Excitement builds as Dubai Baja to kick off from DFC

Motorsport fans in the UAE are in for a thrilling spectacle as the Dubai International Baja returns to Dubai Festival City from November 20-23.

As the climactic finale of the FIA World Baja Cup for cars and the FIM Bajas World Cup for bikes and quads, this year’s Dubai Baja brings world-class off-road action into the city.

The launch at Dubai Festival City offers an accessibility rarely seen in desert rallying, allowing fans to experience the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of off-road motorsport without venturing deep into the dunes.

Organised by the Emirates Motorsport Organization (EMSO), the ninth edition of the event, which traces its roots back over four decades to the original Dubai Rally in 1979, again brings the action into the heart of Dubai. It has become a fixture not only for competitors but for fans, media, and families who relish the dramatic spectacle of machine versus terrain.

For a fourth consecutive year, logistics and event venue support are provided by longstanding partner Al Futtaim Toyota, the exclusive distributor of Toyota in the UAE.

The brand’s vehicles – notably the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser – handle time-critical duties behind the scenes, supporting organisers and Senior Officials at the service park and the rally competitive stages through the challenging terrain of Hatta and the Al Qudra Desert.

In addition to its role as an official partner, Toyota again dominates the field, with eight of the 12 entries in the Ultimate class driving the Toyota Hilux.

The roster comprises a mix of Middle Eastern and international talent, including the Argentinian Juan Cruz Yacopini who arrives in Dubai as leader of the 2025 FIA Baja World Cup and American driver Seth Quintero who shines in the W2RC series.

All eight crews underscore the Toyota brand’s dominance and commitment to rally-raid competition — while highlighting strong regional representation through drivers such as of Khalid Al Qassimi and Khaled Alferaihi.

Jacques Brent, Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Toyota, said: “Motorsport is deeply embedded in the UAE’s DNA, just as innovation and performance are at the heart of Toyota. The Baja gives us a unique opportunity to push our vehicles to their limits in the most challenging conditions, while celebrating a partnership with EMSO that continues to inspire progress across the automotive industry. This year, we’re excited to take on the rugged terrain of the Hajar Mountains in Hatta and the unique challenges of the dunes in the Al Qudra Desert. It’s through challenges like these that we continue to refine our technology and apply what we learn to the vehicles our customers drive every day - ensuring that every Toyota is as capable, reliable, and durable as possible.”

EMSO President Khalid Ben Sulayem commented: “We extend our sincere appreciation to the Al-Futtaim Group for their outstanding support. Together, we’ve elevated the Dubai International Baja to new heights, and their vision in bringing the event to the spectacular Dubai Festival City is a shining example of how a world-class motorsport event can be brought from the desert to the very heart of the city.

As this year’s Baja marks the finale of the FIA World Baja Cup for cars and the FIM Bajas World Cup for bikes and quads, the championship standings promise an exciting showdown.

Argentina’s Yacopini, Emirati Mohammed Al-Balooshi, and Hani Al-Noumesi from Saudi Arabia lead the car, bike, and quad categories of the FIA and FIM World Cups, respectively.

Of special interest to home fans are entries from the UAE and Gulf region, including Emirati drivers Khalid Al Jafla and Mansour Belheli, Oman’s Hamed Al Wahaibi  (OMA), and Khaled Al Feraihi (KSA/UAE), each partnered with experienced navigators and representing the region’s growing motorsport pedigree. Dania Akeel (KSA), one of three women competing in this year’s Ultimate class, adds further inspiration to the field. On the international front, seasoned drivers such as Toby Price, Martin Prokop, Henk Lategan and Seth Quintero will ensure the event delivers world-class racing and headline performances.

The ceremonial start, open to the public and free of charge, takes place on Friday and marks a perfect moment for fans to witness the parade of machines before they head out into the desert for three full days of competition.

The service park returns each evening to Dubai Festival City, allowing fans to gain close-up access to the crews, vehicles and atmosphere.

As the 2025 international off-road season draws to a close, the Dubai International Baja promises to deliver a thrilling finale against an accessible city-backdrop. Whether you’re drawn by high-speed desert drama, regional stars, or the roar of engines, this year’s edition is not to be missed.

The Dubai International Baja is held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Dubai and is expertly organised by the Emirates Motorsport Organization (EMSO).