Abu dhabi: The third season of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge is set to commence on Saturday in the Tilal Swaihan area of Al Ain, organized by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) in collaboration with the Emirates Motorsports Organisation (EMSO).
According to Emirates News Agency, the opening round will feature more than 100 competitors from 31 nations, including over 25 Emirati drivers and riders. The event will see a diverse mix of professionals and amateurs.
The competition promises to deliver an atmosphere of excitement and adventure across the golden sands of Tilal Swaihan, a renowned desert destination for off-road enthusiasts in the UAE. The opening round will include 62 motorcycles, 8 quads (ATVs), 8 cars, and 22 buggies, all set to tackle a desert stage spanning over 100 kilometers, made up of five laps through the soft sands of Al Ain’s desert. The route is designed to test the skill, speed, and endurance of participants.
Competitors represent a wide array of countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Portugal, South Africa, Australia, the United States, India, Russia, China, Japan, Lebanon, Jordan, Canada, Uzbekistan, Switzerland, Poland, and Brazil, among others.
Talal Mustafa Al Hashemi, Executive Director of Events at the ADSC, highlighted the unifying nature of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge, which brings together professionals and amateurs in a competitive yet safe environment. The championship will consist of four rounds, with overall titles being decided based on cumulative points across all events, culminating in the crowning of champions at the end of the fourth round.
Al Hashemi also emphasized the Abu Dhabi Sports Council’s commitment to nurturing local driver talent and encouraging participation in major international championships. The ongoing partnership with the Emirates Motorsports Organisation remains a key aspect of this initiative.
The event schedule includes administrative and technical scrutineering on Friday from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Race day registration will occur from 6:00 am to 7:30 am, followed by a drivers’ briefing. The official start is set for 8:30 am, with the podium ceremony scheduled for 11:45 am at the designated finish line awards area.