Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
The world of cross-country rallying is set for another top flight event in the Gulf region with the introduction of the new Dubai International Baja, which organisers say represents ‘a natural evolution’ of the Dubai International Rally.
Staged under the banner of The Automobile and Touring Club of UAE (ATCUAE) it will take place from March 9 to 11 in the Al Qudra desert. It will be the second round of this year’s FIA World Cup for Cross Country Rallies for cars and buggies and the opening round of the FIM Bajas World Cup for bikes and quads.
The new addition to the World Cup calendar is followed just over two weeks later by the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge on April 1-7 and the FIM Cross Country Rallies World Championship, and Qatar’s Sealine Cross Country Rally on April 16-21.
The Dubai International Rally had a rich 37-year history. That event’s traditional structure, restricted to rally cars, is being replaced by the more desert-friendly baja format which is also a more ‘cost effective option’ and open for buggies, bikes and quads, as well as cars.
ATCUAE president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “The fact that we now have three world class events taking place in this region in quick succession is a big boost for the sport here as we will be the focus of attention for the cross-country rallying world.
“There are also big benefits for competitors through savings in the cost of participation and transportation of vehicles, and the combined presence of leading manufacturers, sponsors and media will bring a new level of exposure for each of the events.”
