Arabia Divide

Arabia Divide – Jazan, Saudi Arabia

• Date: 26 March - 04 April 2027
• Location: Jazan to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Distances: ~1,450 km
• Event Type: Unsupported ultracycling race

The first unsupported ultracycling race in Saudi Arabia, Arabia Divide charts a course through the Kingdom's most dramatic and seldom-seen landscapes. The event is a non-stop, self-supported journey across the Aseer Mountains of southwestern Saudi Arabia, a region whose name translates to "extreme difficulty." Riders are invited to experience a side of the country that moves far beyond stereotypes of desert sands, into a vertical world of quiet roads and ancient culture.

The route covers approximately 1,450 kilometres with over 30,000 metres of elevation gain. It begins in the coastal city of Jazan on the Red Sea and travels north to the finish in Jeddah. Between these two points, the parcours is defined by demanding, mixed-terrain riding. The journey includes the winding, scenic roads of Fayfa and Al Hashr, extended periods of riding above 2,500 metres, and sections of hike-a-bike that demand both physical and mental resolve.

As the route winds through the mountains, it passes remote villages built directly into cliff faces, such as Al Habala, offering a glimpse into the region's history. This is not the flat, hot desert many imagine when thinking of an ultracycling race in Saudi Arabia. The landscape is one of stark contrasts, from the humid coastal plains to the high, temperate mountain air. The challenge lies as much in the sustained climbing and technical terrain as it does in the sheer scale of the journey.

The climate in late March and early April offers favourable conditions for riding. While the start and finish lines by the coast can see humid temperatures around 30°C, the majority of the route in the Aseer Mountains is significantly cooler. Riders can expect pleasant daytime temperatures around 22°C, with evenings that drop to a crisp 10°C, providing a welcome respite during overnight efforts. This temperate mountain climate is ideal for sustained endurance riding.

Riders can participate solo or as a pair, with a total of 240 hours to complete the course. The event is designed to become part of the country's growing cycling story, bringing international and domestic riders together. The organisation aims to foster a welcoming atmosphere, holding the race after Ramadan and reserving 25% of entries for women. The discipline of unsupported racing continues to grow, and you can discover other gravel events in Saudi Arabia on our platform.

While the race is unsupported in spirit, a significant logistics framework is in place, including staffed checkpoints, support vehicles, and a 24/7 race headquarters. The local culture is known for its deep traditions of hospitality, and riders will likely be met with warmth and generosity. This blend of wild, self-reliant riding and a welcoming human element defines the spirit of this unique ultracycling race in Saudi Arabia, creating a truly memorable experience.

The inaugural edition promises a journey that is as rewarding as it is challenging, set against a backdrop of profound natural beauty and cultural heritage. It offers a chance to find a rhythm on quiet roads and connect with an ancient landscape in a new way. More information, including how to request a place on the start line, can be found on the official event website.