H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum Supports Cycle Against Cancer

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dubai Health, met the 15 riders taking part in Cycle Against Cancer, a 3,333-kilometre charity cycling challenge from Barcelona to Paris that aims to raise funds for Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health.

The riders are in the final phase of preparation before departing on 1 July for the 25-day endurance challenge, which will cover 3,333 kilometres and more than 54,000 metres of elevation gain. The fundraising initiative supports Al Jalila Foundation's cancer care programmes, helping advance cancer research, improve patient access to treatment, and enable Dubai Health's vision of advancing health for humanity through the integration of Care, Learning, Discovery, and Giving.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum met the riders ahead of their departure in recognition of the humanitarian mission behind the charity cycling challenge and the team's commitment to raising awareness and funding for cancer care.

The 15-member team represents a powerful cross-section of the community, bringing together cancer survivors, business leaders and members of the UAE cycling community. Many are riding in memory or in honour of loved ones affected by cancer. The team includes 13 riders based in the UAE and two international participants, reflecting the growing global support for the Cycle Against Cancer initiative and its mission to transform lives through charitable giving.

Leading the expedition is founder Guido De Wilde, a 68-year-old stage 4 colon cancer survivor who has supported Al Jalila Foundation for more than a decade. Having previously raised funds for cancer patients, he returns to long-distance cycling to demonstrate that a cancer diagnosis does not have to mark the end of an active and purposeful life, while inspiring others facing similar journeys.

"This ride was always meant to send a signal to anyone who has been told they have cancer that there is a road ahead," said Guido De Wilde. "To have the support of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum as we prepare to set off is something the whole team feels deeply. Every one of us is carrying somebody's story to Paris, and that recognition tells us those stories matter."

Funds raised through the Cycle Against Cancer challenge will strengthen Al Jalila Foundation's cancer care programmes, supporting pioneering medical research, improving access to treatment, and providing hope to patients and families across the UAE.

Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said:

"At Al Jalila Foundation, we are proud to support initiatives that translate awareness into tangible impact and advance health for humanity. What makes Cycle Against Cancer especially meaningful is its ability to turn community solidarity into direct support for patients, research and access to care. We are grateful to the riders, sponsors and the wider community for supporting this important cause and helping bring hope to those who need it most."

As departure approaches, the riders carry with them not only months of physical preparation but also the stories of those they ride for. United by resilience, remembrance and hope, the team will cycle from Barcelona to Paris to raise vital funds for cancer care and research, ensuring that every kilometre ridden helps make a lasting difference for patients and families.

For more information about Cycle Against Cancer, or to support the fundraising campaign for Al Jalila Foundation, please visit the official Cycle Against Cancer website.