Californian sets the pace as the crews hit the desert on Al-Futtaim Toyota Stage One
- McInnes charges into the motos lead
- Abdulaziz Ahli stays on top in the quads
- FIA President praises event organizers
- More Al Qudra desert action in prospect on the final day
- Al Marmoom viewing area proves a hit with fans
DDubai, UAE, 22nd November 2025: Toyota Hiluxdriver SethQuintero roared into a commanding if not yet decisive lead at the end of day two of Dubai International Baja in Al Qudra.
Following the spectacular start to the event with the prologue in Hatta and the Ceremonial Start in Dubai Festival City, the crews faced into the first of two days on in Al Qudra Desert where it is the frequency rather than the elevation of the dunes that creates the uniquely physical and technical challenge for which the event has become famous.
Just over 390km of desert rallying across the two days, evenly split 195km for each day of timed running, as well as long road sections to and from the Service Park at Dubai Festival City once again offer a true test of competitor and machine in the ninth edition of the event in its current baja format.
With running order and classifications established following the Friday Qualification Stage in Hatta, the first crews rolled out of Dubai festival city at 8am and headed under the distinctive arch of recently planted native Ghaf trees at 9.30am in front of the large crowd assembled at the Al Marmoom spectator area.
By the time the weary crews returned to Al Marmoom four hours later, their vehicles and clothing caked in Al Qudra sand describing the arduous nature of their morning endeavours, the stories of the day were emerging, and the hierarchy of the various classifications were clearly established.
Seth Quintero, a winner of ten stages of Dakar, reaffirmed his status as the standout favourite for overall honours in Dubai as he followed up his Prologue victory with a 3m47s stage win over FIA Baja World Cup champion-elect Juan Cruz Yacopini with former motorcycle star Toby Price making it a Toyota Hilux podium lockout.
Price is seven minutes behind Quintero with prologue runner-up Marcin Prokop (Ford Raptor) slipping to fourth and with 12m45s to make up on the final day.
“Overall, it was a really good day,” said Quintero at the stage end. “The car was amazing, and we got through without any serious issues. The only issue I had was I cracked a fender. That was about it. If that’s our bad day, I’ll take it.”
In the battle for the FIA Middle East Baja Cup, series leader Dania Akeel runs eighth overall and holds sway with a comfortable advantage heading into the final day of competition this year.
Britain’s Alex McInnes took over the lead among the motorcycle riders with an emphatic stage victory over Mohammed Al Balooshi and erstwhile leader Konrad Dabrowski who afterwards described the stage as “chaotic” having seen a rival crash in front of him.
There were no such issues for McInnes who shrugged put a problematic prologue behind him. The Dubai-based Scot made the most of a late starting slot to cruise to the top of overall standings, now holding a 2m55s advantage over Dabrowski who in turn is just six tenths of a second ahead of Al Balooshi.
“Yesterday, my bike shut off on the stage, it was dying” said McInnes, the winner of the first round of the FIM World Cup Bajas in Saudi. “I think the kill switch was stuck. So I was (starting) far in the back today.
“It was good. I had a lot of tracks to follow and I think I’m first today. Starting that far back has some advantages and some disadvantages, and it made a big difference today. And I think I made some time.
Local star Abdulaziz Ahli cruised through Stage One to further reinforce his dominance on the quads. He carries a 20-minute advantage into the final stage over Marcin Wilkolek of Poland.
The unique challenges of Dubai have again wowed competitors and spectators alike and the second consecutive visit to Hatta for the prologue along with a number of sustainability initiatives have helped make the connection between the community and the event an even stronger bond.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem was present at the Official Start Ceremony and was effusive in his praise for the organisation and development of an event with which he has a special connection. The Dubai International Baja is running for a ninth year in the format he introduced locally to succeed its predecessor, the Dubai Rally, which he himself won a record 15 times.
“I will praise the organizers here that they are doing a great job and also the environment is very good. The terrain is changed. You have the gravel, you have the stones, you have the Waddis. It’s a different style. The sand is different. Our terrain can change, and to have a challenge with the terrain is so good. Your suspension will be changed. You’re driving style will be changed. The way you think has to change.
“This is an event built on history stretching back to 1979,” said Ben Sulayem. “But it’s also one that continues to take Baja rallying forward, as shown by the introduction this year of a desert viewing zone, which gives spectators a grandstand seat and a new experience.
“The deserts of Dubai make a natural theatre for the sport, and a great test for drivers and their cars, and we have all the ingredients of a fantastic climax to both this year’s FIA World and Middle East Baja Cups.”
Speaking ahead of the Al Futtain Toyota Stage One Jacques Brent, Managing Director Toyota & Lexus at Al Futtaim Automotive said:-
“This is obviously a great opportunity for us to showcase some of the Al Futtaim properties and obviously Dubai Festival City features prominently in that, where we are located for the official start, and as well, the scrutineering, which occurs in our workshop facility.
“It’s a great opportunity to show the facilities that we have, and specifically, I know there’s a couple of Hiluxes in the field, and it’s always a proud moment when we see some Toyotas participating.”
Tomorrow’s final day of action is the 195km Stage 2 back in Al Qudra Desert with the crews rolling out of the Dubai Festival City Service Park at 7am. The timed running begins at 8.30am when the first crews arrive at the popular Al Marmoom spectator zone where they will pass through the iconic starting arch constructed from native ghaf trees as a visual symbol of the renewed drive for sustainability by EMSO in collaboration with the local municipality.
The spectator zone at Al Marmoom has proved to be very popular with event supporters who get two opportunities to see each of the crews in the desert environment.
After the crews return to Dubai Festival City at the end of their three tough days in Dubai and the conclusion of a long season of international competition, the Closing Ceremony is set to get under way at 8pm in front of the general public.
As well as well the prizes for Dubai International Baja, final awards will be made to the successful crews in the various FIA and FIM World Cup categories in the final official act of Rally Raid racing in 2025.
The Dubai International Baja is held under the patronage of His Highness 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 the Emirate of Dubai and is expertly organised by the Emirates Motorsport Organization (EMSO).
The Baja is supported by the strategic collaboration of the Dubai Government and its entities, including the Dubai Police, Dubai Sports Council, Road and Transport Authority, and Dubai Municipality as well as the event’s Official Automotive Partner Al-Futtaim Toyota. The Dubai International Baja also counts with the support of Hydration Partner Al Ain Water and Dubai Sports TV.
- Quintero, Dabrowski and Ahli Fastest in Spectacular Hatta Prologue
- Ceremonial Start at Dubai Festival City
- Crews Gearing Up for Al-Futtaim Toyota Stage One in Al Qudra Desert
Dubai, UAE, 21st November 2025:
The curtain has finally risen on the climax of the international off-road rally season.
After months of eager anticipation, the ninth edition of Dubai International Baja is under way with Seth Quintero, Konrad Dabrowski and Abdulaziz Ahli setting the pace in the scenic surroundings of Friday’s 5.64km prologue in Hatta.
After missing out by fractions of a second in the 2024 prologue in Hatta, US Dakar star Seth Quintero made no mistake this time round to take the early overall lead of the event in his Toyota Hilux.
Partnered by Andrew Short, Quintero charged to the line after in a time of 4m32.1s, just 2.2s faster than the Ford Raptor of Czechia’s Martin Prokop with FIA World Baja Cup champion elect Juan Cruz Yacopini of Argentina third in another Toyota.
Poland’s Konrad Dabrowski has begun his quest for back to back Dubai International Baja titles in emphatic fashion, the 24-year-old scorching through Hatta on his Duust KTM 450 Rally a full seven seconds faster than Frenchman Jean-Loup Lepan with another Frenchman, Mathieu Doveze in third, 12 seconds off the lead.
“I felt quite okay,” Dabrowski said afterwards. “It was a lot a lot more difficult than it looked on the video. It was really slippery. The rocks were kicking and it was not very pleasant but I did my best, I felt quite good on the bike and I hope the result will be nice.
It was a less conspicuous start for two-time event winner and local favourite Mohammed Al-Balooshi, the World Cup leader ceding 1m42s to Dabrowski after being forced to stop to on the stage but relaxed knowing that days two and three will play a bigger role in the destination of overall honours.
“It was too slippery,’ said the two-time event winner and FIM World Cup Bajas leader. “Today, for me, I was not comfortable, so I took it easy. And then I had a rock stuck in my front sprocket. So I just stopped and removed it just before turn 16.
“I’m happy. It’s better. Tomorrow, the rally starts. Today it’s for bragging rights. I don’t need to brag.”
Another local rider Abdulaziz Ahli continues his dominance of the Quad category and will carry the lead into the Al Qudra desert on Saturday.
In the final round of the FIA Middle East Baja Cup Saudi star Dania Akeel has a narrow points advantage over Qatari Khalifa S. Al-Attiya and Akeel holds the early advantage after Friday’s running, her ninth fastest time overall good enough to give her a 6.6s lead heading to Saturday’s desert action.
Following the opening test in the unique beauty of Hatta the crews returned to Dubai Festival City Mall for spectacular Ceremonial Start where the crews were presented to the large crowd and the visiting dignitaries including the FIA President, His Excellency Mohammed ben Sulayem, H.E. Minister Omar Sultan Al-Ulama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, H.E. Khalfan Juma Belhoul, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council and other dignitaries.
The record entry of FIA and FIM Baja World Cup crews now turn their attention to the 390km challenge awaiting them on Saturday and Sunday in Dubai’s formidable Al Qudra Desert.
Following the Friday’s establishment of a classification and starting order, the event continues on Saturday morning with the first competitor rolling out from the Dubai Festival Mall Service Park at 8am.
From there the will make their way to the start of the action proper at the distinctive arch made of Ghaf trees at the new spectator area at Al Marmoom in the Al Qudra Desert for 195km of driving and riding on the Al -Futtaim Toyota special stage.
Competitors will complete their special stage action from 1.30pm and are due back to the popular surroundings of the Dubai Festival Mall Service Park from 3pm.
The Dubai International Baja is held under the patronage of His Highness 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 the Emirate of Dubai and is expertly organised by the Emirates Motorsport Organization (EMSO).
The Baja is supported by the strategic collaboration of the Dubai Government and its entities, including the Dubai Police, Dubai Sports Council, Road and Transport Authority, and Dubai Municipality as well as the event’s Official Automotive Partner Al-Futtaim Toyota. The Dubai International Baja also counts with the support of Hydration Partner Al Ain Water and Dubai Sports TV.
- Excitements mounts ahead of ahead of tomorrow’s Dubai International Baja Prologue Stage in Hatta
- Local hero Mohammed Al Balooshi out to make history.
- Toyota duo Quintero and Price set to challenge World Cup regulars for event honours
- Defender makes global competition debut alongside leading FIA and FIM contenders
Dubai, UAE, 20th November 2025: Excitement continues to build as Dubai International Baja heads toward Friday’s Prologue Stage in Hatta, where the world’s top FIA and FIM international competitors will roar into action.
The world’s top off-road crews have arrived at Dubai Festival City Mall as final preparations are completed in the Service Park ahead of tomorrow’s start of the 2025 Dubai International Baja.
The established World Cup crews will face significant opposition from a number of one-off entries set to spice up the action.
Runaway FIA Bajas World Cup winner Juan Cruz Yacopini is gunning for a fifth win in seven events this season but the Argentinian will have to fend off the challenge of, among others, Seth Quintero of the US and Australian motorcycle legend Toby Price who are sure to feature.
Although not registered for world cup points all eyes will be on the Dakar stars in a pair of Toyota Hilux machines from Toyota Gazoo Racing as Dubai International baja reinforces its reputation for attracting a diverse entry list.
After a sustained period of testing and a new Toyota Hilux at his disposal Quintero is looking forward to giving a proper account of himself at an event where he has not yet enjoyed a trouble free run.
“This is this is one that I haven’t been able to do too well at yet, and, you know, with Toyota this year, we’ve built a new car and I’m excited to debut it here and hopefully put in a good result,” said the Californian.
“We’ve been doing a lot of work and a lot of testing and I think we’re all very happy with the results that we’ve put together as a team. So hopefully we can, you know, have a good one in the next two days and get on top of the board.
“I think the competition that this race brings is spectacular and to win it would be something else. Hopefully this year we can go out and do that.
“I think just the level of the sport and enjoying the race and the atmosphere, and the people that put on this race are always amazing to see, and, you know, a joy to be around. It’s just all those things put together that keep us coming back.”
The ninth edition of the event promises one of the most accessible and spectator-friendly weekends on the FIA and FIM World Cup calendars, with the Hatta Prologue to be followed by the newly designed spectator zone in Al Marmoom on Saturday and Sunday.
The special spectator zones for Friday’s action in Hatta have been designed to offer close, safe, and unobstructed views of the action, making it one of the most attractive off-road motorsport viewing opportunities in the region.
Hatta’s dramatic setting, with its rugged mountains, rocky outcrops and sweeping gravel tracks, will provide the backdrop for the spectacular event curtain-raiser as star FIA and FIM entrants from the list of nearly 100 crews from over 30 nations begin their campaigns from 14:00.
Local hero Mohammed Al Balooshi leads the motorcycle entry as he begins his title quest at his home event. The FIM World Cup frontrunner, twice a Dubai Baja winner and on course for a third FIM world title success, is determined to start strongly after placing runner-up in last year’s edition. Among the quads, UAE rider Abdulaziz Ahli will attempt to secure a third consecutive Dubai victory after dominating the previous two seasons.
For Al Balooshi the passing years only add to his hunger and competitiveness:–
“First of all, I’m very honoured to be on this panel with these amazing legends,” he said, speaking at the pre-event press conference in Dubai Police Officers Club “These are the legends of our sport, so I’m very honoured, first of all, to be sitting among them. And for me, I think passion is what drives us. Every year, I try to learn and I still feel strong. Still I feel getting better every year.”
Several experienced challengers return to Dubai this year, including Czech driver Martin Prokop and Saudi Arabia’s Dania Akeel, both of whom have shown strong form throughout the season.
As well as event honours in Dubai, Akeel is targeting overall success in the Middle Eastern Rally Championship this weekend.
One of the most anticipated storylines of this year’s edition is the global competition debut of the new Defender project. Two entries will appear in Dubai as part of an extensive development showcase ahead of the Defender’s full 2026 FIA World Rally-Raid Championship, and the cars are expected to draw significant attention in the Service Park, at the Hatta Prologue, and in the Al Marmoom viewing area.
Speaking at the press conference ahead of the event, Mr Mahir BADRI, CEO of the EMSO welcomed competitors and spectators to the event:-
“Today, the Dubai International Baja has grown into a world-class event because of the collective commitment of everyone here This year’s entry list reflects an incredible mix of international, regional and local talent and we are proud to host all of you.
“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the Dubai government and it entities, to our sponsors and partners. Your trust, your support, and your belief in this event are the driving force behind everything we achieve.
“I would also like to thank the media for showcasing Dubai International Baja to the world, thanks to ASO today we have a more than 100 TV channel agreement to broadcast the Dubai International Baja daily highlights.
“This year, we continue our mission to make motorsport more accessible, safer, and more sustainable. From innovations in our operations to improved competitor services, to stronger environmental commitments, it is a baja that welcomes everyone.
“To our competitors- drivers, riders, co- drivers, the teams and the new teams – you are the heart of this event. You push the limits of endurance and courage. You inspire us every year, and I want to thank you for choosing Dubai as your battleground.
“Finally, I would like to thank our team, volunteers, marshals, medical teams, rally management and safety crews-you deliver a rally that represents the UAE’s leadership and excellence in motorsport.
Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council said:-
H.E. Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police said:-
Jacques Brent, Managing Director Toyota & Lexus at Al Futtaim Automotive said:-
“I’d like to welcome to all the competitors. This is obviously a great opportunity for us to showcase some of the Al Futtaim properties and obviously Dubai Festival City features prominently in that, where we are located for the official start, and as well, the scrutineering, which occurs in our workshop facility.
“It’s a great opportunity to show the facilities that we have, and specifically, I know there’s a couple of Hiluxes in the field, and it’s always a proud moment when we see some Toyotas participating.
Dubai International Baja returns to Hatta for improved spectator‑friendly edition
New spectator areas in Al Qudra Desert at Al Marmoom
All spectator enclosures free‑to‑view
Dubai, UAE, 19 November 2025: Excitement is building for the 2025 Dubai International Baja (20-23 November), 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.
His Excellency 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 with 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.”
The Dubai International Baja is held under the patronage of His Highness 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 the Emirate of Dubai and is expertly organised by the Emirates Motorsport Organization (EMSO).
The Baja is supported by the strategic collaboration of the Dubai Government and its entities, including the Dubai Police, Dubai Sports Council, Road and Transport Authority, and Dubai Municipality as well as the event’s Official Automotive Partner Al-Futtaim Toyota. The Dubai International Baja also counts with the support of Hydration Partner Al Ain Water and Dubai Sports TV.
