UAE Tour Women 2026: Dubai Road Closures and Traffic Disruptions Explained
Dubai is hosting a major international sporting spectacle this week — the UAE Tour Women 2026 — and while cycling fans are in for exciting action, motorists and commuters need to prepare for temporary road closures and traffic disruptions in the city.
What Is the UAE Tour Women 2026?
The UAE Tour Women 2026 is one of the most prestigious events in women’s professional road cycling. It forms part of the UCI Women’s World Tour and attracts elite riders and teams from around the world. Although stages are held in different emirates, Dubai plays host to a key segment of the race on Friday, February 6, 2026.
How Traffic Will Be Affected in Dubai
To ensure the safety of riders and spectators, Dubai authorities — led by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) — have announced temporary road closures and strategic traffic management plans on race day.
Race Day Schedule & Traffic Window
- The UAE Tour Women stage in Dubai is scheduled to run between approximately 12:00 PM and 4:30 PM on Friday.
- During this active period, road closures will not be continuous but rolling and temporary. That means major roads will be closed for brief intervals (around 10–15 minutes) as the cyclists pass through, then reopened shortly thereafter.
Key Roads & Areas Affected
Officials have outlined several key road sections that are expected to experience closures or restricted access as part of the race route:
- Umm Suqeim Street
- Hessa Street
- Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street
- Expo Road
- Lehbab / Al Qudra Road
- Saih Al Salam Street
- Saih Al Dahal Street
These roads, which traverse both central and suburban parts of Dubai, form major arterial routes connecting residential, commercial, and leisure areas.
Because closures will be in motion as the cycling peloton advances, motorists could face varying delays depending on timing and location.
Traffic Management Measures
To help minimize disruption, Dubai’s traffic planners have introduced several key strategies:
Rolling Closures
Instead of shutting roads for long periods, closures will follow the race’s progress, reopening once cyclists have safely passed the segment.
Alternate Routes & Diversions
Drivers are advised to use alternative routes where possible and plan journeys well in advance, especially if they must travel through areas near the race route during the closure window.
Public Transport Adjustments
While bus routes and taxis may operate with adjusted schedules or diversions, the metro and tram services are expected to run normally — presenting a viable option for commuters wishing to avoid road congestion.
Impact on Daily Commuting
The UAE Tour Women stage in Dubai is expected to draw spectators and cycling teams across the city, creating both excitement and logistical challenges:
- Short Delays: Commuters along the race route should expect intermittent delays during the afternoon race window.
- Variable Travel Times: Depending on when and where drivers intersect with the temporary closures, some journeys may take longer than usual.
- Traffic Police & Signage: RTA traffic police and road message signs will guide drivers and help manage the flow around closure zones.