Dubai International Baja returns to Hatta for improved fan friendly edition

Excitement is building for the 2025 Dubai International Baja as organisers unveil the most spectator-friendly edition to date with a dedicated viewing zone at Al Marmoom in the Al Qudra desert.

Created by the Emirates Motorsports Organization (EMSO), the site brings fans closer than ever to the technical dune stages of the Dubai International Baja. Easily accessible via paved roads and open to all, the newly designed zone allows visitors to watch cars, motorbikes, and quads start and finish the special stages.

The region also offers a camper-friendly environment for full-day viewing or an overnight desert experience. With facilities designed to accommodate families, enthusiasts, and first time visitors, the spectator zone creates a welcoming environment for all.

Last year’s debut Prologue in Hatta — set amid the dramatic landscape of the Hajar Mountains — was widely praised by international competitors and spectators for its rugged terrain, cultural charm, and change of pace from traditional desert stages.

Its return for 2025 reinforces Hatta’s growing reputation as an adventure destination, offering mountain trails and open-air escapes. Despite limited rainfall this season, the previous route’s dramatic wadi watersplash remains a vivid reminder of the area’s natural impact on the competition.

Together, the return to Hatta and the introduction of Al Marmoom reflect a renewed commitment to accessibility and audience engagement. The updates are part of the event’s long-term evolution, underpinned by strong support from the Government of Dubai and local authorities dedicated to showcasing the emirate’s varied natural landscapes.

Khalid Ben Sulayem, President and Board Member of EMSO, said: “We are excited to unveil the new spectator zone in Al Marmoom, which we believe will delight regular competitors and fans alike. This innovation enhances the appeal of the Dubai International Baja, showcasing Dubai’s desert landscape to on-site viewers for the first time in such an accessible way. Combined with the return to the extraordinary terrain of Hatta and our continued presence at Dubai Festival City, we are elevating the experience for all participants and spectators.

 “Our collaboration with Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality and the Roads & Transport Authority ensures seamless planning and execution across every stage. Their commitment guarantees the highest standards of safety, route management and environmental protection, enabling us to deliver a world-class baja that transitions smoothly between urban infrastructure and natural landscapes.”

From pre-event activities at Dubai Festival City Mall, to the Prologue in Hatta, and two further days of action in Al Marmoom, the Dubai International Baja continues to evolve while honouring its roots.

Now in its ninth edition under the Baja format - and marking 46 years since the inception of the Dubai Rally in 1979 - the event continues to evolve while honouring its heritage. As the final round of the 2025 FIA and FIM World Cups, the Dubai International Baja remains a flagship fixture on the global motorsport calendar.

Opening at Dubai Festival City on 20 November, the public will be able to see administration and scrutineering procedures from 16:00 as teams complete their final preparations.

The competition intensifies on 21 November with the Prologue in Hatta. National level drivers and riders take to the stage from 10:00, followed by FIA and FIM contenders from 14:00. The day concludes with the Rally Start Ceremony at Festival Bay in Dubai Festival City at 20:00, offering fans a celebratory atmosphere as the international teams are officially introduced.

The main desert stages unfold over the weekend in Al Marmoom. On 22 November, the first competitors leave the service park at 08:00, with the rally beginning in Al Qudra Desert at 09:30. Crews are expected to complete the stage and return to Dubai Festival City by approximately 15:00.

Action resumes on 23 November, with departure at 07:00 ahead of the day’s stage starting at 08:30. Following what promises to be a dramatic final stage, the teams return to the service park for around 14:00. The Dubai International Baja will conclude that evening with the Closing Ceremony and Prize Giving in Festival Bay at 20:00.

Fans can follow the Dubai International Baja social media accounts for further updates around locations and timings for the event. Spectators are reminded to follow all safety instructions from officials and authorities, remain within marked viewing zones, and respect guidance from marshals and Dubai Police to ensure a safe and enjoyable event for all.

The Dubai Police play an essential role in the smooth and safe running of the Dubai International Baja. From co-ordinating traffic management, to ensuring secure access for teams and spectators, the police help to maintain safety standards - supporting emergency response capabilities throughout the event.

His Excellency Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Assistant Commandant for Operations Affairs at Dubai Police and Chairman of the Events Security Committee in Dubai, stated: “The ninth edition of the Dubai International Baja reaffirms the UAE’s status as one of the world’s most successful nations in hosting major international events.

“This success is driven by the wise leadership’s vision, an integrated operational strategy, and sustained investment in infrastructure development and the preparation of sporting facilities. These factors, combined with all the elements that make organisation, participation, and attendance an exceptional experience, strengthen the UAE’s appeal as a leading destination for sport and athletes. The nation offers a wide range of options that meet every requirement, supported by world class infrastructure, operational flexibility, extensive services for organisers, its prime location, natural and touristic landmarks, and a variety of sporting venues built to the highest international standards.

“The Events Security Committee has worked closely with partners and the organising committee to designate two spectator areas for the final round of the Bajas World Cup and to set out all related safety and security procedures. The committee is fully prepared for this major global sporting event, which attracts large numbers of fans. A comprehensive security plan is in place to ensure the safety of the rally across all its stages and to deliver a championship that reflects the distinguished reputation of Dubai and the UAE as hosts of major international events, supported by their proven capability and expertise in organising and securing world class competitions.”