Al Qudra to Abu Dhabi

Route overview

Suits cyclists able to cover 160 km with minimal climbing on predominantly cycle paths.

160.5 km out-and-back cycle from Al Qudra to Abu Dhabi and back in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, mostly flat with 148 m elevation gain.

Starting from Al Qudra in Dubai at 88 m elevation, the route heads out on a largely flat profile descending to 2 m at 63.6 km. It is an out-and-back ride covering 160.5 km total with minimal climbing and descending, featuring just 0.1 km over 5%, 8%, and 10% gradients respectively. Surface is almost entirely paved (99%) with no gravel or unpaved sections. Most of the ride is on cycle paths (140.2 km, 89%), followed by 10.2 km on main roads, 4.9 km on quiet streets, and small sections on paths, motorway, and tracks. Main roads without a cycle lane total 11.3 km, including 4.6 km on roads with 80 km/h or higher speed limits. The longest named roads are Abu Dhabi Cycle Network Route 3 (91.7 km), Al Qudra Cycle Path Route 1 (31.1 km), and Route 3 (17 km). Key intermediate places are Al Layyan at 43.1 km, Al Samha at 79.2 km, and Mugatrah at 143.6 km. Facilities at the start and finish in Al Qudra include restaurants, convenience stores, bike rentals, drinking water, toilets, and a medical centre. From 79.3 km to 158.3 km there is a 79 km stretch with no café, shop, or drinking water available.

Highlights

• Al Layyan at 43.1 km
• Al Samha at 79.2 km
• Mugatrah at 143.6 km
• Mostly flat profile with 148 m elevation gain

Practical information

Surface

Mixed

Route shape

Out & back

Riding time

5½–8 hours riding

Season

November with temperatures around 26°C.

Best months

Dec to Feb — daily highs of 25–27 °C in those months

Know before you go

• 79 km longest stretch without café, shop or water from 79.3 km
• 11.3 km on main roads without cycle lane
• 4.6 km on roads with speed limits over 80 km/h

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