Abu Dhabi Set To Host Thrilling Off-Road Showdown As Top Talent Arrives

The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge (ADDC) stands as a premier event in cross-country rallying, drawing the best off-road racers from around the globe to the UAE capital for a week of intense competition.

Set to begin on February 25th, the 2024 edition of this storied event promises to be more spectacular than ever, as it welcomes over 150 competitors from a diverse range of categories.

This year’s Desert Challenge, part of the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) for the second consecutive season, will see an even larger field than in 2022.

The seven-day rally will test the skills of drivers and riders on some of the most challenging terrains in the Al Dhafra region.

The 2024 ADDC features a broad spectrum of talent, from young up-and-comers like 18-year-old UAE resident Alex McInness in the Moto R2 class and 18-year-old Spanish driver Pau Navarro in the T4 class, to experienced competitors like France’s Claude Fournier in the T3 class.

With 32 years of heritage behind it, the ADDC continues to be a key fixture in the W2RC calendar, showcasing one of the most scenic and demanding routes for FIA and FIM competitors.

Al-Futtaim Toyota, the Official Automotive Partner, plays a crucial role in the event’s success. Building on their previous collaboration with the Emirates Motorsports Organisation (EMSO), Al-Futtaim Toyota provides a fleet of reliable vehicles for officials, marshals, volunteers, and media.

Their support underlines a commitment to the event’s high standards and ensures that the rally operates smoothly in one of the world’s most challenging environments.

Defending W2RC champion Nasser Al-Attiyah, aiming for a back-to-back title alongside Toyota Gazoo Racing, will be a key figure at this year’s event.

Al-Attiyah, who won the ADDC in a Toyota Hilux Overdrive in 2016 and 2021, is poised to make a remarkable impact as he seeks to accumulate points towards another championship victory.

The ADDC continues to raise the profile of off-road racing in the UAE and strengthen its international standing. This year’s rally also features the “Road to Dakar” initiative, organized by the Amaury Sports Organisation (ASO).

This program offers rookies in the FIM Rally 2 and FIA SSV T4 classes a chance to win free entry to the 2024 Dakar Rally, highlighting the event’s role in fostering new talent.

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative Court in Al Dhafra Region, and presented by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the 2024 ADDC is supported by Energy partner ADNOC Distribution, Automotive partner Al-Futtaim Toyota, and various governmental and media partners including Abu Dhabi Aviation, Al Ain Water, the Ministry of Defence & UAE Armed Forces, Abu Dhabi Police, Civil Defence, Abu Dhabi Distribution Co, Al Dhafra Region Municipality, and Abu Dhabi Sports TV.