The second stage ended at Abu Dhabi Breakwater in thrilling fashion after 176km of racing.
Riders left Al Hudayriyat Island just before midday and took in sights including Sheikh Zayed Grand mosque, Yas Marina Circuit and the Al Wathba Camel Racing Track.
Yesterday's stage-winner Belgium's Jasper Philipsen was looking to retain the red jersey but couldn't clinch victory from Cavendish on the finish line, coming in second, followed by Germany's Pascal Ackerman taking third place.
Philipsen retains the overall race leader's jersey heading into Stage 3 tomorrow where riders will compete in a 9km individual time trial in Ajman.
And itās @MarkCavendish first across the line at the Abu Dhabi Breakwater! What a spectacular finish! š
— UAE Tour presented by AD Ports Group (@uae_tour) February 21, 2022
@ihc_ae @AbuDhabiSC @Tadweer_cwm #UAETour #WorldTour #Cycling #Race #UAE pic.twitter.com/Oc8rBGS9a7
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