A series of virtual events are being organised by the Dubai Sports Council ©DSC

The Dubai Sports Council (DSC) is helping to organise a series of virtual events to help people stay active during the holy month of Ramadan.

Running and cycling events are among those on the programme, alongside competitions in video games.

The Ramadan Mubarak Challenge, a virtual running event, is set to take place on May 15 and May 24.

It will involve 10 kilometres and 5km races for men and women, as well as a 2.5km event for 12 to 16-year-olds and a kids race.

After the completion of both events, the results will be combined and the top three competitors in each category will receive a medal.

A Virtual Tour Challenge cycling competition, where riders participate from home, is also being organised by the DSC.

Virtual events are filling the void left by the coronavirus pandemic ©Getty Images
Virtual events are filling the void left by the coronavirus pandemic ©Getty Images

The DSC has also created a tournament in the Dota 2 online battle arena video game.

The event, which began on April 23, sees 128 of the best teams from the region competing for the top three places.

The winner will receive AED5,500 (£1,200/$1,500/€1,380), with the runner-up pocketing AED3,000 (£657/$817/€753).

The player who finishes third will be awarded AED1,500 (£329/$408/€377).

"With traditional sports and outdoor activity coming to a standstill around the globe due to the COVID19 pandemic, the DSC has been encouraging sports event organisers in the Emirate to embrace virtual sports and esports, and to come up with innovative solutions to keep members of the community engaged in physical activity at home," the DSC said.