In November 2024, Dubai delivered a landmark moment in triathlon history. Under blue skies and buzzing anticipation, it hosted the inaugural T100 Grand Final, where Marten Van Riel and Taylor Knibb were crowned world champions in front of a global audience. But beyond the podium, it was a proving ground – for organisers, athletes, and the city itself.
With less than 50 days to go until the 2025 edition, this post offers a trusted recap and preview: what made T100 Dubai special, what to expect in the next chapter, and how triathletes based in the UAE or travelling in can best prepare for this world-class event.
The Highlights of T100 Dubai 2024
The 2024 race cemented Dubai’s place on the global triathlon calendar. The city hosted the climactic event of the new T100 Triathlon World Tour, featuring a 100km format (2km swim / 80km bike / 18km run) that challenged even the sport’s elite.
Key moments from 2024:
- Marten Van Riel surged to his first T100 men’s title with a dominant performance.
- Taylor Knibb capped an outstanding season to win the women’s crown.
- Alistair Brownlee returned to the podium with a gritty, fan-favourite performance.
From an athlete’s perspective, the event offered:
- Closed roads and a well-organised course that balanced speed and technical challenge.
- A supportive local crowd and finish-line atmosphere, especially appreciated by age-groupers.
- The feeling of racing a world tour final, right in the UAE’s backyard.
Though there were minor teething issues (including a revised bike course and dual transitions), the overall experience was praised for its professionalism, safety, and spirit. For many triathletes in the region, it was a taste of the future.
Looking Ahead: T100 Dubai 2025 Preview
Scheduled for 13–16 November 2025, T100 Dubai returns as part of the now-established global tour. Building on last year’s success, the 2025 edition is set to offer even more for both pro and amateur athletes.
What’s new or confirmed for 2025?
- Two race options: The signature 100km event and a new Sprint Triathlon (750m swim / 20km bike / 5km run), ideal for newer athletes.
- World-class production: Expect improved signage, clearer transition logistics, and more engaging spectator zones.
- Festival atmosphere: Food trucks, merchandise, music, and finisher perks like free race photos.
Whether you’re racing or supporting, the event has evolved into a triathlon celebration – with Dubai as its proud host.
Understanding the T100 Dubai Course Map
While the official 2025 course map is yet to be finalised, athletes can anticipate a layout similar to last year, likely centred around Meydan Racecourse.
Course overview:
- Swim (2km): Calm, protected water; likely a single or double loop with minimal current.
- Bike (80km): Fast, flat tarmac on closed urban roads. Aero-friendly with some technical turns.
- Run (18km): Multi-lap course, potentially on shaded boulevards with great crowd support.
The dual transition zones from 2024 may return, so familiarising yourself with logistics will be key. Printed maps are recommended, and hydration planning is essential.
How to Train & Prepare for T100 Dubai
With just weeks remaining, now is the time to sharpen your training and finalise logistics. Whether you’re an age-grouper in the UAE or travelling in, focused preparation makes the difference.
Key preparation tips:
- Focus on specificity: Prioritise race-pace efforts, especially bricks (bike + run) over T100 distances.
- Fine-tune your taper: Start reducing volume 2–3 weeks before race day while keeping intensity.
- Simulate race-day conditions: Train in similar temperatures and terrain to build comfort.
- Open water swims: Get in at least 2–3 open water sessions to boost confidence.
- Nutrition: Lock in your fuelling strategy and test it during longer sessions.
For those needing guidance in the final stretch, Sported Coaching offers last-mile tuning plans and race-week advice.
Travelling for T100 Dubai? Here’s What You Need to Know
For international athletes or those flying in from neighbouring countries, T100 Dubai is an incredible experience. With the right planning, you can make the most of your time in the UAE.
Travel logistics & essentials:
- Accommodation: Stay near Meydan or Downtown Dubai for easy access to the venue and athlete check-in.
- Transport: Dubai is highly connected. If bringing your own bike, confirm airline policies and consider local bike mechanics for assembly.
- Weather: Expect mild mornings (~22°C) and warmer afternoons (~30°C). Hydration and heat acclimatisation are key.
- Race pack pickup: Arrive at least two days before to settle in, check in, and do a light course recon.
Connect with the local triathlon community:
- Visit Sported’s Triathlon Hub in Surf House, whether for last-minute gear, expert advice, or a pre-race coffee.
- Join a local TriDubai open water swim or group ride, many welcome international guests.
- Follow Sported UAE on Instagram for community events and updates leading up to race week.
Dubai’s triathlon scene is open, inclusive, and well-established. If you’re racing from abroad, you won’t feel like a stranger.
Why UAE Athletes Should Race T100 Dubai
Dubai is more than a stop on the tour. It’s a home race for the growing triathlon community in the UAE, and a unique chance to:
- Benchmark against the world without long-haul travel.
- Enjoy the comfort of racing in familiar terrain, climate, and culture.
- Meet and network with local and international triathletes.
- Be part of a movement, showing that Middle East triathlon is here to stay.
For visiting triathletes, T100 Dubai offers a fast, scenic, and well-organised event that combines racing with a world-class tourist experience.
“The 2024 T100 finale in Dubai was a proud moment for our community. As a coach, I saw athletes light up with the chance to race among the world’s best. For 2025, we’re encouraging more athletes to treat this not just as a race, but a milestone in their triathlon journey.” David Hunt, Sported founder & TriSutto Coach
If you’re eyeing T100 Dubai 2025, now is the time to align your final block of training and prepare smartly. Explore the Sported Race Calendar and get in touch for coaching advice.
We’ll see you on the start line.
Posted on 9th Oct 2025
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