AlUla Tour: Saudi Arabia Set to Host the World's Elite Cyclists in 2024

• AlUla's unique desert tracks await top professional cyclists.
• The fourth edition of the race returns from January 30 to February 3
• Over 119 elite riders from 17 teams, including Saudi Arabia’s brightest prospects

Renowned cyclists and elite teams are gearing up to embark on a journey to Saudi Arabia at the beginning of the upcoming year, following the announcement of dates for the rebranded AlUla Tour by organizers.

The upcoming edition of the race, which is making a comeback for its fourth edition, is set to take place under the rebranded name AlUla Tour, and it has been scheduled to unfold from January 30 to February 3.

The Ministry of Sport and The Royal Commission for AlUla will orchestrate the event in partnership with the Saudi Cycling Federation and the International Cycling Union (UCI).

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The AlUla Tour is eagerly anticipated to host a significant contingent of over 119 cyclists representing 17 teams on a global scale, encompassing elite UCI World Tour teams, UCI Continental teams, and the most promising cycling talents emerging from Saudi Arabia.

The race is strategically positioned as a vital element within the AlUla Moments sporting season, contributing to the overall excitement and engagement of this sporting extravaganza.

The five-stage tour is categorised as a UCI Asia Tour event and is classified as a category 2.1 competition.

Having inaugurated its first race in 1999, Saudi Arabia has consistently played host to seven professional cycling tours, and in 2020, the prestigious Saudi Tour seamlessly integrated into the esteemed UCI Asia Tour, further solidifying its standing on the international cycling stage.

At the end of this year, comprehensive information pertaining to the confirmed teams, participating riders, and the stages for the highly anticipated 2024 AlUla Tour is scheduled to be officially unveiled.

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“The AlUla Tour has emerged as a major local, regional and international event in recent years. We look forward to welcoming the sport’s best cyclists in one of the sport’s most unique locations; showcased to the world," said Abdullah bin Ali Al Wathlan, chairman of the Saudi Cycling Federation and vice chairman of the Arab Cycling Federation, per Experiencealula

"The AlUla Tour, alongside our global cycling partners, are creating a legacy in this country with more and more people getting access to a sustainable sport that is inspiring people to move, be active and [stay] healthy.”

Collaborating closely with the Saudi Cycling Federation, the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) is proactively establishing pathways for cycling involvement, catering to diverse levels of participants and enthusiasts.

This initiative entails organising two mass participation rides aligned with the AlUla Tour, accommodating both junior cyclists and the wider public, as part of the comprehensive efforts by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and the Saudi Cycling Federation.

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Moreover, the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has undertaken environmentally conscious initiatives, including the development of local bike tracks, hubs, desert biking tours, mountain biking options, and the incorporation of electric bikes at Hegra.

“The new AlUla Tour promises to take cycling to another level this year. Welcoming the sport’s elite talent and teams on the UCI Asian Tour across five challenging stages showcases the best of AlUla as a sporting destination," said Phillip Jones, RCU chief tourism officer, via thealutatour.

"We are just about to open our brand new 45km bike track for road cyclists which is set to be one of most stunning dedicated cycling routes in the world. We really believe AlUla has the potential to become the cycling capital of Saudi Arabia as we create more opportunities for people to watch, be inspired and ride with one the country’s fastest growing sports.”

The AlUla Tour is an integral part of the broader 'Sports Events' festivals featured on this season's AlUla Moments calendar, which spans various events such as the AlUla Trail Race (January 11-12), AlUla Desert Polo (January 17-20), and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup 2024 (scheduled for February), with additional events yet to be disclosed.