Dubai International Baja 2024 Kicks Off Under the Patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed
Dubai, The Gulf Observer: The eighth edition of the Dubai International Baja, a premier motorsport event, commenced yesterday under the patronage of H.H. 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 Dubai. The event was officially flagged off by H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council.
Organised by the Emirates Motorsport Organisation (EMSO) in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council, the Dubai International Baja is the UAE’s oldest motorsport event and a world-class cross-country rally attracting top racers globally. This year, the event coincides with the 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations and runs from 28th November to 1st December, with its base at Dubai Festival City.
The rally unfolds across a demanding course, starting in the scenic and rugged landscapes of Hatta before entering the challenging dunes of the Al Qudra desert. The 2024 edition features a record-breaking participation of 65 cars and 32 bikes from 37 countries, and is broadcast across 190 territories worldwide.
Prominent attendees included Saeed Hareb, Secretary-General of the Dubai Sports Council; Mohammed Ahmed ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and record-holder of 15 victories in the event; and Omar Abdullah Al Futtaim, Vice Chairman and CEO of the Al Futtaim Group.
This year’s Baja also serves as the season finale for the 2024 FIA World Baja Cup and the 2024 FIM Bajas World Cup, adding a thrilling climax to the global off-road motorsport season. The event will crown the FIA World Cup champion and determine winners across individual classes.
Celebrating 45 years since its inception as the Dubai International Rally in 1979, the Dubai International Baja has evolved into one of the most prestigious events on the global motorsport calendar. Since its adoption of the shorter Baja format in 1997, the event has expanded to include buggies, bikes, and quads alongside cars, enhancing its appeal to competitors and fans alike.
Supported by official automotive partner Al-Futtaim Toyota, energy partner ENOC, and various Dubai Government entities including the Dubai Police, RTA, and Dubai Municipality, the event continues to solidify Dubai’s reputation as a hub for world-class sporting events.
The Dubai International Baja reflects the UAE’s commitment to promoting excellence in motorsport, offering a spectacular showcase of skill, endurance, and the spirit of competition against the breathtaking backdrop of Dubai’s deserts.
