DUBAI — The launch of the Abu Dhabi Baja next month provides a fresh boost for desert Rallying in the Gulf, creating a flagship event for the new series already attracting drivers and riders from across the region.

Supported by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the event forms the fifth round of the 2019 UAE Baja Championship, which is organized by the Emirates Motorsport Club (EMC) and is currently half way through its debut season.

Taking place in the Liwa desert on Nov. 15-16 over a route cutting into the dramatic dunes of the Rub Al Khali, the Abu Dhabi Baja joins a championship which has emerged from a series of candidate events run last year by the EMC.

The championship has so far consistently attracted upwards of 50 car, buggy, bike and quad competitors, and the offer of prize money in all categories in Abu Dhabi is expected to help build a much bigger entry list from across the region.

“We’re very pleased and encouraged by the response to the championship so far in its season,” said Sheikh Abdullah Al Qassimi, founder and president of the EMC.

“We want the Abu Dhabi Baja to take it to another level, securing the future of rallying which is where motor sport originated in this region.”

Based at a desert bivouac at Moreeb Hill, the Abu Dhabi Baja will feature two special stages adding up to 250km in a route totaling 280km in length including liaisons.

The pre-event favorite for overall cars victory in Abu Dhabi will be top Emirati driver Sheikh Khalid Al Qassimi, who leads the T1 category after winning three of the first four rounds.

The championship format also includes T2, Group S and UTV auto classes as well as Motos 450, 250 and quad categories, all of which are expected to be keenly contested in the inaugural Abu Dhabi Baja. — SG