KT Photos: Shihab

A lively parade featuring Dubai Police’s cybertrucks and a contingent of delivery riders marked the commencement of the fifth edition of the Dubai Ride on Sunday, November 10. The vibrant display of blue and white siren lights alongside the orange-colored Talabat delivery boxes created a festive atmosphere as the sun rose over Sheikh Zayed Road, transforming it into a magnificent cycling track.

Thousands of cyclists, both seasoned and amateur, took to the streets—some in their professional attire, others sporting the purple T-shirts distributed this year to registered participants. Some even opted for themed costumes to add to the event's excitement.

For English tourist Katie Ice, the experience was truly unforgettable. On holiday in Dubai and staying at Dubai Marina, Katie took a taxi to the starting point in front of the Museum of the Future, where she received a free Careem bike. “It was incredibly easy to get the bike and join the ride,” she said. “Sheikh Zayed Road is so vast that it was an amazing experience, despite the large crowd. It was my first time doing something like this, and next year, I plan to return to Dubai at the same time to participate again.”

Katie, who arrived in the city a few weeks prior, credited the Dubai Fitness Challenge for her newfound motivation. “I’ve ditched the gym and now frequent various fitness villages. Yesterday, I was at Zabeel Park for a zumba class. I believe Dubai should extend this initiative beyond just one month. It’s the most incredible way to stay fit.”

For some, the Dubai Ride has become an integral part of their lives. Bradley Cooper and his wife Ayesha Ma, who have lived in the UAE for 15 years, are regular participants. This year, however, was special as they brought along their 1-year-old son, Cooper, for his first ride. Dressed in a lilac shirt, blue shorts, and a blue helmet, little Cooper was bright and alert at 7am. “He’s been loving it,” said Bradley. “We wanted him to share in the experience we enjoy so much.”

Several families brought their children along in trailers and bike seats, while others rode alongside on their small cycles, pedaling as fast as their little legs could manage. Three-year-old Jannah, after cycling for nearly 5km, opted to finish the ride seated on the bike seat at the back of her father’s cycle.

Housemates Mark, Lala, Ang, Dave, and Joylynn returned for the event for the fifth consecutive year. “This is one of the most anticipated events of the year for us,” said Mark. “We left our home in Deira at 4.30am to ensure we arrived on time for the race. Every year, we take photos at the same spot, almost as a testament to our bond.”

However, for others, it was their first time experiencing the event. Colombian expats Stefany and Mildre and Chinese national Linda, who met at the gym and became close friends, decided to take their fitness routine outdoors this year by participating in the Dubai Ride for the first time. “It’s been an incredible experience,” said Linda. “Next year, we hope to return and do it again.”

For the first time, numerous cyclists had the opportunity to race down Sheikh Zayed Road as part of the Dubai Ride. The speed laps feature, introduced exclusively for experienced cyclists, commenced at 5am. Open only to those aged 21 and above, participants were required to maintain an average speed of 30km/hr to complete the 12km route from Dubai World Trade Centre to Safa Park and back. Riders had to exit the route by 6am.

A group of cyclists known as the AUH riders left their homes in Abu Dhabi at 2am to make it in time for the speed laps. For them, the new feature was a major draw. “During the usual Dubai Ride, you have to be very cautious due to the varying skill levels of cyclists, and the average speed is about 20km/hr,” said member Noushad. “This year, we were considering skipping it until we heard about the speed laps. That was a huge motivation for us.”

The group of 25 arrived just after 4am to participate in the speed laps. “It was the most exhilarating experience,” he said. “We managed about 24km before being asked to exit. We really enjoyed it and felt the drive from Abu Dhabi was worth it.” After the laps, the group rejoined the Dubai Ride to cycle the 4km route. “This is one of those iconic cycling experiences that no rider wants to miss,” he said. “We chose the 4km route so we could cycle past all the major landmarks.”

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