# Hudayriyat Velodrome: The UAE’s First Indoor UCI Cycling Arena _Reading time: 5 minutes_ ## **Introduction: A Landmark Moment for Cycling in the UAE** In a city rapidly becoming a global hub for active mobility, **Abu Dhabi’s newest jewel is about to rise**: the **Hudayriyat Velodrome**, the first indoor cycling track of its kind in the UAE and the region. Scheduled to open in **late 2025**, this state-of-the-art venue on **Hudayriyat Island** will host elite competitions, club training, community rides, and youth development programs—all under one futuristic roof. It’s more than just a cycling track. It’s a **statement of intent**: that Abu Dhabi is serious about becoming a **UCI Bike City** and regional capital for cycling. ## **What Is the Hudayriyat Velodrome?** A UCI-Certified Indoor Track in Abu Dhabi The Hudayriyat Velodrome will feature a **UCI-standard, banked indoor cycling track**, capable of hosting: - **Track cycling competitions** - **Elite athlete training** - **Time trials and sprints** - Community challenges It places Abu Dhabi alongside cities like London, Paris, and Berlin when it comes to **top-tier velodrome facilities**. **Who Is It For? Competitive, Community, and Youth Cyclists** Whether you’re a: - **Pro rider chasing milliseconds**, - **Junior cyclist in training**, - Or a **fitness enthusiast curious about track racing**, the velodrome has zones, coaching programs, and community events tailored to every skill level. ## **Key Features of the Hudayriyat Velodrome** ![](https://gocyc.ae/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/imgi_2_465082970_1570825256849143_8233868664321997429_n-1024x1024-1.jpg) **Indoor Cycling Arena Built to International Standards** - **Climate-controlled arena** for all-season access - UCI-compliant **track geometry, surfaces, and barriers** - High-capacity seating for events and spectators (3500 seats) **600m Rooftop Ramp: The First of Its Kind in the Region** The standout architectural feature? A **600-meter rooftop ramp** winding over the structure — offering an elevated track experience with skyline views and open-air training opportunities. This dual-level experience bridges: - **High-performance indoor cycling**. - And **recreational rooftop riding** under the Abu Dhabi sun. **Full-Service Amenities: Rentals, Retail, and Repair** Expect the velodrome to house: - **Wolfi’s Bike Shop** and **Yas Cycles** outlets - Fitting, service, and rentals for all age groups - A dedicated **repair and tech support zone** - A Health Cafe - A High Altitude training centre unit. Plus, cafés and lounges for post-ride refueling. **Where Is It Located? Cycling Heart of Hudayriyat Island** The velodrome sits at the epicenter of **Hudayriyat Leisure and Sports District**, just steps from: - **Paved cycling loops** (5, 10, 15 km) - **Trail X MTB trails** - **OCR parks, skateparks**, and the **Circuit X complex** For any rider, it means you can **move from track training to mountain biking to beach chilling** in one session. Read more about Al Hudayriyat’s Island amenities here. ## **UAE’s Position as a Global Cycling Destination** **Part of Bike Abu Dhabi & UCI Bike City Vision** The velodrome is the **centerpiece of Abu Dhabi’s long-term cycling strategy**, launched under: - The **Bike Abu Dhabi initiative** - The city’s designation as a **UCI Bike City** (the first in Asia) This places Abu Dhabi firmly on the international cycling map. **Hosting Future International Races and Camps** Once operational, the velodrome is expected to: - **Host UCI-sanctioned events,**** most notably the 2029 UCI Track World Championships.** - Attract **track cycling teams** for winter training camps - Serve as a base for regional championships ## **FAQs About the Hudayriyat Velodrome** **Q1: When will the Hudayriyat Velodrome open?** It is scheduled to open by **late 2025**, with final construction phases underway on Hudayriyat Island. **Q2: Is the velodrome open to the public or only professionals?** It will be open to **everyone**, elite athletes, amateurs, cycling clubs and the general public. **Q3: What is the capacity of the venue?** The velodrome is designed to seat **around 3,500 spectators**, supporting both local events and major international competitions. **Q4: What’s the purpose of the rooftop ramp?** The **600-meter rooftop cycling ramp** offers elevated outdoor training space with views over Hudayriyat and the city skyline, a rare feature globally. **Q5: Will rental bikes and repair services be available on-site?** Yes. A track cycling bike hire retail shop will be on-site of Al Hudayriyat Velodrome. **Q6: Is it part of a larger cycling network?** Absolutely. The velodrome is **centrally connected to Hudayriyat’s outdoor cycling tracks**, the **Trail X mountain biking trail**, and Abu Dhabi’s broader **1,270 km island cycling expansion**. ## **Conclusion: Raising the Bar for Middle East Cycling** The **Hudayriyat Velodrome** isn’t just another sporting venue, it’s a **landmark investment in cycling culture**, community wellness and elite athletic development. With its innovative design, community-first approach and global standards, it positions **Abu Dhabi as a cycling leader not just in the UAE, but across the Middle East, Asia and the World.** As part of the **Bike Abu Dhabi program** and the city’s **UCI Bike City legacy**, this velodrome will be a space where **dreams are built, medals are earned, and everyday people fall in love with the ride**. ## **📱 Stay Connected with GOCYC** Whether you’re training on the rooftop ramp, tracking intervals inside the velodrome, or exploring Hudayriyat’s extensive cycling loops, **GOCYC** keeps you connected to every pedal stroke. With the GOCYC app, you can: - 📍 **Discover** real-time route data across Abu Dhabi and the UAE - **Find events** like group rides, training camps, and races - **Bicycle** **rentals** anywhere in Abu Dhabi - Order a service van to work on your bicycle at-home Available now on **[iOS](https://apps.apple.com/ae/app/gocyc/id1662149433)** and **[Android](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amin.Gocyc&hl=en), GOCYC is your cycling dashboard, in your pocket.**