Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge Returns for Fourth Season at Tilal Sweihan
The prestigious desert rally competition commences on 17 October with 113 competitors representing 23 nationalities across motorcycle, quad bike, car and buggy categories.
The opening round of the fourth season of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge 2026 is set to unfold across the magnificent Sweihan Dunes on Saturday, 17 October, bringing together an impressive assembly of local and international racing talent. Orchestrated by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council in cooperation with the Emirates Motorsports Organisation, the event promises an exhilarating showcase of desert motorsport excellence.
This inaugural round welcomes 113 competitors and crews spanning four principal categories: 71 motorcycle racers, 13 quad bike enthusiasts, 9 car competitors, and 20 buggy racers. The entry list encompasses a distinguished cohort representing 23 nationalities, reflecting the competition’s growing international standing and the robust enthusiasm it generates amongst both seasoned professionals and emerging talents.
The Emirati racing contingent shines brightly across multiple categories. Distinguished participants include Mohammed Al Balooshi, Hamdan Al Ali, and Khalifa Al Rumaithi in the motorcycle category, whilst Mansour Al Helei and Khalid Al Kindi are registered for the car competition. Female competitors will bring their considerable talent and determination across the motorcycle, car, and buggy divisions, enriching the competitive landscape.
The motorcycle competition encompasses an admirably diverse range of classes: 450cc, Over 450cc, Marathon, Adventure, Veterans, Youth, and Women categories, ensuring an inclusive platform for competitors of varying experience and specialisation. The car competition features the T3 and T4 categories, complemented by quad bike races and buggy competitions in the Pro category.
The Sweihan Dunes present an exquisite natural arena for Baja racing, where the sandy terrain demands exceptional driving acumen, sophisticated navigation capabilities, and masterful vehicle control. Participants will encounter a compelling fusion of speed, endurance, and precision as they navigate the challenging desert landscape. All competing vehicles will undergo rigorous technical inspections before commencement, with final classifications determined in accordance with the event’s comprehensive technical and organisational regulations.
Through its fourth season, the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge continues to flourish as a premier motorsport platform, nurturing local talent whilst fostering international participation and further establishing desert rally racing as a cornerstone within Abu Dhabi’s distinguished sporting calendar.
Source: WAM