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.

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 November 20, the public will be able to see administration and scrutineering procedures from 16:00 as teams complete their final preparations.

The competition intensifies on November 21 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 November 22, 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.  -TradeArabia News Service