Salalah International Cycling Tour Begins in Dhofar

Ninety-five cyclists representing 28 countries have gathered in Oman’s Dhofar Governorate for the sixth Salalah International Cycling Tour. Organised by Dhofar Municipality with the Oman Cycling Federation, the five-day event combines international competition with a showcase of the region’s natural and cultural attractions.

The tour opened with the second Dhofar Classic, a 98-kilometre one-day race from Al Haffa Souq to Hajeef. Four further stages will run from September 6 to 9. The first will cover 127 kilometres from Mughsail to Mirbat Fort, followed by a 108-kilometre route from Dahariz Beach to Wadi Darbat.

The third stage will be the longest, stretching 156 kilometres from Taqah Fort to the Samhan Mountain viewpoint. The final stage will cover 105 kilometres between Ain Razat and the Sultan Qaboos Youth Complex for Culture and Entertainment in Salalah.

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The Salalah International Cycling Tour represents an important milestone in the development of cycling in Oman.

Saif bin Sibaa Al Rashidi, chairman of the Oman Cycling Federation, described the tour as an important milestone for cycling in Oman. He said the federation wants an edition that combines intense competition with Dhofar’s scenery, while also building on earlier successes and raising the event’s standing in the region.

Organisers selected the timing after considering technical, organisational and tourism factors. Holding the tour during the final stages of the Khareef season is expected to reduce its impact on traffic and make it easier to provide long-distance race routes. The event also supports local riders by developing their skills, identifying young talent and encouraging cycling as a healthy lifestyle.

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We seek to deliver an exceptional edition that combines the intensity of sporting competition with the scenic beauty of Dhofar.