A UNESCO World Heritage Site meets one of the toughest motorsport events on the planet
UAE’s capital of tourism welcomes Desert Challenge for the first time
Bivouac at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium connects rally-raid to other key sporting events in the region
Special spectator zone gives fans up-close access to the Qualifying Stage at Jebel Hafit Desert Park
The historic city of Al Ain, one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the UAE and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is preparing to welcome the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge (ADDC) for the first time in the event’s 34-year history.
Al Ain, recognised as the 2025 Gulf Capital of Tourism, provides a unique backdrop for the start of this leading international cross-country rally event. A special spectator-focused Qualifying Stage will offer fans an opportunity to see the vehicles and drivers up close, with a dedicated fan zone at Jebel Hafit Desert Park. The main spectator opportunity takes place on Saturday, 22nd, from 11:00-14:30 and fans are advised to arrive early to secure access.
The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge has long been one of the UAE’s premier sporting events, growing over 34 years into a cornerstone of international rally-raid. What began as a bold vision on a napkin by 14-time Middle East Rally Champion and current FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has become a globally recognised test of skill, endurance, and determination.
Since its first edition in 1991, the event has attracted legendary competitors, from Jean-Louis Schlesser and Stéphane Peterhansel to modern greats like Nasser Al-Attiyah and Yazeed Al Rajhi, and now holds the second-round spot in the FIA/FIM World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC).
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “As one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious cross-country rallies, the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge is a jewel in the crown of Middle Eastern motorsport. As its founder, the challenge will always hold a special place in my heart. It is an unforgiving test of talent, it is technical, and it is demanding.
“I am proud of the competition the Desert Challenge has become, attracting global talent and showcasing the best of our sport. Last year was truly a test for the ages, with Nasser Al-Attiyah’s decisive fourth win setting the stage for an exciting 2025 competition which I look forward to seeing play out across the dunes.”
Bounded by Jebel Hafit mountain to the east and the vast dunes of the Rub’ Al Khali to the west, Al Ain’s unique combination of breath-taking landscapes and deep cultural heritage makes it an ideal location to host the start of this year’s Desert Challenge.
The link between motorsport and football at this iconic venue highlights the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge’s place as one of the region’s most significant sporting events. Just as football brings communities together, rally-raid connects people to the landscape, history, and endurance that define the UAE. The rally’s presence in Al Ain underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to bringing world-class events to the city and its people.
Unlike any other motorsport discipline, cross-country rallying provides a deep connection to the land. While circuits and city tracks showcase modern skylines, the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge highlights the rugged beauty and historical significance of its surroundings. Al Ain, with its lush oases, ancient falaj irrigation systems, and archaeological sites dating back to 3000 BCE, offers an unparalleled backdrop that adds layers of meaning to the event.
A Route That Honours Tradition While Embracing Change
The decision to start in Al Ain reflects the rally’s ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. The Qualifying Stage will provide an exhilarating opening to the five-stage rally, determining the starting order for a gruelling first leg to Mezeer’ah. From there, competitors will journey deep into the Rub’ Al Khali, tackling the towering dunes and extreme conditions that have defined the event for decades.
One of the most exciting developments this year is the marathon stage at Al Qua’a, open to both bikes and cars for the first time. With no external mechanical assistance allowed, competitors must rely on their skills, endurance, and resourcefulness to survive before heading back toward Abu Dhabi in the grand finale.
For the people of Al Ain, hosting the Desert Challenge is not just about motorsport – it is a celebration of history, culture, and national pride. The region’s deep ties to desert life and exploration make it the perfect setting for an event that demands resilience and respect for the land. The bivouac’s placement next to Hazza bin Zayed Stadium further integrates the event into the city’s sporting landscape, reinforcing Al Ain’s position as a hub for world-class athletic competition.
The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative Court in Al Dhafra Region. The event is organised by the Emirates Motorsports Organization in cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge counts with the support of Energy partner ADNOC Distribution; the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, Technology Partner E&, and Official Logistics Partner DHL. The event is also made possible thanks to the support of Automotive partner Al-Futtaim Toyota and Governmental support from the Ministry of Defence & UAE Armed Forces, Abu Dhabi Police, Civil Defence, Abu Dhabi Distribution Co, Al Dhafra Region Municipality, Tadweer, and our media partner Abu Dhabi Sports TV.
