Al Qudra stick, loop and Solar Park

Route overview

Suits riders of any level looking for a flat 61.3 km spin, and a good session for steady tempo or a first long ride.

A flat 61.3 km loop out of Dubai on the Al Qudra cycle roads, taking in the stick, the loop and the Solar Park spur, with just 68 m of climbing.

The ride leaves Dubai and heads out along the Al Qudra stick, the long straight run that feeds the desert cycle roads. The suburb of Mugatrah is passed at 15.3 km, shortly before the lowest point of the whole route at 28 m, reached at 17.4 km. There is no sustained climbing anywhere: the total gain is only 68 m across 61.3 km, and roughly 69% of it comes in the first half. Beyond the loop section the route swings towards the Solar Park side, where the ground rises gently to the high point of 77 m at 43.2 km. The difference between the lowest and highest points is under 50 m, so the profile reads as a series of long, barely perceptible drags rather than distinct hills. The closing kilometres bring the loop back towards its start. Spicy Village Restaurant and a drinking water point both sit at 59.6 km, within a couple of kilometres of the finish, making them the natural stop at the end rather than a mid-ride refuel.

Highlights

• High point of 77 m at km 43.2 on the Solar Park side
• The Al Qudra stick and desert cycle loop
• Mugatrah at km 15.3
• Only 68 m of climbing over 61.3 km

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Loop

Riding time

1½–2½ hours riding

Season

Recordings span January to March, June, July, September and November, with temperatures from 16 °C to 31 °C; the cooler winter months are the more comfortable choice.

Know before you go

• No water or food listed until 59.6 km — carry everything you need
• Recorded temperatures up to 31 °C; little shade on open desert roads

Routes are for inspiration. Roads, surfaces and conditions change — check locally and ride within your limits.