International triathlon series, Challenge Family, has unveiled Challenge Sir Bani Yas in Abu Dhabi, UAE, as its latest event expansion.
Set to be held on April 3-7, 2025, Challenge Family states that its newest event marks the arrival of the Middle East’s first long distance triathlon, with a 3.8km swim, 180m bike and 42.2km, alongside a middle distance option (1.9km swim, 90km bike and 21.1km run), and a host of community events and activities for all ages.
Challenge Sir Bani Yas takes place on one of the largest natural islands in the United Arab Emirates. Hosted by ADNEC Group, Challenge Family points out that the event… ‘not only marks a first for the Middle East but also the triathlon world with its unique format that embraces the region’s culture and Challenge Family’s commitment to athlete experience.’
Billed as a unique triathlon experience, Challenge Sir Bani Yas is a five-day racing and cultural undertaking that will take place on April 3-7, 2025, for the whole family, based on Sir Bani Yas Island.
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, said “The introduction of this race aligns with ADNEC Group’s strategy to cultivate and draw major international events across several crucial sectors.
“ADNEC Group has a comprehensive vision and action plan aimed at ensuring the success of the challenge, positioning it as the premier international race drawing athletes and visitors globally.
“Sir Bani Yas Island was selected due to its tourism potential, advanced infrastructure, and exceptional location, all of which make it conducive to hosting this event successfully and optimising its execution.”
Adding to the prestige of the event, the Abu Dhabi Sports Council is collaborating with ADNEC Group to help bolster Abu Dhabi as a leading international sports destination.
H.E. Arif Al Awani, Secretary General of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said “We are delighted to partner with ADNEC Group, offering comprehensive technical and logistical support to host the inaugural Challenge Sir Bani Yas.
“Our aim is to ensure the event reflects the emirate’s esteemed reputation and stature at both regional and international levels.
“Organising these full distance races for the first time in the Middle East underscores Abu Dhabi’s capacity to host large-scale international sporting events. It also aligns with our vision to establish Abu Dhabi as a global sports hub, in accordance with our strategic goals of solidifying the emirate’s sports infrastructure and delivering a world-class experience for participants, spectators, and athletes’ families alike.”
Challenge Family CEO, Jort Vlam, added “Triathlon has never seen anything like Challenge Sir Bani Yas.
“Nowhere else in the world can athletes enjoy such an all-encompassing experience in such a spectacular setting with everything laid on for them and their families, thanks to the unrivalled Middle Eastern hospitality.
“Ten years ago, we introduced an international middle distance event to the region and now we are excited to return with the UAE’s first long distance race. We are looking forward to working with the local ADNEC team and stakeholders, including the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, to together build the most sought-after triathlon festival in the world.”
The Challenge Sir Bani Yas swim is set in the clear waters of the Arabian Gulf and is positioned on the southeast of the island, protected from swells, and offering calm waters.
The bike follows the smooth fast rolling surface of the ring road circuit, taking athletes around the entire island with a chance to catch a glimpse of the abundant wildlife (the cheetahs and hyenas are safely in enclosures!) and the scenic backdrop.
The newly laid road ensures a smooth ride, with no traffic to contend with. While the ring road is flat, the island’s connecting roads that wind through the centre of the island will test athletes’ climbing legs and offer views.
Challenge Family adds that… ‘To finish, the run is a flat and smooth-running course over one of the most scenic and unique race routes, the aqua blue Arabian Gulf in full view, rugged natural landscapes, and native wildlife to race against as you approach the finish line.’
Sir Bani Yas Island itself is home to more than 17,000 free-roaming animals, including Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes, hyenas, and cheetahs. Known for its natural beauty the island offers an array of tourism activities and heritage sites to discover and explore during a multi-day experience.
