As the UAE’s summer heat ramps up, with temperatures soaring well above 40°C, local cyclists often find their outdoor rides limited to early mornings or indoor trainers. For cyclists in Dubai and beyond, this is the perfect time to look abroad for unforgettable cycling adventures. Inspired by UAE’s own Tadej Pogačar and his stunning victory at Strade Bianche, the world of international cycling beckons. At Velo Presto, the UAE’s leading mobile bike services company, we’re passionate about helping you chase your cycling dreams. Whether it’s maintenance, repairs, or advice on transporting your bike, we’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best bucket list cycling events happening during the warmer UAE summer months. These events offer a chance to ride iconic routes, test your limits, and enjoy cooler climates. We’ll spotlight four standout options, explain why they’re must-do rides, and share practical tips for UAE cyclists planning to travel with their bikes.
Why Summer Pushes UAE Cyclists Overseas
The UAE cycling scene shines in the cooler months, with local sportives and desert rides drawing crowds. But from May to September, the scorching sun and humidity sideline long outdoor sessions. This is when road cycling holidays become a golden opportunity. Swapping the UAE’s summer for Europe’s milder weather lets you tackle some of the world’s most iconic gran fondos and sportives—events that blend challenge with celebration, perfect for amateurs dreaming big.
Here are ten bucket list cycling events between May and September that UAE cyclists should consider. Each offers a unique experience, and with Pogačar’s Strade Bianche triumph as inspiration, they’re ripe for your next adventure.
Top 10 Bucket List Cycling Events for UAE Cyclists
1. Gran Fondo New York (GFNY) – May
The Gran Fondo New York, held in May, starts on the streets of New York City and stretches 100 miles north to Bear Mountain. Riders face 2,400 meters of elevation gain across rolling countryside, with the iconic George Washington Bridge as the launch point. Known as the flagship of the global GFNY series, it draws thousands of cyclists for a ride that balances urban energy with scenic escapes. Shorter options make it approachable, while the vibrant atmosphere keeps spirits high.
2. RideLondon – May
Taking place in late May, RideLondon transforms London into a cyclist’s playground, closing roads for a 100-mile sportive through the capital and Surrey hills. The route weaves past landmarks like Trafalgar Square before dipping into lush countryside, with moderate climbs that suit a range of abilities. Part of a massive cycling festival, it attracts huge crowds, blending a big-city buzz with a relaxed pace that’s ideal for amateurs seeking a memorable ride.
3. Gran Fondo Stelvio – June
Held in June, the Gran Fondo Stelvio takes riders into Italy’s majestic Alps, starting in Bormio and peaking at the legendary Stelvio Pass. The full 153 km route packs in over 2,700 meters of climbing, though shorter distances (60 km and 138 km) cater to varied skill levels. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and winding switchbacks, this event offers a breathtaking backdrop and a festive finish, drawing cyclists eager for a summer challenge.
4. Maratona dles Dolomites – July
The Maratona dles Dolomites, set for July, unfolds across Italy’s Dolomite Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The longest route spans 138 km with 4,230 meters of elevation, tackling passes like Pordoi and Giau, while 55 km and 106 km options welcome less seasoned riders. With thousands of participants, the event feels like a rolling party, set against jagged peaks and alpine villages—a stunning escape from the UAE’s summer scorch.
5. L’Étape du Tour – July
In July, L’Étape du Tour invites amateurs to ride an actual Tour de France stage, with routes typically ranging from 130 to 170 km. Each year, the course changes—think Alpe d’Huez’s hairpins or the Pyrenees’ rugged climbs—delivering a pro-level experience without the pro pressure. Fully supported with aid stations, it’s a chance to pedal the same roads as cycling’s legends, soaking in the thrill of France’s summer landscapes.
6. Tour of Flanders Cyclo (We Ride Flanders) – June (Occasional Summer Shift)
Usually in April but occasionally shifting to June, the Tour of Flanders Cyclo lets riders tackle Belgium’s cobbled classics the day before the pros. The longest route, at 174 km, includes brutal climbs like the Paterberg and Oude Kwaremont, while shorter options ease the intensity. Steeped in cycling lore, this sportive winds through Flanders’ rolling fields, finishing with a well-earned beer and a taste of history.
7. Haute Route Alps – August
The Haute Route Alps, held in August, is a seven-day odyssey across France, Switzerland, and Italy, covering over 800 km and 20,000 meters of elevation. Riders conquer cols like Galibier and Izoard, with full support—mechanics, food stops, and more—keeping it manageable for dedicated amateurs. It’s an alpine immersion, swapping UAE’s August heat for crisp mountain air and postcard-worthy views.
8. Gran Fondo Mont Ventoux – June
In June, the Gran Fondo Mont Ventoux challenges riders to summit the “Giant of Provence” in southern France. The main 137 km route climbs 4,400 meters, crowned by Ventoux’s lunar-like peak, though shorter courses lighten the load. Starting in Vaison-la-Romaine, it’s a ride through Provence’s lavender fields and vineyards, blending beauty with a tough but rewarding ascent.
9. Ötztaler Radmarathon – August
Austria’s Ötztaler Radmarathon, held in late August, is a grueling 238 km loop through the Tyrolean Alps, with 5,500 meters of climbing across passes like Kühtai and Timmelsjoch. Shorter routes offer a taste of the challenge, set against dramatic peaks and valleys. Starting in Sölden, it’s a test of stamina amid some of Europe’s most striking summer scenery.
10. Leadville Trail 100 MTB – August
Held in mid-August, the Leadville Trail 100 MTB takes riders high into Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, starting and ending in the historic mining town of Leadville. This grueling 100-mile mountain bike race climbs over 3,400 meters, with altitudes topping 12,000 feet on rugged trails and fire roads. From the lung-busting ascent of Columbine Mine to the relentless rollers of Powerline, it’s a test of endurance and grit. Open to amateurs willing to train hard, it’s a raw, high-altitude adventure set against stunning alpine vistas, perfect for UAE cyclists seeking a summer mountain escape.
Preparing for Your Summer Cycling Adventure
Traveling for these bucket list cycling events is exhilarating, but it takes some planning—especially for your bike. At Velo Presto, we’ve guided countless UAE cyclists through the process, and here’s what you need to know.
Getting Your Bike There Safely
Your bike is your companion on these rides, so transporting it right is crucial. We reccomend Bike Box Alan TriAero Easy Fit box, a durable, lightweight option we stock at Velo Presto, that comes with a 7 year warranty. Here’s how to prep:
- Packing Tips: Remove wheels, and take off pedals. Pad delicate areas with foam or clothes. With the TriAero Easy Fit box there’s no need to remove the handlebars. Our Bike Box Packing service can do it all for you, ensuring your bike arrives ready to roll.
- Airline Know-How: Emirates and Etihad often treat bike boxes as regular luggage if under 32 kg, check ahead to avoid surprises.
Packing for the Journey
Summer in the UAE means light gear, but these events call for more:
- Clothing: Pack layers, a jacket for chilly descents, breathable kit for climbs. Europe’s weather can shift fast.
- Must-Haves: Helmet, shoes, gloves, Mini FumpaPump and spares like tubes.
- Fuel: Events offer feed zones, but bring a bottle and gels for backup.
Test your setup on a local ride, maybe a lap of Al Qudra, to feel confident before you hit the road.
Velo Presto – Your Cycling Ally
The UAE’s summer offers the perfect excuse to chase bucket list cycling events overseas. Inspired by Pogačar, these ten rides—spanning May to September—offer everything from alpine epics to historic cobbles. With Velo Presto’s support, you can trade desert heat for cool climbs and epic stories. So, grab your bike, plan your trip, and pedal into a summer adventure you’ll never forget. Let us help you turn your summer escape into a triumph.
At Velo Presto, we’re the UAE’s go-to mobile bike experts, delivering bicycle maintenance, repairs, and fitting right to your door. From prepping your bike for cycling events in Dubai to packing it for a Gran Fondo, our team brings experience and passion to every job. We stock top brands such as Bike Box Alan, Rudy Project, BiSaddle and Le Col, and know what UAE cyclists need to shine, whether at home or abroad.
