His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, attended the Women’s Race, the final stage of the Al Salam Cycling Championship’s ninth edition at Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve.
A Prestigious Cycling Championship
Organized by the Private Office of Sheikh Mohammed, the Al Salam Cycling Championship is the world’s largest community cycling event in terms of diversity and prize value. Led by Omar bin Jumaa Al Falasi, Director-General of the Private Office, the Women’s Race featured two competitive categories, attracting elite cyclists from the UAE and the GCC.
Thrilling Competition at Al Marmoom
Held against the breathtaking backdrop of the UAE’s largest natural reserve, the championship showcased top-tier cycling talent. The event featured two races:
- A 107-km race for Emirati female cyclists
- A 136-km elite race for resident and GCC competitors
Sponsored by Al Tayer Motors, the race brought together top athletes in an exciting display of endurance and skill.
Empowering Women in Sports
Al Falasi expressed gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed for his continuous support and highlighted the championship’s role in promoting sports, health, and inclusivity. The Women’s Race serves as a platform for empowering female athletes and strengthening Dubai’s global sporting presence.
Race Winners
Emirati Women’s Race
1️⃣ Sheikha Madiya Bint Hasher Al Maktoum (MyWhoosh)
2️⃣ Ayesha Foolad (MyWhoosh)
3️⃣ Mouza Al Ghafil (MyWhoosh)
Elite Race
1️⃣ Nora Jencusova (Dubai Police Cycling – Positive Spirit)
2️⃣ Cristina Tonetti (Dubai Police – Essad)
3️⃣ Olha Shkel (Dubai Police Cycling)
Team Rankings
- Emirati Race: MyWhoosh, Dubai Police Cycling, Airwick Racing
- Elite Race: Dubai Police – Positive Spirit, Dubai Police – Esaad, Dubai Police
40+ Age Category Winners
🏆 Sheikha Madiya (Emirati category)
🏆 Hellen Bachofen von Echt (Elite category)
Photography Competition – Capture the Spirit of the Race
In collaboration with The Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Awards, a photography competition invites photographers to submit their best shots of the Women’s Race. Submissions remain open until 26 February, with cash prizes of Dh12,000, Dh8,000, and Dh5,000 for the top entries.
A Championship of Global Recognition
The ninth edition of the championship began in December with the prestigious Sword of Honour Race, followed by the Ruler’s Court Elite Men’s Race and the Desert Race. Organized with key partners, including Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, RTA, and Dubai Sports Council, the championship reinforces Dubai’s position as a global hub for sports and fitness.