L'Étape Dubai By Tour De France Announces New Routes For 2026

L'Étape Dubai by Tour de France, set to take place on the 24th and 25th of January 2026, is expanding its horizons with fresh race routes and a broader range of activities leading up to and during the event weekend.

Presented by Škoda and supported by the Dubai Sports Council, this event invites amateur cyclists, families, and cycling enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the essence of the world-famous Tour de France, right in the heart of the UAE.

This forthcoming edition promises a scenic start from Dubai Design District (D3), guiding participants through Dubai's iconic landmarks, and concluding at Expo Village Park. With a variety of routes, including the challenging 112 km 'Epic Race’ and the more manageable 61 km 'Classic Race’, the event caters to different skill levels, ensuring both enjoyment and challenge for all riders.

The 2026 edition also includes a non-competitive program on Saturday at Expo Village Park, featuring a Family Ride (20 km) and Kids' Race, ranging from 300 meters to 1.8 km. These additions aim to foster a festival atmosphere, celebrating cycling across all ages and abilities. The courses will offer picturesque views of downtown Dubai and feature new loops, such as one around Global Village, allowing participants to take in even more of Dubai's attractions.

In true Tour de France fashion, cyclists will have the opportunity to participate in sprint sections, vie for the coveted jerseys, and even cycle alongside Tour de France legends. The event will culminate at Expo Village Park, where cyclists can celebrate their achievements in an atmosphere that honors the spirit of the prestigious race.

The Race Village at Expo will serve as the event's nucleus, offering an improved range of activities and experiences throughout the weekend, thanks to the support of Škoda and other partners. The village will reflect the high standards set by the inaugural edition, which was praised for its organization and the diversity of programs available to participants.

To further promote cycling culture in Dubai, a series of social rides will be organized in the months leading up to the event. These rides, guided by seasoned cycling professionals, aim to bring the community together, prepare competitors for the main event, and maintain a focus on cycling throughout the season.

The inaugural edition of L'Étape Dubai welcomed over 1,000 participants, setting a record for the largest first-edition amateur cycling event in the UAE. With the 2026 edition aiming to attract up to 2,000 participants, it promises to further cement Dubai's reputation as a burgeoning hub for cycling enthusiasts. The event will continue to offer a mix of competitive and family-friendly activities, showcasing the city's passion for cycling on a grander scale.

Eissa Sharif from the Dubai Sports Council expressed his delight at the success of the inaugural edition, stating, "The success of this first edition is a testament to the capability of our national talents in organising world-class events and delivering an outstanding sporting and organisational experience for both participants and visitors." He emphasized the event's alignment with Dubai's vision to become a global sports hub and its potential to engage youth and the community in sports activities.

Fairouz Al Qazi, race director, and Antoine Quiers, project manager at A.S.O., both highlighted the event's rapid establishment as a premier amateur cycling platform in the region. They underscored the collaborative effort of all stakeholders in ensuring the event's success and voiced their anticipation for an even bigger second edition in 2026.

Lukas Honzak of Škoda Middle East reflected on Škoda’s long-standing relationship with cycling and the Tour de France. He expressed pride in supporting Dubai's ambition to become a leading sports and cycling destination and excitement for Škoda's expanded involvement in the 2026 Race Village and community activities.