Of the many new features in the upcoming Dubai Tour, scheduled from January 31 to February 4, the most significant is that for the first time it’s a five-stage race.
The 2017 race will open the Middle East season with Dubai as frontrunners in a quartet of races, all in February.
Which stage are you looking forward to the most?
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Stage 1: Nakheel Stage (181 KM)
On the first day, the 181km Nakheel Stage, the route will take in some typical Dubai landmarks including the Al Qudra bike path where the teams usually do their last preparations on the eve of Dubai Tour, and the Camel Track, home of the traditional races.
Then there are some of the city’s most ambitious construction projects: Jumeirah Golf Estates, Jumeirah Islands and finally, Palm Jumeirah, a world-renowned icon of Dubai, and the traditional seat of a sprint over the waterfront in front of the Atlantis “door”.
Stage 2: Ras Al Khaimah Stage (188 KM)
The following day, February 1, the Ras Al Khaimah Stage sees the peloton ride through four different Emirates: Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah.
On a flat route near the coast we discover the Dubai Design District, the Sharjah University and the Al Marjan Island complex, the shaped coral archipelago of four artificial islands: Breeze, Treasure, Dream and View Island.
Stage 3: Dubai Silicon Oasis – Dubai to Al Aqah (200 KM)
The third stage, the Dubai Silicon Oasis Stage, from Dubai to Al Aqah, is another new feature for the 2017 Dubai Tour.
Last February the Fujairah seafront witnessed the victory of Marcel Kittel in a compelling sprint. In 2017, however, the peloton will continue on the Fujairah coast that overlooks the Indian Ocean until Al Aqah.
Stage 4: Westin Stage (172 KM)
The fourth stage, the Westin Stage, is a modern classic through the deserts of Dubai, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, to reach Hatta Dam.
There are two climbs up to a 11% gradient before the finale to the dam itself. The short stretch of about 200 meters has always rewarded the puncheurs but, despite the inclination from 12% to 17%, never upset the general classification.
It’s certainly an iconic stage and features the most beautiful, dramatic landscape.
Stage 5: Meraas Stage (124 KM)
The last day, the Meraas Stage, will be a spectacular parade of 124km entirely in the city of Dubai.
Along the way the peloton will celebrate the most famous monuments and landmarks: firstly the astonishing Meydan Racecourse, home of the world’s richest horse race (Dubai World Cup), then the family-oriented Mushrif Park, Al Mamzar, the historical Deira, the famous Port Rashid, and the iconic Union Flag.
The grand finale, in the shadow of the Burj Khalifa and in the heart of the spectacular brand new City Walk area, is the Dubai Tour’s last stunning sprint.
