Abu Dhabi will host the much-anticipated Cyber Run & Ride community event on 17-18 January 2026, seamlessly blending running and cycling activities in a unique initiative designed to promote an active lifestyle and raise awareness of technology and digital security.
The event, organised by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and sponsored by the UAE Cybersecurity Council, aims to foster community engagement, support healthy living, and enhance digital awareness. Activities will take place within a dedicated event village, offering a variety of community activities and interactive experiences. The environment promises to engage participants of all ages, combining sport with practical technical knowledge in a dynamic, safe setting.
Participants will have the opportunity to join various running races on 17 January, with distances including half marathon, 10km, 5km, and 2.5km. On 18 January, the event will shift focus to a non-timed cycling participation, encouraging even more involvement from the community.
According to Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, Cyber Run & Ride “reflects the belief that a well-informed family and physically and mentally healthy individuals form the first line of defence against rapidly evolving digital challenges.” He highlighted increasing threats from criminal networks exploiting cyberspace and social media platforms, especially targeting youth and children, stressing the critical need for comprehensive family and community awareness.
Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti further emphasized that the event “is not merely a sporting activity, but a broader awareness message highlighting the importance of adopting healthy lifestyles and engaging in positive activities, which play a vital role in protecting individuals from cybercrime and online drug trafficking schemes.” He underscored the close link between physical and mental health and digital security, explaining that a regular physical activity routine “enhances focus, raises awareness, and helps build balanced personalities capable of distinguishing between safe behaviours and risky digital practices.” He also stated, “Families must play a critical role by monitoring and guiding children, fostering open dialogue, and educating them on cybersecurity practices.” Dr Al Kuwaiti concluded by reaffirming that such initiatives “reflect the UAE’s commitment to building a healthy and digitally secure society, calling on community members to actively participate in events that enhance awareness, promote prevention, and reinforce social responsibility values.”
Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, stated that the event “aligns with the council’s vision of promoting community sports.” He added, “We aim through Cyber Run & Ride to encourage community members to adopt an active lifestyle while delivering an integrated sporting experience that combines entertainment and awareness, ultimately enhancing quality of life in Abu Dhabi.” Al Awani also noted that the partnership with the Cybersecurity Council coincides with the announcement of 2026 as the Year of the Family, supporting national agenda objectives and reinforcing the significance of family cohesion as the backbone of a robust and prosperous society.
Further details, including event routes, accompanying activities, and the online registration link, will be released soon.
Cyber Run & Ride builds on the successful foundation of the inaugural Run & Ride event, which took place on 18 February 2024 along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, attracting thousands and strengthening its status as a flagship community initiative for health and sport.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
