Dubai Residency Team Shines in Debut Cycling League Performance
Dubai's immigration department cycling team made a strong debut in the UAE's national road racing league, claiming first place in the under-23 category and second in the men's division after completing a challenging 99-kilometer race against the country's top cycling clubs.
The team's performance marks the beginning of the 2025-2026 season for the UAE Cycling Federation's domestic league, which features elite, under-23, and junior categories. This was Dubai Residency's first time competing in the national competition.
Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, said the results reflect the same determination his staff shows at work. He emphasized that investing in human resources goes beyond professional development to include building healthy, energetic teams that support Dubai's vision of becoming the world's most distinguished city for quality of life.
The cycling program fits into Dubai's broader push to promote community sports and workplace wellness. Government departments across the UAE have been expanding employee fitness initiatives as part of national health strategies.
Colonel Expert Khalid bin Medya Al Falasi, chairman of the Dubai Residency cycling team, credited the victory to continuous leadership support for community sports. The team followed a comprehensive training plan focused on endurance, fitness, and team building under professional sports management.
Captain Rashid Mohammed Al Marri, director of sports affairs, said the strong start demonstrates the team's high readiness and determination. The participation aims to foster positive competition among employees while promoting sports as a lifestyle, he added.
For the cycling community, Dubai Residency's entry brings more institutional backing to the sport. Government department teams often have stable funding and can attract talent, potentially raising the overall competition level in domestic leagues.
The team now prepares for upcoming races in the season-long competition, where they'll face established cycling clubs with deeper racing experience but likely fewer resources than a well-funded government program.
Sara Khaled