AD Ports Group Gran Fondo Abu Dhabi

About the event

The Gran Fondo Abu Dhabi was first held in 2022 and was initially a community cycling race. As a qualifier of the UCI Gran Fondo World Series, the top 25% of each age category qualify for the Gran Fondo World Championships, but at least the top three. Results are classified in five-year age categories starting with 19–34, which also determine the start grids. Riders can take part with or without a licence; anyone who has been a member of a UCI team or scored UCI points in the current year is excluded from the rankings and World Championship qualification. Recumbent and triathlon bikes may start but cannot qualify.

The race is run by commissaires of the UAE national cycling federation, with anti-doping controls under UCI rules. Team vehicles may not enter the race convoy; registered vehicles may drive ahead and feed along the route but may not overtake the convoy. The start is at 7 am; the flat course has a few short, steep climbs.

Race packs are collected at the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club on Hudayriyat Island or at Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain, with a QR code and ID. The organiser planned to announce shuttle buses between Abu Dhabi and the start in Al Ain, parking and bike transport only shortly before the race (as of October 2026).