Dubai: Bikers rev up for 'Eid Brotherhood Ride' for a cause close to their hearts
The Biker Buddies Eid Brotherhood Ride returns for its third and biggest edition, with around 300 motorcyclists from 18 biking clubs and groups set to ride in a convoy from Dubai to Kalba Corniche on the second day of Eid. The 280-kilometre round trip, led by long-time resident and organiser Vicky M, brings together cross-cultural connection and charity on wheels.
'Eid brings people together, and that's what inspired me to turn this ride into a celebration of brotherhood and charity,' said Vicky, who has been living in Dubai since 1984. 'We come from different countries, but when we ride, we ride as one.'
Like previous editions, this year's ride will support the installation of water coolers in worker accommodations, a cause close to the bikers' hearts. 'It may seem like a small thing,' Vicky said, 'but clean, cool drinking water in the summer heat makes a huge difference. This is our way of giving back to society.'
The scenic route begins at ENOC Gas Station 1094 on Emirates Road (E611) winding through stretches of open desert and rocky outcrops before reaching Kalba Corniche in Sharjah. The group will make a brief stop at Masafi's Souq Al Juma halfway through for refreshments. It's where riders meet, share stories, and take a moment to appreciate the journey together.
Among the participants is Edwin 'Eddie' Massey, a marshal with Blu Oryx MC, who has been riding in the UAE for over two decades. 'Every ride brings new friendships and shared memories,' said Eddie. 'This one is special. It's a celebration of Eid and the togetherness that defines life in the UAE.'
Having logged more than 100,000 kilometres on UAE roads, he's also looking forward to the perfect weather. 'Cool mornings, bright skies, and the kind of crisp air bikers love, it's shaping up to be an unforgettable day.'
Mohammad Fazmin, a Sri Lankan fitness trainer and President of SL Dubai Riders MC, said the ride holds a deeper meaning this time of year. 'Eid is about reflection and compassion,' he said. 'And this ride allows us to come together with that purpose in mind.'
That sentiment is shared by Yusuf Ali Khan, a private banker from India and Captain of this year's ride. 'I moved to Dubai in 2014, and this event has become a personal tradition,' he said. 'It celebrates what the UAE stands for -- tolerance, unity, and giving. We're expecting a record number of bikers this time, and the energy is incredible.'
Vicky, who will ride his BMW GSA, says the age range this year stretches from 30 to well over 60. 'You could say I'm one of the veterans,' he grinned. 'But the excitement is the same for all of us.'
From Harleys and Hondas to BMWs and Royal Enfields, the mix of motorcycles mirrors the multicultural makeup of their riders. And while the engines may differ, the purpose remains shared.
'When 300 bikers ride in unison,' said Vicky, 'you feel the strength of the UAE biker community, and that's what this ride is really about.
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