Final Round of Dubai Baja Rally Kicks Off at Dubai Festival City

The Dubai Baja, marking its ninth edition, officially launches as the final stage of the World Cup for Cross-Country Bajas. Beginning at Dubai Festival City, this event from November 20-23 features 94 competing vehicles from over 30 nations. Organized by the Emirates Motorsports Organisation (EMSO), the Dubai Baja stands as a key off-road competition in the region and a major attraction for motorsport enthusiasts.

The organizing committee highlighted that selecting Dubai Festival City as the starting point enhances the event's appeal for participants and spectators alike. This central location provides easy access for racing fans, allowing them to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere, team preparations, and displays right from the city's heart, rather than the distant desert. Families, tourists, and the media are now able to enjoy the event's commencement in a lively urban setting.

Khalid bin Sulayem, President of EMSO, praised the Al-Futtaim Group for its unwavering support, stating that their collaboration has significantly strengthened the Dubai Baja each year. The shift of the opening ceremony to Dubai Festival City symbolizes the fusion of a high-caliber desert rally with urban connectivity. He also acknowledged Toyota for providing reliable Land Cruisers, crucial for navigating the challenging desert terrain, ensuring seamless competition operations.

This iteration of the Dubai Baja is pivotal as it concludes both the FIA World Baja Cup for cars and the FIM Bajas World Cup for motorcycles and quads. The event promises a thrilling season finale, with championship contenders including Argentina’s Yacopini in cars, Mohammed Al Balooshi from the UAE in bikes, and Saudi Arabia's Hani Al Noumesi in quads. The outcomes will not only finalize standing positions but could significantly alter them.

Competitors will include UAE and Gulf region drivers, such as Khalid Al Jafla, Mansour Belheli, Hamed Al Wahaibi from Oman, and Saudi Arabia's Khaled Al Feraihi, alongside seasoned navigators, showcasing the region's burgeoning motorsport passion. Notably, Dania Akeel from Saudi Arabia, one of three women in the Ultimate class, exemplifies the increasing women’s participation in motorsport. The roster also features international figures like Toby Price, Martin Prokop, Henk Lategan, and Seth Quintero, raising the competitive stakes.

The ceremonial launch of the Dubai Baja is scheduled for November 21 at 8:00 PM, offering free admission to the public. Families, fans, and visitors can interact with drivers, view competing vehicles up close, and revel in the celebratory atmosphere before the grueling desert legs commence.