Faq

Challenge Sir Bani Yas is the latest edition to the Challenge Family series of long-distance, middle-distance and Olympic distance triathlon events. Challenge Family series consists of 35 events in 27 countries with 75,000 participants. Challenge races typically offer either;

• Olympic distance triathlon - 1.5km | 45km | 10km run

  • Individual and relay 

  • 18+ years

• Middle distance triathlon - 1.9km swim | 96km bike | 21km run

  • Individual and relay

  • 18+ years

• Long distance triathlon - 3.8km swim | 180km bike | 42km run

  • Individual and relay

  • 18+ years

Challenge Sir Bani Yas will offer the Olympic, middle- and long-distance categories along with some selected community races to cater for accompanying partners, children and friends, and island visitors.

Challenge Sir Bani Yas will take place on the 31st of January – 1st February 2026.

Challenge Sir Bani Yas will be held on the Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Located 170 km (110 miles) southwest of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.

The island is located offshore of the western region of Abu Dhabi spanning over 87 km2.

Challenge Sir Bani Yas is an event like no other, located on the beautiful natural island of Sir Bani Yas Island, you will race with the wildlife and enjoy the renowned Middle East hospitality.

Sir Bani Yas Island is one of the largest natural islands in the UAE, home to over 17,000 free-roaming animals, including Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes, hyenas, and cheetahs.

With a wide selection of friends and family fun activities and excursions, from sunset DJ sessions to mingling with the local wildlife whilst horseback riding in the surrounding nature reserve, Challenge Sir Bani Yas will leave you with memories for a lifetime.

Our latest confirmed events during the Challenge Sir Bani Yas will be released soon, and will be available under the Athlete Info tab on our website when it is released. Alternatively, you can refer to our social media channels as well on the latest schedules and other important updates.

All athletes must wear race-approved helmets for cycling, and race bibs visibly displayed during the run and bike legs. Safety is our utmost priority so ensure you are well prepared for your race segment. Wetsuits may be optional (water temperatures permitting.)

Yes. Time cut-offs are in place to ensure athlete safety and event logistics. Exact details will be released in due course.

The event is open to all. For further details please email info@challenge-sirbaniyas.com

Yes, aid stations are strategically placed along all the courses with water, isotonic drinks and energy snacks.

Registration details are available on the official website or by clicking the link here: https://endurancecui.active.com/event-reg/select-race?e=94585416

Your age category is calculated based on the age you will be on the 31st December in the year of the competition (31/12/2026).

The entry fee includes an event back-pack, event t-shirt and finisher’s medal and covers all race related items including nutrition.

For the race entry fees and more, click here.

The below policy applies to all athletes of the Challenge Sir Bani Yas, taking place on 31st January,2026.

REFUNDS – you are able to apply for a refund on your entry fee according to the below timeline:

• 100% refund until 31st October,2025

• 50% refund until 30th November 2025

• 25% refund until 31st December,2025

• No refund in the final months before the event date

CATEGORY CHANGES – You are able to change your race category up to 30 days prior to the event day. For category upgrades you will need to pay the difference in entry fees. There are no refunds for category downgrades. 

NAME TRANSFER – This event does not allow the transfer of an entry into another Athlete´s name.

DEFERRALS – Challenge Family events do not offer deferrals to another year or another event, or as above, to another participant. 

Participant data is stored in the registration platform provided by Active, this data is not used by any third-parties or used for commercial activities. The data is controlled by ADNEC Group and Challenge Family GmbH, who will use the participant data for newsletters, race information and invitation to The Championship (when qualified) and analysis for marketing optimization.

Sir Bani Yas Island is 17.5 km (10.9 miles) from north to south and 9 km (5.6 miles) from east to west, making it one of the largest natural islands in the United Arab Emirates. Sir Bani Yas was originally home to Arabia’s largest wildlife reserve. Spanning over 87 km2 (34 sq miles), the reserve was established in 1977 by Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.  

Due to decades of conservation work and ecological investment, it is now home to thousands of large free-roaming animals and several million trees and plants.

Visitors can reach the island via ferry from Jebel Dhannah Port, with complimentary shuttle services provided by us. However, to be able to avail this service you will need to complete your registration here.

Challenge Sir Bani Yas has planned a full set of fun activities for all spectators. You can refer to the community events here to see the schedule of activities.

Dress comfortably for a cool breeze.

No, camping is not permitted on Sir Bani Yas Island during the event weekend. Visitors and participants can book accommodation on our website.

Yes, there are luxury resorts such as Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort and Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara and Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort. Click here to book your stay.

Between January and February, the weather remains cool and pleasant. The average temperatures are:

• Average Daytime temperature: 25°C to 27°C (77°F to 81°F), with nighttime lows around 16°C to 17°C (61°F to 63°F).

• Average water temperature: 18°C (64.4°F) to 22°C (71.6°F)

• The Islands temperature is typically 4-6 degrees cooler than the temperatures in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

The Challenge Sir Bani Yas team will be taking all appropriate measure to be prepare for any forecasted change in weather conditions.
The predicted weather conditions will be closely monitored in the period leading into the event and following the guidelines as outlined by World Triathlon, the necessary measures will be planned and applied.

All attendees must comply with UAE public health guidelines. Medical staff and emergency services are stationed throughout the event venue.

Dietary requirements can be accommodated, provided they are clearly indicated during the booking phase.

The following meals are included:

• 30 January: Lunch and Dinner

• 31 January: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

• 1 February: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

• 2 February: Breakfast

This includes all-inclusive dining with unlimited soft beverages, served by the glass during meal hours.

Passengers who have paid for a ticket will be provided with a cabin key card, which will serve as their identification method.

Guests will be identified with their cabin key card and any additional food or drinks will be billed to their onboard account.

The accepted currency on board the ship is Euros (EUR). All price lists and menus are in EUR.

Medical facilities include a doctor and two nurses onboard, fully compliant with maritime protocols.

Travel insurance is recommended for all passengers.

The pool, gym, and entertainment facilities are all included as part of the lodging package at no extra cost. Spa treatments, laundry, and other services are paid services, with details available on our website in due course.

Celestyal will provide a “Know Before You Go” document covering facilities such as the kid club, amphitheatres, lounges, and any age or access restrictions.

Island excursions are promoted on the event page via T365 (at a charge) please find information on the website of Challenge Sir Baniyas 2026

Wi-Fi will be provided at 250MB per person per day, accessible in all areas. Additional bandwidth or upgrades are available at the passenger’s own cost.

All athletes are advised to obtain insurance coverage for their bicycles and personal belongings. Neither Celestyal, nor the event organiser will assume liability for any loss or damage.

Cabin Prices are based on double occupancy for three nights. Any additional occupancy is charged a supplement cost if the cabin categories allow.

All passengers must hold a passport with a minimum validity of six (6) months. A valid single-entry UAE visa is required specifically for this cruise. Passengers without a valid UAE visa will not be permitted to board.

Passengers who do not hold a valid passport or visa will be denied boarding, and no refunds will be issued in accordance with the booking conditions specified.

Infants under 12 months of age will be regretfully denied boarding.

Women who are 24 weeks pregnant or more at any stage of the cruise will be regretfully denied boarding.

Abu Dhabi Mina Port (Friday 30 January): Between 08:30 – 09:30

Option 1 – Abu Dhabi Mina Port (Sunday 1st February): Estimated from 22:30, subject to clearance by the Authorities

Option 2 – Abu Dhabi Mina Port (Monday 2nd February): Between 07:30 – 09:00

Parking is available at both locations under respective authorities parking conditions.

A dedicated form must be completed at the time of booking and submitted individually. In addition, a medical questionnaire is required to be filled in by the passenger and returned to the Passenger Service team.

Passengers listed on the official booking manifest may be permitted to board at Sir Bani Yas Island, provided their booking is valid.

Spectators will not be able to board the vessel, only passengers with a valid booking will be allowed to come onboard.

Bicycles will be treated as luggage and delivered directly to the passenger’s cabin.

If your bicycle is open (unboxed) could be treated as luggage and delivered to the passenger’s cabin. If      passenger prefers to mobilise this individually, please approach Celestyal management to find an alternative arrangement.

As per safety regulations, bicycles are not permitted in aisles or common areas and must be stored inside cabins.

Further options are being explored on the ship where racks could be installed for athletes to rack and store their bicycles. If confirmed, the FAQs will be updated and athletes booked on the ship will be notified. 

You may send us your queries at   cruising@celestyal.com

Here are some of our recommended hotels in Al Dhannah: Accommodations.

There is plenty to see and do in Al Dhannah, you can visit the Heritage Village, Al Dhannah Farm and Al Dhannah Park in terms of activities. You may also check out the Al Dhannah Traditional Souq, Al Dhannah Mall and the Al Hosn Centre.

These are some numbers that should be on your speed dial:
Abu Dhabi Police: 999
Al Ruwais Civil Defence: +971 2 877 5222
SEHA Sir Baniyas Island: +971 2 807 2140

The nearest hospitals in Al Dhannah are:
Al Dhannah Hospital: +971 800 7267, https://aldhannahhospital.ae/contact-us/
Berlin Medical & Neurological Rehabilitation: +971 2 305 700, https://berlinrehabilitation.com/
Capital Health Centre: https://capitalhealth.ae/about-us/facilities/al-dhannah-branch/

The Challenge Sir Bani Yas team is prepared for all medical emergencies onsite, with proper measures in place and ambulatory services on stand by.

Spectators must complete registration to attend the event spectator registration

The Race Village serves as the central hub, offering entertainment, retail outlets and key facilities. On Island several excursions are also available and can be booked here.

A shuttle bus service will operate between Abu Dhabi City and Jebal Dhannah Ferry Port. The shuttle schedule will be announced soon.

 Alternatively, a private transport can be arranged. Book your Transport here.

Yes, a shuttle bus service will operate from Al Dhannah City Mall to Jebal Dhannah Ferry Port. The shuttle schedule will be announced soon.

Challenge Sir Bani Yas has planned a full set of fun activities for all spectators. You can refer to the Community Events here to see the schedule of activities.

Yes, boxed bicycles will be transported from Abu Dhabi city (pre designated area)and Al Dhannah City (Al Dhannah Mall) to the ferry point. While the service provider will take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your bike, the event organizer is not responsible for any damages incurred during transit.

Please note that only boxed bicycles are allowed on the shuttle bus. Unboxed bikes cannot be accommodated on the shuttle and therefore will not be transported.

Shuttle schedules will be announced soon “transport page”.

Yes, participants and their supporters can choose to self-drive to Al Dhannah City or Jebel Dhannah Ferry Port. Parking will be available at both locations, and you can leave your vehicle while you participate in the event. If you are bringing a bike, you will be allowed to board the passenger ferry with your bike to travel over to Sir Bani Yas Island.

Only registered participants and registered spectators will be allowed to use the transport services to the island

Parking is available at the following locations:

• Al Dhannah City

• Jebel Dhannah Ferry Port

Yes, a complimentary ferry service will run between Jebel Dhannah Ferry Port and Sir Bani Yas Island from Friday to Sunday, accommodating all athletes and supporters staying off-island. The ferry duration will be 45 minutes, depending on the type of ferry. Individuals with bikes will need to board the Passenger Ferry.

Yes, select ferries will have bicycle racks for safe transport. If you are bringing a bicycle, you can use these ferries to transport it to Sir Bani Yas Island.

Your ferry access to the island will be provided upon completion of your registration.

To view the full bus and ferry schedule, please visit our page: “Transport page”.

To access the complimentary shuttle and ferry services, please make sure your event registration is complete. Click here to registration [add hyperlink]

View the full transport schedule here [hyperlink “here” to the transport page]

Yes, guests can enjoy an array of tours. Book here.

Yes, we have an array of activities and packages for Abu Dhabi and Dubai city. Click here to know more.

Aid stations on the run course will be stocked with a variety of hydration depending on which station it is:

• Water

• Stealth Energy gels

• Sprite and or Coke

• Energy bars

• Oranges

• Bananas

• Stealth Electrolytes

• Ice

• Savoury foods

• Coffee

If athletes require any specific and personal nutrition and/or hydration, they are encouraged to carry this themselves and or have it ready during their transition change overs.

Aid stations are located approximately every 1.5km to keep you hydrated and fuelled throughout the run.

Aid stations will have portable toilets available. Check the course map for specific locations.

To explore sponsorship opportunities, please contact the event organisers at Sponsorship@challenge-sirbaniyas.com

For collaborations, please reach out to us at: Sponsorship@challenge-sirbaniyas.com

Please reach out to us at: Sponsorship@challenge-sirbaniyas.com

We welcome local vendors, food trucks, and artisan stalls. Reach out to us with your proposal at: info@challenge-sirbaniyas.com