of three former champions who took part in 2025.
Essa Sharif, Director of the Sports Events Department at Dubai Sports Council, expressed confidence that the upcoming edition will be even more successful. He highlighted Dubai’s growing cycling culture, extensive track network spanning hundreds of kilometers, and the experience of the organisers as key factors. He also noted that holding the race in January, when Dubai enjoys mild winter weather, provides an excellent start to a busy season of international cycling events.
Antoine Quiers from A.S.O, the organisers of the Tour de France, shared his enthusiasm about delivering another exceptional edition of L’Étape Dubai, thanking the event’s partners and supporters for the success of the inaugural race.
Fairouz Al Qazi, race director of L’Étape Dubai by Tour de France powered by Škoda, confirmed that strong interest and early registration numbers reflect the ongoing growth of cycling in the UAE ahead of the next edition.
Supported by official partner Škoda and government partner Dubai Sports Council, this world-class cycling event is expected to attract even more participants and will feature an expanded weekend programme of activities.
The first edition of L’Étape Dubai saw over 1,000 participants, including 243 international riders and 266 Emiratis, making it the largest amateur cycling event of its kind in the UAE for a debut edition. The race included competitive courses of 101 km and 50 km, a 20 km family-friendly ride, and kids’ races, covering key landmarks throughout the city.
For 2026, the event aims to double participation to 2,000 cyclists across different categories. It will also welcome legendary former Tour de France riders to the UAE, building on the presence of three former champions who took part in 2025.
Essa Sharif, Director of the Sports Events Department at Dubai Sports Council, expressed confidence that the upcoming edition will be even more successful. He highlighted Dubai’s growing cycling culture, extensive track network spanning hundreds of kilometers, and the experience of the organisers as key factors. He also noted that holding the race in January, when Dubai enjoys mild winter weather, provides an excellent start to a busy season of international cycling events.
Antoine Quiers from A.S.O, the organisers of the Tour de France, shared his enthusiasm about delivering another exceptional edition of L’Étape Dubai, thanking the event’s partners and supporters for the success of the inaugural race.
Fairouz Al Qazi, race director of L’Étape Dubai by Tour de France powered by Škoda, confirmed that strong interest and early registration numbers reflect the ongoing growth of cycling in the UAE ahead of the next edition.