ADNEC Group, part of Modon Holding, welcomes participants to take part in the inaugural Challenge Sir Bani Yas, a landmark regional sporting event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region.
Organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC), the event is taking place until 6 April. It is the first of its kind in the region, welcoming male and female athletes from 47 countries to compete amid the island’s natural surroundings, combining sports competitions with unique family experiences.
His Excellency Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary-General of ADSC, said: “Our collaboration with ADNEC Group in organising the Sir Bani Yas Challenge reaffirms Abu Dhabi’s position as one of the world’s leading destinations for major sporting and adventure events.
“Abu Dhabi remains committed to promoting sport as a way of life. This event serves as an ideal platform to encourage the community to engage in physical activity, whether through the competitions or the family-friendly activities held alongside the races.”
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, said: “Organising the Sir Bani Yas Challenge aligns with our Group’s commitment to supporting and advancing our exceptional sports sector, while attracting major international events to Abu Dhabi.
“Thanks to Abu Dhabi’s world-class infrastructure and advanced facilities, the emirate continues to attract leading athletes from around the world, offering them a glimpse of its unique sports and tourism appeal. Challenge Sir Bani Yas is not just a race – it is an opportunity to explore the island’s rich environmental and cultural diversity.”
Challenge Sir Bani Yas offers a range of races designed to suit all levels, from professional athletes to amateurs and families. These include the long-distance race: a 3.8km swim, 180km cycle, and 42.2km run, which serves as a world-class challenge for triathlon champions. There is also the middle-distance race: 1.9km swim, 96km cycle, and 21.1km run, and the Olympic-distance race: 1.5km swim, 45km cycle, and 10km run, which provides UAE-based participants with the opportunity to qualify for the 2025 World Championships in Australia.
In addition, community races will include beach challenges, mangrove trail runs, and kayaking, ensuring participation across all age groups. Visitors can also enjoy a wide array of leisure activities, such as desert safaris to discover more than 17,000 animals, water sports, guided exploration tours on foot, horseback, or mountain bike, and archaeological tours showcasing the island’s rich history.
The organisers of Challenge Sir Bani Yas will provide regular ferry services from Abu Dhabi’s mainland to Sir Bani Yas Island, along with a range of accommodation options including luxury hotels and eco-friendly campsites. Tickets are still available for competitors wishing to take on the challenge, as well as for visitors keen to enjoy the entertainment and accompanying events.
