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Mountain Bike Legends of Oman:

A Personal Journey Through the Dust and Glory

To attempt a complete history of mountain biking in Oman would be an impossible task—not for lack of stories, but because so many of them live in the memories of riders who’ve never been interviewed, in the faded photos of races long forgotten, and in the quiet camaraderie of trails that bear no plaques. The truth is, this series makes no claim to objectivity. It cannot.

I came to Oman’s mountain biking community as an outsider—wide-eyed, wobbly-legged, and wholly unprepared for the sheer passion that fuels this full-of-life society. What you’re reading isn’t an encyclopedia; it’s a love letter. A newbie’s attempt to trace the outlines of legends who built something extraordinary from dust, sweat, and spare parts.

Some names you’ll recognize. Others—equally deserving—may be absent, victims of my own limited reach or the silent humility of those who shaped this sport without seeking credit. If your hero isn’t here, know this: these articles are but a single track through a vast wadi of stories waiting to be told.

So let’s ride—not as historians, but as fellow travelers, piecing together Oman’s mountain biking soul, one unforgettable character at a time.

“The trail always reveals its secrets… but only to those willing to pedal far enough.”

“Is that a fox?… look, it’s running up that side of the rock!”

That was my first reaction at the sight of a wild sand colored animal, which ran away, unfamiliar to our noises and loud laughs.

“It’s a fox! We are in the middle of nowhere, literally,” Amiel replied. “Indeed! We are in the real wilderness.”

This moment perfectly captured the spirit of our latest trail-building project, “Eagle’s Nest.” Far from the city, surrounded by rugged nature, the camaraderie and shared passion for mountain biking brought us together. I had the privilege of participating in a couple of its construction sessions. I joined on the second session call, and worked alongside Captain Said Al-Mahrooqi and Hamad Al-Hajri, shaping challenging switchbacks and clearing rocky sections. The third session was even more vibrant, as Said and I were joined by riders from the Filipino Team—Orly the Senior, Amiel, and later Marco and Percival. Together, we carved new lines, reinforced berms, and shared ideas about the trail we are building, other trails stories along with DIY electrolytes and fruits that turned hard work into a celebration of community and wilderness.

Spotlight on Forgotten Gems: Beduminati & Loud Man

In a scene that often revolves around the newest lines and most hyped routes, some trails quietly fall off the radar. Beduminati and Loud Man[1] haven’t hosted a group ride or event in the last couple of years—but they’ve lost none of their edges. Hidden in Oman’s capital surrounding rugged hills, these two trails still offer raw challenge, sweeping views, and a reminder of what riding used to be: no noise, no crowd, just you, your bike and the mountain.

[1] Mahrouqi, Said Ahmad & Joseph Bunn. OmanTrailbuilders’ Trails Handbook, 2nd edition. Oman Cycling Association, Muscat. 2022.

Trail Names with Stories

Both Beduminati and Loud Man carry names born from real people and local lore. Beduminati, which loosely means “the big secret,” was named by trailbuilder and rider Joe Bunn, who coined it during the early days of mapping its brutal descent. The trail once hosted Oman’s national downhill championship and connected into “Beyoncé’s New Album”, extending the race run into a punishing 8-kilometer drop from ridge to valley. Loud Man, known for his booming voice and for always carrying a traditional weapon while patrolling the upper ridgelines with his sheep. His presence was loud, unmistakable—just like the trail that now bears his nickname.

Trail Names with Stories

Both Beduminati and Loud Man carry names inspired by the local population and their heritage. Beduminati, which was devised by OTB’s own, Joe Bunn -knowledgeable rider and trail builder, during the early days of mapping the brutal yet technical descent, might mean – and this is the author’s interpretation – a fusion of the two words “Bedou” and “illuminati”. The trail once hosted an enduro race and on another occasion a climbing race. The trail connects with “Beyoncé’s New Album”, extending the race run into a punishing 8-kilometer drop from ridge to valley. Loud Man, on the other hand, was named presumably after a mysterious herder, known for being a poetic philosopher despite the harsh environment. His presence was loud, unmistakable—just like the trail that now bears his nickname.

Beduminati: The Big Secret

After our encounter with the wild fox and the sense of true wilderness that defined our work on Eagle’s Nest, it’s clear that Oman’s mountain biking scene is about more than just the ride—it’s about immersion in rugged landscapes, technical challenges, and the thrill of discovery. This same spirit is captured in one of Muscat’s most demanding and rewarding trails: Beduminati.

Nestled in Sa’al village, Beduminati stretches for 1.4 kilometers and rises to an impressive 821 meters, making it the highest mountain bike trail constructed in Muscat. This trail is not for the faint of heart—its steep, technical descents are littered with large rocks and offer limited line choices, demanding advanced bike handling skills and a confident attack position. Riders must navigate tight switchbacks, rocky features, and sections that could only be described as gnarly—a term in mountain biking for rough, rugged, and challenging terrain. The trail’s elevation rewards those who reach its heights with panoramic views spanning Muscat, Al Ansab, Falaj Al Sham, Ghala, Al Rusayl, Al Khoud, and Fanja, offering a visual feast that matches the adrenaline rush of the descent.

Beduminati is a favorite among experienced mountain bikers seeking a true test of their abilities, as well as trail runners who use its steep gradient for both ascents and descents. The trail’s technicality means riders often rely on full-suspension bikes—known as “full squish” in mountain bike lingo—for better control and comfort over the rough terrain. Features such as rock gardens, drop-offs, and off-camber sections challenge even the most skilled, while the silence and fresh mountain air provide a rare escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

For those who crave adventure, Beduminati is more than just a trail; it’s a rite of passage. The combination of demanding features, breathtaking views, and the sense of isolation makes every ride a memorable journey into Oman’s untamed mountain landscape.

Loud Man: The Short Trail That Echoes in Your Bones

Just down the ridgeline from Beduminati lies a trail that doesn’t look long on paper—but delivers intensity in every meter. Welcome to Loud Man: 2.9 kilometers of exposed singletrack, clinging to the mountain above Sa’al village and overlooking the quiet sprawl of Sakhna.

Built by the dedicated crew at Oman Trail Builders (OTB), Loud Man is the result of over 200 hours of sweat, shovels, and stubborn determination. It’s also one of the most accessible trails near the capital, Muscat—close enough for a quick after-work session, wild enough to feel like you’ve stepped into another world.

The trail starts near a telecom tower and climbs gradually, weaving through terrain dotted with desert shrubs, acacias, and strange, mineral-rich rock formations. What begins as a mellow ascent quickly turns serious. As you gain height, the path narrows and the exposure kicks in—one side a craggy slope, the other a sheer drop with panoramic views.

Then comes the descent.

Loud Man rides fast and tight, with off-camber corners and rocky ledge sections that demand total concentration. There’s no room for hesitation here. It’s technical but clean—built with flow in mind, shaped by local riders who know how to balance thrill with rideability.

What sets Loud Man apart isn’t just the terrain—it’s the feeling. The sharp silence, the wind wrapping around switchbacks, the scatter of gravel under tire. It’s a trail that rewards mindfulness as much as skill, a line that tests your nerves without punishing your ambition.

And while the trail itself is solo and sharp, its creation was anything but OTB’s collective effort—weekend warriors, veteran riders, and first-time diggers alike—poured into every contour and berm. Their work transformed an inaccessible slope into a dynamic ride, all while preserving the natural rhythm of the land.

Loud Man may be short. But with its raw exposure, community roots, and views that stretch from village farms to distant skylines, it’s not the longest trail in the book—just the one that echoes in your bones.

Mansoor Al-Mahrooqi—The Voice That Launched a Thousand Rides

The Friday Dawn Riders

The streets of Barka slept under a peach-colored dawn as three figures detached through the morning mist on clattering bicycles. Mansoor Al-Mahrooqi gripped his handlebars, legs burning as he pedaled harder to keep up with Hamad Al-Wadhahi and Hamad Al-Sinawi.

“We called them ‘bicycles’ back then, not ‘mountain bikes,’” Mansoor recalls with a chuckle. “Heavy steel frames, squeaky chains—we didn’t know about suspension or gear ratios. We just knew the thrill of speed and the sting of scraped knees.”

What began as weekly escapes from routine soon became a ritual. The trio’s Facebook posts—grainy photos of sunrise rides through Khoudh’s palm groves—drew curious onlookers. By 2016, their band of riders grew to ten. They named themselves Team Al-Wa’al after the ibex—Oman’s nimble mountain climber.

“We were engineers, government employees, students… united by two wheels,” Mansoor reflects. “Those ten founders? We’re still the bones of this team. Every trail we blaze today carries their fingerprints.”

“Expats Rode Carbon Fiber. We Rode Determination.”

The early years tasted of dust and defiance. While expatriates zipped through wadis on imported carbon-fiber bikes, Team Al-Wa’al patched tires with duct tape and swapped YouTube tutorials like sacred texts.

Mansoor remembers the turning point: a disastrous group ride where three bikes broke down mid-trail. “We pushed them home under the noon sun, swearing we’d never be unprepared again.” The next week, they converted a Barka garage into a makeshift workshop, dismantling and reassembling drivetrains late into the night.

Then came the mentors—legends like Captain Saeed Al-Mahrooqi and Captain Labib Al-Lawati, who saw potential in the scrappy team. “Said taught us trail etiquette. Labib showed us how to read terrain. Joe Bunn? He made us believe we could compete internationally,” Mansoor says, scrolling through the photos of their first organized race.

The Brotherhood of Broken Chains

Rain lashed the Hajar Mountains as Mansoor crouched over a snapped chain during Team Al-Wa’al’s first cross-country expedition. Around him, riders debated abandoning the mission.

“That’s when Hamad said, ‘We either fix this together or walk back together.’” Seven pairs of grease-blackened hands worked in unison, fashioning a repair from spare links and sheer will. They finished the trail by moonlight.

This became their creed: “No rider left behind.” When a teammate couldn’t afford proper gear, the pool bought it collectively. When trails needed marking, they spent weekends piling stones into cairns. Mansoor’s voice thickens recalling their first junior member, a 14-year-old who now coaches Oman’s national team.

“We weren’t building cyclists—we were building guardians of the sport.”

A Message printed in Tire Tracks

At Team Al-Wa’al’s 10th anniversary ride, Mansoor watched a new generation tackle trails that once seemed impossible. Carbon bikes now gleamed where steel frames once rusted, but the mountains hadn’t softened.

He stopped the peloton at a lookout point. “See that ridge? In the beginning days of Al-Waal team, it took us four attempts to conquer and ride over it. Next month, Omani riders will race there in the National Championships.” The wind carried his words to the riders below. “Remember—every pedal stroke writes history.”

Why Mansoor Al-Mahrooqi is a Legend?

– The First Stone: Turned casual rides into Oman’s longest-running cycling institution

– The Unseen Architect: His garage workshops birthed champions

– The Keeper of Roots: Ensures no pioneer’s contribution is forgotten

“Legends aren’t made by the bikes they ride—but by the trails they leave for others.”

Mountain Bike Legend from Oman: Captain Labib Al-LawatiFrom selling bikes at home to leading a mountain biking revolution in the Sultanate

When we talk about the pioneers of mountain biking in Oman, the name Captain Labib Al-Lawati stands out as one of the most influential figures who helped shape the biking community and push it to new heights. What began as a simple passion evolved into entrepreneurship and sports leadership, making him one of the most prominent names in Omani mountain biking history.

The beginnings: From a Health Routine to a PassionLabib’s journey with mountain biking wasn’t intentional—it was a twist of destiny. After his doctor advised him to lose weight to avoid serious health risks, he turned to sports but didn’t see the desired results in gyms. And then that changed when he saw a friend of his riding his mountain bike serenely by Al-Qurum Beach—he decided to give cycling a try.The Turning Point: A Coincidence That Changed His Life
In a defining moment that became part of Omani mountain biking culture, Labib recalls:
“While struggling with my weight, I saw a friend riding his mountain bike at Qurum Beach with incredible confidence. When I asked about the price, I was shocked! On a desperate trip to Dubai searching for an affordable bike, I met an elderly German man, after Dhur prayers, riding a beautiful bike. I asked him, ‘Where did you get this?’ He smiled and said, ‘Do you want it? You can have mine for just 200 OMR.’““It was the deal of a lifetime! I returned to Oman with that bike—it changed my life. I lost 20 kg in three months, transforming from someone seeking a health fix, into a man building an entire biking community.”

The Challenge: From Fixing Bikes at Home to Founding ‘Muscat Bikes’Early on, Labib faced a severe lack of mountain bikes services, from spare parts to technical support. But he didn’t give up—he turned the challenge into an opportunity. He started repairing his friends’ bikes for free, learned through YouTube, and became an expert in the field.

A friend advised him to turn his passion into a business, so he launched a Facebook page, “Muscat Bike Shop,” and began selling bikes and spare parts from home. His unique approach—focusing on customers’ real needs rather than just selling products—set him apart. Soon, his small venture grew into one of Oman’s most famous bike shops, a go-to destination for both professional and amateur riders.

Leadership Role: Supporting Races & Building the CommunityLabib didn’t stop at selling bikes—he became a pillar in supporting mountain bike races in Oman. He helped organize the first race in collaboration with Joe Bonn and contributed to developing “Oman Trail Builders” events. He believed races were the best way to grow the sport, providing logistical and motivational support, which significantly expanded the biking community.Labib says:“Today, Oman has reached an advanced stage compared to other Gulf countries, thanks to our diverse trails and an active community of riders.”

His Vision for the Future of Mountain Biking in OmanLabib sees Oman’s immense potential in mountain biking, including:✔ Diverse terrain (mountains, valleys, technical trails)✔ Enthusiastic youth and active volunteer teams✔ Great opportunities in sports tourism and attracting international races

He emphasizes that integrating biking into school programs and youth activities will expand participation.

His Message to the Youth: “Start… Challenge Yourselves!”
Labib shares an inspiring message for ambitious Omani youth:
“Don’t hesitate to dive into this experience. Mountain biking isn’t just a sport—it’s a lifestyle that enhances fitness, focus, and resilience. Look for local groups, enjoy the journey, and be part of a community building a bright future for this sport in Oman.”

🚵‍♂️ Ready to start your journey? Join the community and be part of the story!

A special series on the pioneers of this thrilling sport!

In the soaring mountains of Oman, where rugged terrain defies the skills of riders, inspiring stories have emerged, of pioneers who shaped the history of this sport with their blood and sweat. “Mountain Bike Legends of Oman” is a new series of articles uncovering the profiles behind the rise of this sport—from entrepreneurs and innovators to race champions and community leaders.

Why this series?Because the history of mountain biking in Oman isn’t just about trails and bikes—it’s about:✔ Tales of perseverance – How ordinary individuals turned their passion into a community movement✔ Entrepreneurial legacy – Who founded the first specialized shop? Who built the first trails?✔ Wisdom of the pioneers – Lessons from the veterans for beginners and pros alike

Who is this for?

• New riders who want to understand the roots of this sport

• Pros who sometimes forget those who paved the trails before them

• Anyone who believes that behind every bike lies a human story worth telling

Who will be featured?
We begin with the legendary Captain Labib Al-Lawati, the entrepreneur who turned his passion into a biking empire. Then, we’ll explore:
🔹 The trailblazers who built historic routes🔹 Pioneering women in the sport🔹 Local race legends

“History doesn’t write itself—it’s written by those who have the courage to make it.”

It’s more than just a sport…

It is a passion and a brotherhood. I never knew that the wheel of my bike would lead me to a world where the challenge of the terrain blends with the warmth of people — until I met Team Al-Waal. The first meeting was at the “Imti” race in Wilayat of Izki, where I discovered that this sport is not just about speed and skills it is about the spirit of Oman’s mountains themselves: tough when in challenges, yet noble in character.

I met the people behind the event, and their simplicity and sincerity felt almost Otherworldly… Captain Saeed Al-Mahrouqi, to whom I will dedicate an article recounting the inspiring role he played, alongside the amazing Joe Bunn, Captain Labeeb Al-Lawati, and Captain Hamad Al-Hajri — the founding pioneers of the sport in Oman, Oman Trail Builders.

The other side of the sport: the Unbreakable Brotherhood

What was even more captivating than the unique and diverse trails, or the exceptional and passionate competitions, it was the beating heart of this community. Captain Majid Al-Ya’qoobi and Captain Nasser Al-Sarkhi from Team Dhahirah were not just riders — they were the older brothers who share their experience along with a cup of freshly brewed arabic coffee.

Team Dhahirah, Team Waal, Filipinos, nor Team Sur are not just names — they are small families competing within a community, in a rare spirit of sportsmanship.

“Waal!”

The renowned Team Waal, which I was honored to join, and of which I became a “Waal”…

I remember how Captain Hamad Al-Wadhahi — one of the founders of the team — always reminded us: “It’s fun, man! Enjoy and don’t worry!”, “The hardest trail is the most beautiful.” Mansoor Al-Mahrouqi picked up, whose exciting openings and speeches always energized us. Captain Abdulmajeed Al-Farsi turned every training session into a lesson in team-working. As for “The White Shark,” Fahad Al-Gharbi with his lively spirit and driving strength, he was like wind behind our backs on the toughest climbs and fastest descents, motivating us to break all the illusions that have been holding us back for ages…

The spirit of brotherhood doesn’t stop there, it lifts the barriers of boundaries and goes global, turning differences into a blessings. You’ll find us from all nationalities and backgrounds cheering each other in every language:“Go go go! Aash Captain Aash! Allez Allez! Vamos Vamos!”

Yes, we cheered in Portuguese as well, as Captain Emerson from Brazil, residing in the United Arab Emirates, joins us — keen to participate in all events and races in the Sultanate.

Because it is the school of life!!!

“Why mountain biking?” my friends and colleagues used to ask me…

This sport taught me that falling is part of the journey, but what matters most is how you stand up, who extends their hand to help you rise again and again. The rugged terrains of Oman’s mountains — from Falaj Al-Sham and Ghala in Muscat to Jabal Akhdar in Nizwa, from Ibri in Dhahirah Governorate to Salalah in Dhofar during the Khareef season, through Al-Aliya village in Rustaq, and Sur in Sharqiyah — are not just fields of challenge, but stations for creating memories.

Even in the fiercest races, we would hear a voice from behind saying, “Easy captin, I’m right with you, brother!” On the fascinating descents of Fanja, or in the historical village of Sunub and the Thuwara trail… The descent twisted like a snake, while the riders’ chants pushed me forward…

Imagine covering a trail while the sun rises over the rocks of the Hajar Mountains!

During training, sometimes on the Bee Trail, other times on the Khoudh trails, from Hidden Views Trail to Tomb Raider and Jurassic Park, climbing High Hills and descending into the Winding Wadi… Words cannot describe their breathtaking beauty.

Today, after 15 years of dreams, I realize that mountain biking has given me more than physical fitness; it gave me brothers who are hard to find anywhere else. And while Oman is famous for its towering mountains, the most beautiful thing about it are the heroes of this sport who turn every trail into a story to be told.

So, are you ready to start your journey? Pack your bike and join this world… where there are no limits except those set by you, and nothing is impossible when the MTB community is your new family.

Al Waal Team at Asia Enduro Series LK – Sri Lanka 2025

In an unforgettable and adrenaline-filled experience, Al Waal Mountain Bike Team proudly took part in the Asia Enduro Series LK, held in Sri Lanka in May 2025. The event, hosted in the lush rubber plantations of Pussellawa, brought together elite riders from across Asia — offering a fantastic opportunity to race and connect on an international level.

One of the standout moments of the trip was meeting the legendary British enduro rider Bex Baraona. Known for her fearless riding and top-tier results in the Enduro World Cup, Bex welcomed us with kindness and humility, and we were thrilled to capture some memorable photos with her.

You can follow her on Instagram here: @bexbaraona

Representing Oman in such a prestigious event was an honor for our team, and we’re more motivated than ever to keep progressing and competing at the highest levels.

Stay tuned for more adventures and race stories from Al Waal Team!

Al-Weal Mountain Biking Team Participates for the Second Consecutive Time in the Asia Endurance Race – Enduro Edition – Sri Lanka

The Al-Weal Mountain Biking Team participated for the second time in a row in the Asia Mountain Bike Endurance Race – Enduro edition, held in Sri Lanka in its second iteration.

The team’s journey began on April 29, when Al-Weal Mountain Biking Team departed from the Sultanate of Oman to Sri Lanka, with 20 members including two athletes from the national cycling team, in addition to rider Rashid bin Hilal Al-Dhamri from the “Adventure Box” team.

What is the Enduro Mountain Biking Race?The Enduro race is one of the most thrilling and exciting mountain biking events, characterized by unique challenges that combine high physical endurance with precise technical skills. Riders need significant stamina for repeated climbs, along with expert skills to descend rapidly through rugged and winding trails.

The race consists of several stages, held over one or more days, with each stage having a specific time limit. If a rider exceeds the allotted time, penalty time is added to their total.

Each stage typically starts at the top of a hill and ends at the bottom, and only the downhill time is recorded. Riders then climb back up in preparation for the next stage. The final rankings are based solely on the cumulative downhill times.

Trail Practice PhaseOn May 1 and 2, participants had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with and practice on the trails.

• Day 1: Three trails were tested.

• Day 2: Riders trained on three additional trails.

The goal of this phase was to study the terrain and identify the best racing lines to achieve optimal performance during the official race.

Official Race LaunchOn May 3, the official race kicked off with a fierce first stage, where participants competed vigorously to showcase their abilities through technical trails and tough natural conditions.

By noon, three race stages had been completed, with team riders delivering outstanding performances.

On May 4, the remaining three stages were completed, with the team continuing to deliver strong performances amid a highly competitive environment.

Honorable Results for Al-Weal TeamSeveral team members made it to the podium in various age categories:

• Under 18 Category:

  • 1st Place: Mohammed Hussein

  • 3rd Place: Khalil Hussein

  • 4th Place: Rashid Hilal

• Professional Category (20+):

  • 5th Place: Shabeeb Al Balushi

• 30+ Category:

  • 4th Place: Hilal Al Shahoumi

  • 5th Place: Abdul Majeed Al Farsi

• 40+ Category:

  • 4th Place: Fahad Al Gharbi

  • 5th Place: Nasser Al Jabri

Special Wishes for RecoveryWe wish a speedy recovery to rider “The Prince” Hamad Al Wadhahi, who suffered a foot injury that forced him to withdraw from the race. We hope to see him back in competition soon and stronger than ever.Acknowledgment and AppreciationThe Al-Weal Mountain Biking Team extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to the Adventure Box for its administrative and moral support during the team’s participation in the Sri Lanka race, which had a significant impact on the success of this journey.

We also express our gratitude to Garmin for their valuable financial support, which enabled the team to participate effectively in this international championship.

Special thanks also go to Muscat Bikes for their continuous support and trust in the team—a support we deeply value and cherish.

We are proud of this honorable representation by the Al-Weal team and look forward to participating in more upcoming regional and global events.

Dhi Al Yazan Al Said Visits “Muscat Bike Shop” and Expresses Interest in Cycling

As part of the opening events of Active Mall at the Oman Automobile Association, His Highness Sayyid Dhi Al Yazan bin Haitham Al Said paid a special visit to the Muscat Bike Shop, where he explored a range of the latest bicycles and gear. He showed notable interest in cycling in general, and mountain biking in particular.

This visit reflects His Highness’s keenness to support emerging sports in the Sultanate and to encourage youth to engage in outdoor physical activities, especially given Oman’s unique natural terrain and the growing network of cycling trails across the country.