Dubai cancer survivor leads 15 riders on 3,333km Barcelona to Paris charity cycle

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, July 2, 2026

A team of 15 cyclists from the UAE embarked on a 3,333-kilometer ride from Barcelona to Paris to raise funds for the Al Jalila Foundation, which supports cancer care and research in the UAE. This challenging journey, led by cancer survivors and supported by prominent figures, aims to inspire hope and provide financial aid for patients needing critical treatments.

A team of 15 cyclists based in the United Arab Emirates set off from Barcelona on July 1 to undertake a demanding 3,333-kilometer ride to Paris, traversing Spain and France over 25 days. Their mission is to raise funds for the Dubai-based Al Jalila Foundation, which supports cancer care, research, and treatment access across the UAE.

The "Cycle Against Cancer" initiative aims to cover 54,000 meters of elevation gain, a challenge designed to mirror the physical and emotional endurance required by those affected by cancer. The group’s journey reflects a blend of personal connections to the disease and commitment to its cause, with riders including business leaders, seasoned cyclists, and cancer survivors.

Among the riders are Jonathan Emery, CEO of Aldar Development; Wolfgang “Wolfi” Hohmann, a key figure in the UAE cycling community; and Sam Instone, CEO of AES International. The team also features individuals who have faced cancer directly. Founder Guido De Wilde, a stage 4 colon cancer survivor who underwent major surgery and chemotherapy in Dubai amid the COVID-19 pandemic, leads the peloton. Another participant, Andrew Hallam, a personal finance author, successfully battled bone cancer after surgery in 2009.

The riders carry with them stories of hope, remembrance, and support for loved ones affected by cancer. De Wilde said the ride is intended to inspire those confronted with a cancer diagnosis not to lose hope, emphasizing that there is a path forward despite the challenges.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates airline and Group, offered his support before the team’s departure. His endorsement provided a significant morale boost, highlighting the importance of the cause behind the endurance challenge.

The funds raised during this event will be directed entirely to the Al Jalila Foundation, which aids patients lacking financial resources for lifesaving treatments and invests in advancing cancer research and healthcare access throughout the UAE. Building on the success of a previous 1,200-kilometer ride from Belgium to Italy in 2022, the team’s current endeavor underscores their commitment to demonstrating resilience and purpose despite the obstacles posed by cancer.

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