DUBAI // Major roads around the emirate will be closed to traffic for up to four hours a day for four days from Wednesday as the city gears up to host the Dubai Tour featuring some of the world's top cyclists.
Some of the busiest roads in Dubai will be temporarily shut to vehicles to make the four-stage 416.9 kilometre course safe for the 160 cyclists taking part.
Maj Gen Mohammed Al Zafeen, head of the Dubai Police traffic department, said: “The roads will gradually reopen one by one as soon as all the cyclists pass.”
He said traffic congestion is expected around the city due to security measures, with certain roads blocked for between two and three hours.
“We see this as something very important because it is the first time such an event will take place on the streets of Dubai.”
Gen Al Zafeen said the Dubai Tour will start at 1pm on Wednesday with cyclists setting off from the Ibis Hotel at the Dubai World Trade Centre and following a 9.9km course around Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard and back.
“Fortunately, the event is not taking place early in the morning when people are heading to their jobs. People would already be at work at around noon,” he said. “It would be favourable if drivers can avoid these place for two or three hours during which the race is taking place.”
On Thursday, when the tour will take a route through the city along Emirates Road and the Palm Jumeriah, commuters are advised to use Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road. However, there will be no alternatives to the main blocked roads on Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday.
“We are simply asking people to avoid these places for a few hours when the race is taking place,” said Gen Al Zafeen.
On Saturday the race will follow a 123km course that will pass through Jumeirah four times, meaning most roads in and out of the busy residential area will be closed.
“Jumeirah will be blocked from 11.30am until 3.30pm,” said Gen Al Zafeen. “Those living in the area should leave with their cars before the race starts if they have appointments scheduled.”
Gen Al Zafeen said the closure of roads in Jumeirah was causing the police the most concern as it is such a popular neighbourhood, particularly on a Saturday when most people are off work.
“There are inner roads in Jumeirah that are close to Al Wasl. Residents should try to park their cars there in case they need to use their vehicles. Fortunately, there is usually not much traffic on Saturday anyway.”
Police patrols will accompany the cyclists along the course, with more than 85 officers and 70 patrols distributed along the city’s streets and junctions.
“Hopefully we will not encounter any problems,” said Gen Al Zafeen.
dmoukhallati@thenational.ae
