Thursday, 12 February 2026| United Arab Emirates| PUBLISH TIME: 11:25 pm
The UAE Tour 2026 is just around the corner, and the excitement is building across the Emirates and the world. Whether you are a local fan or part of the global cycling community, our guide will help you learn more about the teams, riders, and routes in detail.
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UAE Tour 2026: Teams, Riders, Stages and Complete Guide to Race
The Middle East’s premier cycling event, the UAE Tour 2026, is back for its eighth edition. Starting on Monday, February 16, this race brings together the elite of the UCI WorldTour to compete across the diverse landscapes of all seven emirates.
The Stars of UAE Tour 2026
Meet the top contenders and world-class cyclists competing for the red jersey.
While the three-time champion Tadej Pogacar is absent, the UAE Tour 2026 features a star-studded lineup. UAE Team Emirates will look to defend their home turf with a powerful squad, supported by fans from both the UAE and the international cycling scene.
- Isaac Del Toro: The 22-year-old Mexican sensation is the designated leader for UAE Team Emirates.
- Adam Yates: A former winner (2020) and a veteran who knows these desert roads perfectly.
- Remco Evenepoel: Representing Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, the Belgian superstar is a top favorite following his hot start to the season.
- Lennert Van Eetvelt: The surprise 2024 champion returns to prove his victory was no fluke.
- Antonio Tiberi: The rising Italian star will be looking to dominate the mountain stages.
7 Stages of the UAE Tour: The Route Map
A breakdown of the 7-day journey from Madinat Zayed to the Abu Dhabi finish line.
The pro cycling event in UAE offers a mix of high-speed sprints and grueling mountain climbs. Each stage is designed to showcase the beauty of the country, from the Liwa desert to the peaks of Ras Al Khaimah.
- Stage 1 (Feb 16): Madinat Zayed to Liwa Palace (144km Sprint). A battle against the desert winds.
- Start: 1:20 PM; Estimated Finish: 4:30 PM
- Stage 2 (Feb 17): Al Hudayriyat Island (12.2km ITT). A high-speed race against the clock.
- Start: 1:05 PM; Estimated Finish: 3:30 PM
- Stage 3 (Feb 18): Umm Al Quwain to Jebel Mobrah (183km Climb). The first test for the mountain specialists.
- Start: 12:30 PM; Estimated Finish: 5:00 PM
- Stage 4 (Feb 19): Fujairah Loop (182km Sprint). Featuring the scenic enclaves of Hatta and Masfut.
- Start: 1:00 PM; Estimated Finish: 5:00 PM
- Stage 5 (Feb 20): Dubai Stage (166km Sprint). A city race finishing at Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart University.
- Start: 1:30 PM; Estimated Finish: 5:00 PM
- Stage 6 (Feb 21): Al Ain Museum to Jebel Hafeet (168km Climb). The iconic “Queen Stage” that usually decides the winner.
- Start: 1:00 PM; Estimated Finish: 5:00 PM
- Stage 7 (Feb 22): Zayed National Museum to Abu Dhabi Breakwater (149km Sprint). The grand finale in the capital.
- Start: 1:15 PM; Estimated Finish: 4:30 PM
(Note: All times are in UAE Local Time).
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Participating Teams and Global Impact
Information on the 21 world-class teams competing in the 2026 edition.
The UCI World Tour UAE attracts all 18 top-tier UCI WorldTeams. This global event reaches millions of viewers worldwide through broadcasts on Abu Dhabi Sports and Dubai Sports, highlighting the UAE’s status as a global sports hub.
- Top WorldTeams: Ineos Grenadiers, Visma-Lease a Bike, Soudal-Quick-Step, and Movistar Team.
- ProTeams: Three invited teams, including Tudor Pro Cycling and Pinarello-Q36.5.
- Broadcast: Live coverage ensures that cycling fans in Dubai and global audiences can follow every pedal stroke.
- National Pride: The event fosters a culture of fitness and health among UAE residents and children.
The Legacy of Cycling in the Emirates
How the UAE Tour has become a symbol of the nation’s sporting ambition.
Since its inception in 2019, the race has grown into a major fixture in the cycling race schedule 2026. It represents the UAE’s commitment to hosting world-class events and promoting an active lifestyle for its citizens and residents.
- Unifying the Emirates: The race travels through all seven emirates, showcasing the unique heritage of each region.
- Youth Inspiration: Seeing world-class riders encourages the next generation of UAE cyclists.
- Economic Impact: Thousands of visitors and support staff boost the local tourism and hospitality sectors.
FAQ
1. Who won the UAE Tour last year? The 2025 edition was won by Tadej Pogacar of UAE Team Emirates.
2. Where can I watch the UAE Tour 2026 on TV? The race is broadcast live on Abu Dhabi Sports and Dubai Sports.
3. Why is Jonas Vingegaard not racing this year? Sadly, Jonas Vingegaard had to withdraw due to illness and a recent crash that delayed his season debut.
4. What is the most difficult stage of the UAE Tour 2026? Stage 6, finishing at the top of Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain, is widely considered the most difficult and decisive stage.
Conclusion
As the world’s best riders gather for the UAE Tour 2026, the country prepares for a week of high-octane action. Whether you are watching from the roadside or on TV, this race is a testament to the UAE’s incredible sporting spirit.
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