Big Bike Race 2025 Starts in Al Ain Ends in Abu Dhabi

Photo: WAM

The Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo is back for its fourth edition, and it’s shaping up to be the biggest and boldest one yet. Mark your calendars — it’s happening on Sunday, December 21, 2025. Organised by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, this annual cycling event has grown fast over the past few years, and 2025 promises to take things to a whole new level.

A Fresh Route Through Stunning UAE Landscapes

This year, there’s a major change that riders will notice right away — the route has been reversed. Instead of starting in Abu Dhabi like previous years, the 2025 race will kick off in the Al Ain Region and end in Abu Dhabi.

Why the change? It’s not just about mixing things up. This route takes cyclists through some of the most scenic parts of the country, giving them the chance to experience the UAE’s natural beauty while pushing themselves to the finish line. It also reflects a broader vision: to spotlight different parts of the country and keep the race experience fresh and exciting every year.

The organisers are confident that this tweak will make the race more enjoyable, not just for the pros, but for every single rider on the road.

Big Money on the Line

If you're wondering whether this event is serious business — the prize pool says it all. A whopping AED 2 million is up for grabs this year. That’s not just a big step up; it’s a strong statement about how much this event has grown.

A total of 364 prizes will be awarded — that’s 44 more than last year. Whether you’re a top-level professional or an everyday cycling enthusiast, your hard work has a better chance of being recognised this time around.

By increasing both the number of winners and the overall reward, the organisers are making it clear: they’re here to support cycling at every level and make the Gran Fondo one of the most rewarding events in the region — if not the world.

What the Organisers Are Saying

Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, called the Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo “a unique race” — and he’s not wrong. It’s one of the few events that brings together both professional athletes and amateur riders, all on the same track, chasing the same goal.

He pointed out that the new route isn’t just a logistical shift — it’s part of a bigger plan to make cycling a bigger part of everyday life in the UAE and to position Abu Dhabi as a global cycling destination.

Al Awani also noted that increasing the prize money and number of awards reflects the Sports Council’s commitment to growth. This isn’t just about one event — it’s about building a long-term vision where cycling plays a key role in sport, health, and community life in the emirate.

More Than Just a Race

The Gran Fondo is part of a much larger initiative known as Bike Abu Dhabi. This program was launched to help turn the emirate into a bike-friendly city, where cycling becomes a regular part of life — not just something reserved for professional racers.

The goals behind the Bike Abu Dhabi platform are clear:

• Get more people riding bikes for fitness and fun

• Promote a greener, more sustainable way of getting around

• Build Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a cycling hotspot

• Strengthen community bonds through sport

Since the event first began in 2022, it’s gained serious momentum. It’s now a fixed date on the international cycling calendar, and it draws riders from across the world who want to test their skills on the UAE’s roads.

A Global Gathering of Cyclists

Last year’s Gran Fondo saw over 1,000 cyclists, both men and women, representing more than 70 different nationalities. That’s not just impressive — it’s powerful. It shows what the event has come to represent: diversity, inclusion, and shared passion.

People from different countries and cultures coming together, not just to race, but to connect, compete respectfully, and enjoy a shared love for cycling. That kind of unity is exactly what the UAE stands for, and it’s a big reason why the Gran Fondo is more than just another sporting event — it’s a symbol of what’s possible when sport brings people together.

A Race That Fits the Moment

There’s another meaningful layer to the 2025 edition. It aligns with the UAE’s "Year of the Community", a national campaign that puts the spotlight on togetherness, unity, and belonging.

By holding the Gran Fondo during this year, the Abu Dhabi Sports Council is sending a strong message: sport isn’t just about competition — it’s about connection. It’s about making people feel included, seen, and valued, no matter where they come from or how fast they ride.

This year’s race is a perfect fit for that message. It gives people a chance to come together, not just on the road, but in spirit. It reminds us that cycling — like any sport — is better when it’s shared. When riders support one another, celebrate health, and embrace the community that forms along the journey.

What to Expect

So, what should you expect from this year’s Gran Fondo?

For starters, a beautiful ride through the Al Ain region, ending in the heart of Abu Dhabi. A chance to compete for some serious prize money. An atmosphere that’s welcoming, energetic, and inspiring. And a chance to be part of something that’s bigger than a race — a movement toward healthier living, stronger communities, and a more sustainable future.

Whether you’re a cyclist looking to compete, a fan cheering on your friends, or someone who just loves a good story of community and sport — this is a race worth following.

The Abu Dhabi Sports Council has made it clear: they’re not just organising an event. They’re building a cycling culture, step by step, year by year — and the Gran Fondo is at the heart of it.