The AlUla Tour 2026 is set to take place from January 27 to January 31, 2026, as one of the first major stage races of the international cycling season. The event will bring elite professional cyclists to Saudi Arabia to compete over five days across varied terrain and iconic landscapes.
For the first time, the AlUla Tour will be part of the UCI ProSeries calendar, placing it one level below the top tier of the WorldTour. This marks a significant upgrade from previous editions of the race and is expected to attract a stronger field of teams and riders.
Organisers have released the official route, which includes five stages over distances ranging from 142 to 184 kilometres. The race begins and ends at different points within the AlUla region. The first stage starts and finishes at the AlUla Camel Cup Track, while the final stage covers a challenging course from AlUla Old Town to the Skyviews of Harrat Uwayrid.
This year’s race features several notable sprinters and strong competitors. Jonathan Milan and Tim Merlier, riders known for their sprinting prowess, are among those expected to contend for stage victories. Milan has previously won races at the AlUla Tour, and Merlier has been successful in prior editions.
The AlUla Tour is part of a broader sports calendar in the region that highlights Saudi Arabia as a growing hub for international sporting events in winter. The tour follows other activities in the area, such as the AlUla Desert Polo tournament and the AlUla Trail Race, which attract both athletes and visitors from around the world.
Organisers have designed the route to showcase the unique natural and historical beauty of the AlUla region. Stages pass through desert landscapes, rocky outcrops, and near cultural heritage sites. This setting gives the race a distinctive identity compared to many other international cycling events.
Many top teams and riders will take part in the 2026 edition. According to listings from professional cycling databases, teams from the UCI WorldTeam and ProTeam categories are expected to participate. Names such as Tom Pidcock, Jan Christen and Milan Fretin appear on startlists, signalling strong competition across the field.
In recent years, the AlUla Tour has become a key fixture in the sport’s early season, providing riders with a competitive environment just before other major stage races begin. The upgrade to ProSeries status confirms Saudi Arabia’s growing role in professional cycling and sports tourism.
Fans can follow the race through official broadcasters and cycling media outlets, with live coverage and updates available throughout the five days. The event is expected to draw international attention, combining elite competition with striking scenery and a cultural backdrop.
The 2026 AlUla Tour promises a blend of high-level sport and regional showcase that aims to appeal to both cycling enthusiasts and global audiences. With its elevated status and strong roster of competitors, the race is positioned to be one of the highlights of the cycling calendar early in the year.
