RIDING IN THE DESERT: Road Cycling in Qatar

Abstract

This chapter discusses the emergence and growth of road cycling in Qatar. It argues that unprecedented socio-economic changes caused the sport’s decline in the Gulf state in the late 20th century. It further underlines the importance of the Tour of Qatar in reigniting local interest in the sport in both an amateur and professional context. The chapter highlights the primary legacies of this event as the creation of a cycling culture within Qatar built on proper grassroots structures. Local riders’ inclusion in the earliest iterations of the Tour of Qatar, coupled with the establishment of the Tour of Al-Zubarah, and the creation of the Qatar Cyclists Cycling Club are cited as demonstrations of such legacies. The chapter concludes by considering the future of cycling in Qatar and the challenges that lie ahead if the sport has to continue to grow. These include the need for increased participation by riders of both genders and overcoming cultural stigmas related to cycling.