Bursting with high-octane action, world-class competitors and the dramatic desert landscapes the region is famous for, Dubai’s Baja stands as one of the most thrilling motorsport spectacles in the Middle East. As a key round of both the FIA World Baja Cup and the FIM Bajas World Cup, it consistently attracts elite car, motorcycle and SSV racers from across the globe, delivering a weekend of pure off-road adrenaline.
A Legacy That Began in 1970
The Dubai Rally first roared into life in 1970, quickly establishing itself as one of the region’s oldest and most prestigious motorsport events. Throughout its long history, the rally has showcased Dubai’s unwavering passion for competition, innovation and international motorsport excellence.
A major evolution came in 2016, when the traditional rally format was transformed into a full off-road Baja event, one of the toughest forms of cross-country motorsport in the world. This shift aligned Dubai with the global rise of Baja racing, bringing together cars, motorbikes and side-by-side machines across demanding desert terrain. The transition strengthened Dubai’s position on the world stage and secured its place as a crucial round in both the FIA and FIM Baja calendars.
For 2025, the rally once again establishes its base at Dubai Festival City Mall, offering fans an accessible and electrifying hub for all the weekend’s action.
The Excitement Builds in Hatta & Al Qudra
Anticipation reached fever pitch as the event officially kicked off with Friday’s Prologue Stage in Hatta, where elite FIA and FIM competitors powered through a spectacular 5.64km test against the unique mountainous backdrop.
Early pace-setters included Seth Quintero, Konrad Dabrowski, and Abdulaziz Ahli, each showcasing top-level performance as the ninth edition of Dubai International Baja officially got underway.
After the Prologue, competitors returned to Dubai Festival City Mall for a stunning Ceremonial Start, greeted by a packed crowd and distinguished guests, including: H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem (President of the FIA), H.E. Omar Sultan Al-Olama (Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy & Remote Work Applications), H.E. Khalfan Juma Belhoul (Vice Chairman of Dubai Sports Council).
With a record entry list now preparing for the desert stages, attention shifts to the 390km challenge awaiting participants across Saturday and Sunday in the demanding dunes of Al Qudra.
2025 Event Program:
November 21st (Friday) – Prologue & Ceremonial Start
10:00 – Qualifying Stage, National Auto Competitors (Hatta, Leem Lake)
14:00 – Qualifying Stage, FIA & FIM Competitors (Hatta, Leem Lake)
20:00 – Rally Start Ceremonies (Dubai Festival City Mall, Festival Bay)
November 22nd (Saturday) – Stage 1
08:00 – Service Park (Dubai Festival City)
09:30 – Rally Start (Al Qudra Desert)
13:30 – Rally Finish (Al Qudra Desert)
15:00 – Service Park (Dubai Festival City)
November 23rd (Sunday) – Stage 2 & Ceremonial Finish
07:00 – Service Park (Dubai Festival City)
08:30 – Rally Start (Al Qudra Desert)
12:30 – Rally Finish (Al Qudra Desert)
14:00 – Service Park (Dubai Festival City)
20:00 – Rally Closing Ceremony & Prize Giving (Dubai Festival City Mall, Festival Bay)
Racing Categories:
FIA Auto Categories – Ultimate, Stock, Challenger and SSV (Cross-Country Vehicles)
Moto/Quad Categories – FIM Baja World Cup / FIM Asia Baja Cup (Category 1: Bike 450cc and Category 2: Quad with Women, Junior and Veteran Classes)
National Auto Categories – SSV and Auto (4 wheeled, OEM Side-by-Side type vehicles and Prototype and Production Cross-Country Vehicles)
With its blend of history, international prestige and pure off-road excitement, the 2025 Dubai International Baja promises yet another unforgettable chapter in the UAE’s motorsport story. Whether you’re cheering from Al Qudra’s dunes or soaking up the atmosphere at Dubai Festival City, this is your chance to witness the region’s most exhilarating off-road challenge up close.
