Post by : Maya Rahman

The organizing committee for the Dubai International Rally, known as the Dubai Baja, has officially launched its ninth edition. Set to begin at Dubai Festival City, this year’s event serves as the final round of the World Cup for Cross-Country Bajas, featuring cars, motorcycles, and quads. Organized by the Emirates Motorsports Organisation (EMSO), the rally is scheduled from November 20 to 23, hosting participants from over 30 nations with a total of 94 vehicles set to compete. This event stands as one of the premier off-road competitions in the region and a significant occasion for motorsport enthusiasts globally.

In its announcement, the committee highlighted that selecting Dubai Festival City as the venue for the start enriches the experience for both competitors and fans. This central location allows motor racing aficionados to immerse themselves in the atmosphere, observe team preparations, and engage with the rally without venturing far into the desert. Families, tourists, and media can enjoy the start of the event in a vibrant city setting, enhancing the rally's accessibility and popularity.

Khalid bin Sulayem, President of EMSO, expressed his gratitude for the Al-Futtaim Group's support, noting that their collaboration has strengthened the Dubai Baja each year. He remarked that hosting the opening ceremony in Dubai Festival City demonstrates the connection between a world-class desert rally and urban excitement. Additionally, he acknowledged Toyota for its significant role, citing that their Land Cruisers are robust, reliable, and perfectly suited for the challenging desert terrain, ensuring seamless operations during the competition.

This edition of the Dubai Baja represents the final round for both the FIA World Baja Cup for cars and the FIM Bajas World Cup for motorcycles and quads. The event is poised for a thrilling conclusion as championship leaders, including Argentina’s Yacopini (cars), Emirati Mohammed Al Balooshi (bikes), and Saudi Arabia’s Hani Al Noumesi (quads), will vie for crucial points that could shift the standings dramatically.

Competitors from the UAE and the broader Gulf region will also join in on this exhilarating finale. Notable entrants include Emirati drivers Khalid Al Jafla and Mansour Belheli, Oman’s Hamed Al Wahaibi, and Saudi Arabia’s Khaled Al Feraihi, all partnered with skilled navigators, showcasing the region's growing motorsport culture. Among the competitors, Dania Akeel from Saudi Arabia, one of three women in the Ultimate class, exemplifies the increasing involvement of women in motorsport. The competition will also feature international stars like Toby Price, Martin Prokop, Henk Lategan, and Seth Quintero, elevating the event's excitement and competitive nature.

The ceremonial kickoff of the Dubai Baja is scheduled for November 21 at 8:00 PM. This event is free and open to the public, allowing families, fans, and visitors to experience the competing vehicles up close, interact with drivers, and enjoy the festive atmosphere before the challenging desert legs commence.

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