Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has declared a temporary closure of the cycling tracks in Al Qudra on Sunday, February 16, 2025. This closure is in preparation for the Desert Race, which is part of the 9th Al Salam Cycling Championship.

According to Gulf News, the cycling tracks will be closed from 7:00 am until 6:00 pm, as per an update shared by the RTA on X. The race is scheduled to start at 1:30 pm and will run for a duration of four hours, taking place within the Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve.

Participants in the Desert Race will navigate a challenging course that includes sand dunes and rugged trails. This event marks the third stage of the championship, featuring two race categories: Sarouq Al Hadid, covering 52 km, and Al Ashoosh, which spans 57 km. Additionally, there will be a timed sprint segment at Areeqib Brashi.

The race includes a total of 44 financial prizes for the top 10 finishers in each category, and those who excel in the sprint challenges will also be honored. In each sprint race, six Emiratis and six residents, divided into three participants under 40 and three over 40, will receive recognition for their performances.