Post by : Bianca
Haleem
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has issued a public advisory warning motorists about temporary road closures across several major routes in the city on Friday afternoon as cyclists participating in the UAE Tour Women 2026 pass through Dubai.
According to the RTA, the closures will be short, lasting between 10 and 15 minutes at a time, and roads will be reopened immediately after the riders have safely crossed each stretch. Authorities emphasized that the measures are necessary to ensure the safety of both participants and the public during the international sporting event.
Start Point and Route Details
Friday’s stage of the race began at 12:50 pm from the Dubai Police Academy. From there, the group of professional female cyclists moved through a number of well-known roads and districts across the emirate. The planned route included Umm Suqeim Street, Dubai Investment Park, Al Qudra Cycle Track, and Dubai Sports City before concluding at Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University.
Traffic officials noted that although the closures are brief, drivers could still experience short delays depending on their location and timing. Residents and commuters who usually travel through these areas during the afternoon hours were advised to plan their journeys in advance and consider leaving earlier than usual to avoid inconvenience.
Public Advisory and Safety Measures
In its social media announcement, the RTA reassured motorists that traffic management teams would be deployed across affected locations to regulate vehicle movement and guide drivers toward alternative routes where necessary. Electronic signboards and on-ground personnel were also positioned to provide real-time updates and directions.
The authority highlighted that such temporary closures are standard practice during large sporting events and are carefully coordinated to minimize disruption while maintaining strict safety standards. Emergency lanes and essential service routes remain prioritized throughout the event.
About the UAE Tour Women 2026
The UAE Tour Women is one of the region’s most prominent cycling competitions and continues to grow in international recognition. The 2026 edition marks the fourth time the event has been organized, drawing global attention to women’s professional cycling and promoting the UAE as a major destination for world-class sporting activities.
Organized by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, this year’s race runs until February 8 and brings together 120 elite female cyclists from various countries. Over several stages, the riders are set to cover a total distance of approximately 533 kilometers across different terrains in the UAE, ranging from urban roads to desert stretches and mountain climbs.
Final Stage at Jebel Hafeet
The tour will conclude on Sunday with a challenging final stage at Jebel Hafeet, one of the UAE’s most iconic mountain routes known for its steep inclines and scenic views. The finishing climb is widely regarded as a decisive moment in the competition, often determining the overall winner due to its demanding gradient and endurance requirements.
Impact on City Traffic
While the road closures are temporary, officials stressed the importance of public cooperation. Events of this scale require coordinated traffic control to balance city mobility with international sporting commitments. Dubai frequently hosts global sporting tournaments, and authorities have developed efficient systems to handle such occasions with minimal disruption.
For daily commuters, the main impact is expected to be limited to brief pauses at intersections or route diversions lasting only a few minutes. Logistics companies, school transport services, and corporate fleets were encouraged to stay updated through official RTA channels for live notifications.
Growing Focus on Women’s Sports
The UAE Tour Women also reflects a broader regional push to support women’s participation in sports and encourage healthier lifestyles. The event not only showcases athletic excellence but also inspires local communities and young athletes by providing visible international role models.
Over the past few years, women’s cycling has seen increased investment and audience interest, and the UAE’s continued hosting of the tour reinforces its commitment to gender inclusivity in sports. The race route across multiple emirates allows residents from different regions to witness the competition firsthand.
Planning Ahead
Authorities reiterated that preparation is the best way to avoid delays. Motorists were advised to check traffic advisories, use navigation apps for alternate routes, and allocate extra travel time during the race window. Public transport users were also reminded to follow official announcements for any service adjustments near affected zones.
With coordinated planning and public awareness, officials expect the event to proceed smoothly while allowing residents to continue their daily routines with minimal interruption. The combination of efficient traffic management and international sporting excitement highlights Dubai’s ability to host large-scale global events while maintaining urban flow and safety.
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