While on the ground in Abu Dhabi, we saw firsthand the commitment to health, fitness, and accessibility to cycling, but is it enough?
“We’re an Abu Dhabi-based company established on the belief that the UAE leaders wanted to do something for the community’s general health,” said MyWhoosh Relationship Manager Bart Van den Dries when asked why representation at the late-April FAB Cycling Festival was essential for the virtual cycling platform.
The three-day event, sponsored by the First Abu Dhabi Bank, took place on Abu Dhabi’s Al Hudayriyat Island. It united the community through group rides, riding and racing clinics, kids’ races, women’s events, and various activities aimed at promoting cycling.
Van den Dries and his MyWhoosh team set up a room at the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club on the island, equipping it with twenty bikes mounted on smart trainers. Over the course of three days, they showcased the benefits of indoor cycling to festival attendees. Participants experienced riding a virtual simulation of the island’s cycling track before braving the Abu Dhabi heat to ride it outdoors.
The UAE is investing in cycling, making it more accessible than ever imagined.
Before the inaugural Abu Dhabi Tour, where Esteban Chaves of Orica-GreenEDGE emerged victorious in 2015, the United Arab Emirates and cycling on the global stage rarely entered the same sentence, even among the most knowledgeable bike racing enthusiasts.
Upon the announcement of UAE’s initial foray into Professional cycling, the man charged with organizing the effort, Emirati Matar Suhail Al Yabhouni Al Dhaheri, foreshadowed the early position of the ruling family in a 2017 Cyclist interview.
A Glimpse Into The Future—Strategic Motivations
“Our leadership is encouraging us to try this sport,” he said to Andy Sherwood. “They are opening eyes to something healthy, cheap, and easy to do.”
The flat expanses of open roads radiating with desert heat are an unlikely setting for a narrative woven into the fabric of cycling history. The region is known for many things that the sport’s traditionalists brustle to consider when mentioned alongside the cobbled paths of Europe or the storied climbs of the Tour de France.
Rewind to the January 25th press conference in Abu Dhabi to announce the nation’s growing partnership with the UCI and virtual cycling platform MyWhoosh when UAE Team Emirates principal Mauro Gianetti remarked, “What they are doing here is remarkable, and our goal is to not only win races, but show the world how the UAE promotes the sport of cycling, and to find the first Emirati Tour de France rider.”
The Abu Dhabi and Dubai Tours merged in 2019 to become the UAE Tour, which departed on its 6th edition on February 19, shortly after the second UAE Women’s Tour concluded.
Before my visit in late January 2024 as a guest of MyWhoosh, the UCI’s selected host for the next three years of the Cycling Esports World Championships, my knowledge of the emirate was limited. However, as I prepared for the trip, I discovered that my simplistic view was evolving.
The UAE Prioritizes a Healthy Lifestyle and Accessibility
The UAE, particularly Dubai, prioritizes the health and wellness of its citizens, striving to become one of the world’s fittest cities. With numerous gyms, training facilities, and community sporting events like cycling tours, triathlons, and fun runs, the government encourages an active lifestyle for all residents.
Founded in 1971, the UAE is on a progressive path, distinguishing itself as one of the most liberal and forward-thinking nations in the Gulf region. Notably, in 2020, it normalized relations with Israel, fostering business ties, direct flights, scientific collaboration, and full diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level.
The recent inauguration of the first Indian diaspora in Abu Dhabi on February 13, 2024, highlights the strong relationship between the countries, marking the culmination of nearly a decade-long process embraced by both nations as a sign of their growing ties.
In February 2021, the UAE achieved a significant milestone by becoming the fifth country to reach Mars and the second to enter its orbit successfully on the first attempt.
However, reports of intolerance, restrictions on free expression, and limited government representation by citizens raise concerns about the UAE’s human rights record, challenging the perception of progressiveness.
The Sports Washing Dichotomy
In recent years, “sportswashing” has emerged as a prominent trending term in cycling commentary, particularly concerning oil-rich Persian Gulf states’ substantial investments in teams, events, and athletes. Critics argue that these investments serve to improve their reputations and divert attention from human rights issues.
The international spread of sports like the Olympics, football, Formula One, boxing, and cycling into repressive regimes across West Asia, China, Russia, and the Middle East raises questions about governing bodies’ responsibility and the potential for deflecting from poor human rights records.
A closer examination unveils what some perceive as more nuanced and strategic motivations behind these investments. For example, the UAE seeks to diversify its economy away from oil dependence, promote societal change, and enhance its global influence and political standing through sports investments and hosting international events.
The country is dedicated to bolstering its technological focus and fostering new sectors to reduce reliance on a declining oil economy. The UAE’s non-oil trade approached $1 trillion in 2023, with a rise in non-oil trade of 12.6% in 2022. The nation’s 2021 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) include a multi-faceted approach to economic diversification. [Reuters, February 18, 2024]
The Endemic Influence of State-Funded Enterprise
First Abu Dhabi Bank stands as the largest lender in the UAE. The bank’s significant stakes held by the government and ruling family create a blurred line between state and private enterprise.
In addition to the UCI Cycling Esports World Championships, the UAE will also host the 2024 UCI Urban Cycling World Championships, the 2028 UCI Road World Championships, the 2028 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, and the 2029 UCI Track World Championships.
The ubiquitous influence of Emirati money in pro cycling is controversial, but the significant investment in community-based cycling programs and infrastructure is largely unknown or overlooked.
The ruling family of the UAE has a strong affinity for the sport and strategically invests in it to yield tangible impacts and returns. Additionally, they prioritize promoting health, wellness, and fitness within their community, demonstrating a commitment to fostering a healthier lifestyle.
Investment in Community Cycling Infrastructure is Undeniable
As I stepped off the plane and into a cab headed for the hotel, I was struck by what I saw, reinforcing why Abu Dhabi was designated as the first “Bike City” in the Middle East by the UCI in 2021. The influence of oil wealth was apparent, with cheap fuel prices, wide roads, and urban sprawl expanding outward from the city limits.
However, what caught my attention were the miles of dedicated bike paths lining the highways, a testament to the city’s commitment to cycling infrastructure. Runners, cyclists, and pedestrians were enjoying the network of protected bikeways, with many renting bikes to explore the Corniche bike track along the waterfront.
Plans for a 109km Abu Dhabi loop, partially indoor and air-conditioned, connecting cultural landmarks and another linking Abu Dhabi with Dubai, are underway. The UAE has invested approximately $460 million into cycling infrastructure, with nearly 300 miles of dedicated-use tracks and bikeways already in place or under construction.
As we sat for lunch the following day, preparing for the 45-minute bus trip out of the city to ride on one of them, the Al Wathba cycle track, I overheard Van den Dries say, “There’s some great racing there.”
Thriving Grassroots Amateur UAE Racing Scene
His accent revealed his decade in the Belgian Continental Pro peloton and his experience as a Team Manager. The heightened pitch of his voice conveyed his excitement, mirroring my eagerness to learn about an amateur racing scene previously unknown to me.
Observers closely scrutinize the top-down development of competitive cycling in the UAE, questioning whether it’s primarily a public image investment. However, a thriving grassroots amateur cycling calendar supported by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council challenges this perception.
According to Van den Dries, the local cycling scene boasts a diverse mix of Emiratis and expats, steadily growing in numbers and expertise each year. The season spans from September to April, featuring regular early morning races attracting around 150 riders across various categories and age groups.
In addition, there’s a full calendar of non-competitive group rides, triathlons, and running events organized by promotors like PremierOnline, Hopasports, and SuperSportsUAE.
Purpose-Built Cycling Tracks and Amenities
Most races are on cycling tracks purpose-built in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, like Al Wahtba, Al Hudayriyat Island, and Al Qudra. The highways and roads are closed for bigger events like the Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo, Ride Ajman, and Spinneys92, a UCI Gran Fondo Qualifier.
Some races feature climbs such as Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain, with a 12km ascent boasting 8-9% average gradients, and Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah, offering a challenging 20km climb with a 5% average gradient. Additionally, areas like Liwa (Moreeb Dune) and Hatta showcase unique desert scenery, including challenging dunes for riders to conquer.
Al Wahtba’s illuminated 30km track, complete with well-equipped changing facilities and showers, serves as a cyclist’s haven in the desert, offering 24/7 access free of charge. However, while the track provides a safe training environment, the unchanging desert landscape may lack visual stimulation for some riders.
The relentless crosswinds that sweep across the track add an element of challenge and strategy to racing. Race organization, licensing, and fee structures align with standard practices observed in amateur racing circles. However, my anticipation built for the unique experience planned for the following day.
Unique Cycling Opportunities Are Commonplace in Abu Dhabi
Riding a bike on a Formula 1 track like Yas Marina Circuit offers an unparalleled cycling experience, free of charge to residents and tourists in Abu Dhabi, several mornings and evenings each week.
While our amped-up group of cycling journalists tried to poach Philippe Gilbert’s hot lap KOM from Stage 4 of the 2015 Abu Dhabi Tour, an estimated 1,000 riders, runners, and walkers, ranging from families to the performance-focused, enjoyed the thrill of the undulating 7km loop through the cavernous grandstands as music played in the background.
Al Hudayriyat Island holds significant importance for the future of cycling in the UAE. The island features a 10-km cycling track extending over the water, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline amidst flat terrain and challenging onshore winds. The island is designed for sports and beach activities and boasts the world’s longest ride at Kelly Slater’s new wave pool.
It is the site of the Velodrome construction scheduled for completion in 2025, a bike shop, a Colnago store with high-end equipment for sale and vintage Tour de France bikes on display, and the home of the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club.
Abu Dhabi Cycling Club Is Key to UAE’s Acceptance in Cycling World
The government-supported cycling club plays a pivotal role in advancing cycling initiatives in the emirate by organizing public and sports cycling events, fostering community engagement, and guiding investment efforts.
Its collaboration with governmental bodies, including municipalities and urban planners, reflects a commitment to enhancing cycling infrastructure to promote safety and accessibility, ultimately encouraging greater participation in cycling activities. It might hold the key to UAE’s future acceptance as a cycling nation—finding the first Emirati Tour de France rider.
The Abu Dhabi Cycling Club hosts 22 events each season, aiming to engage cyclists of diverse skill levels in community activities. With a focus on infrastructure development and sports leadership, participation rates are rising. The club prioritizes youth involvement, forming teams that compete locally, with 70% of its 90 riders aged between 11 and 18. By nurturing a love for cycling and fostering enjoyment of the sport, the club seeks to inspire and motivate the younger generation.
“We are planning to leave equipment at the club after the festival so that the young riders and other community members can experience MyWhoosh indoor cycling during the hot summer months,” Van den Dries noted.
Youth Development Brings International Cycling Success
They are beginning to see success, with several talented U23 riders joining the UAE Team Emirates Generation Z Continental Team and two female riders a part of the UAE Team Emirates ADQ Development Team.
22-year-old Safiya Al Sayegh is the first Emirati woman and only the second rider from the country to qualify for the road race at the Olympic Games, and she will represent the UAE in Paris. Visa and Emirates NBD partnered to sponsor Safiya Al Sayegh for the games and initiatives to foster health and fitness.
Professional contracts, Olympics, Tour de France selections, and massive infrastructure investments may not be enough to convince the world that the Emiratis’ intentions are pure.
The Nuance of Sports Washing, Sanctimony, and Over-Simplification
It’s crucial not to overlook the sportswashing aspect when acknowledging these initiatives, particularly considering the questions surrounding the region’s human rights record. Whether the critics see the UAE’s investment in professional cycling as a part of the country’s economic diversification plan or an ill-conceived attempt to gloss over the reported human abuses and gender inequality, the tangible attempts to engage all ages and aspects of the community in cycling and fitness adds complexity to the underlying motivations.
While some human rights indices note slight improvements in recent years, it’s important not to excuse unethical behavior. However, we must also avoid oversimplifying the issue or ignoring firsthand accounts when exploring the region.
It causes sanctimonious cycling fans to be skeptical of the UCI’s globalization of cycling and the UAE’s involvement. This debate challenges the notion that competitions should only be held in countries with clean records, highlighting that even democracies face human rights issues. For many fans, delving into these complexities may not produce a satisfactory outcome and shine light into their glass houses.
When examining the issue from various political perspectives, it’s arguable that many major cycling nations have questionable human rights records. For instance, the United States has faced criticism from The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for its treatment of child migrants at the southern border. The situation varies across different countries.
The Globalization Debate and Broader Impact of Cycling Investment
Cycling cannot afford to overlook the chance to inspire the next generation of youth, who are crucial for the sport’s long-term viability. These young individuals need positive examples of a healthy lifestyle, and exposing them to the human beauty of the racers and the spectacle of the events can captivate their interest. This engagement is critical in emerging countries, where cultivating a new wave of fans can contribute to the global growth and appeal of cycling.
Most sports sponsorship, marketing, and promotion efforts seek to boost image and appeal. However, when investment manipulates a country’s “soft power,” using culture and social values to sway public opinion, it shifts from marketing to propaganda. It blurs the distinction between genuine attraction and strategic influence.
What motivates a government to invest heavily in an extensive network of cycling tracks and bike paths, improve access to health and fitness opportunities, support grassroots racing and youth development, and fund a virtual cycling platform? Especially when high-profile events and professional teams often receive more attention, providing more value by diverting attention from underlying issues.
Watching Tadej Pogacar that evening, burdened with the task of showcasing UAE cycling to the world, simply wanting to ride and joke with young members of the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club, highlights the importance of addressing the dichotomy of the issue.
Semi-retired after more than 20 years as the owner and director of a private Orthopedic Physical Therapy practice, Chris now enjoys the freedom to dedicate himself to his passions—virtual cycling and writing.
Driven to give back to the sport that has enriched his life with countless experiences and relationships, he founded a non-profit organization, TheDIRTDadFund. In the summer of 2022, he rode 3,900 miles from San Francisco to his “Gain Cave” on Long Island, New York, raising support for his charity.
His passion for cycling shines through in his writing, which has been featured in prominent publications like Cycling Weekly, Cycling News, road.cc, Zwift Insider, Endurance.biz, and Bicycling. In 2024, he was on-site in Abu Dhabi, covering the first live, in-person UCI Cycling Esports World Championship.
His contributions to cycling esports have not gone unnoticed, with his work cited in multiple research papers exploring this evolving discipline. He sits alongside esteemed esports scientists as a member of the Virtual Sports Research Network and contributes to groundbreaking research exploring the new frontier of virtual physical sport. Chris co-hosts The Virtual Velo Podcast, too.
