In a statement posted on their website, the world governing body announced how they have "received notice of the cancellation of both the Tour of Qatar and Ladies Tour of Qatar". 

"It is understood the decision follows difficulty attracting sponsor financial support," the statement adds.

The men's race, held annually since 2002, was only promoted to WorldTour status in August and had been due to take place from February 6 to 10.

The announcement comes weeks after Doha hosted the World Road Cycling Championships.

It appears a major blow for the growth of road cycling in the Middle East.

Previous editions of Tour of Qatar have been won by leading sprinters such as Belgium's Tom Boonen and Britain's Mark Cavendish, who triumphed in the 2016 edition.

The race has been criticised for a lack of crowds and minimal scenery. 

Racing has often been exciting, however, and the event is viewed as good preparation for spring classics.

There is now a gap in the World Tour calendar from the Dubai Tour, scheduled from January 31 to February 4, and the Tour of Oman, set for February 14 to 17.

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