The Khaleej Times Desert Drive 2024 delivered on its promise of an exhilarating adventure, as hundreds of off-road enthusiasts gathered on December 14th to conquer the stunning dunes of Ras Al Khaimah. Now in its highly-anticipated 6th edition, this iconic event brought together thrill-seekers, families, and car enthusiasts for a day of camaraderie, exploration, and unforgettable memories.
DubiCars At The Khaleej Times Desert Drive 2024
DubiCars, the UAE’s leading car marketplace and official media partner for the event, added a special touch to the day with complimentary snacks and beverages for all participants. The DubiCars team engaged with drivers, offering exclusive giveaways and discounts for private car listings, showcasing their platform’s commitment to connecting car enthusiasts with their dream vehicles.
A Vibrant & Early Start
The day began bright and early at The Dunes Camping & Safari, where participants reported to the venue starting 6:00 AM. As the sun rose over the picturesque desert, drivers indulged in a hearty breakfast while completing registrations and collecting their event stickers. The air was alive with excitement as participants deflated their tires, fine-tuned their suspension, and prepared for a full day of off-road challenges.
A drivers’ briefing followed at 8:30 AM, emphasizing safety protocols and detailing the day’s route. At around 9:30 AM, the much-anticipated flag-off marked the beginning of an epic 105-kilometre desert drive that would put drivers and their machines to the test.
A Diverse Line-Up Of 4WD Vehicles
The event welcomed all types of 4WD vehicles, making the convoy a spectacular sight to behold. From compact three-door SUVs to massive pickups and everything in between, the variety of cars reflected the UAE’s diverse off-road culture. Participants brought vehicles ranging from stock SUVs to fully modified, purpose-built dune bashers.
The lineup of cars included the likes of the Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol, Ford F-150 Raptor, RAM TRX, Jeep Wrangler, Chevrolet Silverado, Toyota 4Runner, and more. Lead sponsor Riddara, the UAE’s newest electric pickup manufacturer, showcased its fleet of RD6 EV trucks. A few of them were also used as the Marshal cars.
Navigating Challenging Desert Terrain
Guided by experienced off-road marshals from Dubai Offroaders, participants tackled a pre-planned route plotted on the Tracky app. The drive took adventurers through four well-marked checkpoints, each nestled in Ras Al Khaimah’s rugged landscapes:
- Checkpoint 1: Wadi Yamah
- Checkpoint 2: Al Kharmaa
- Checkpoint 3: Al Nabggah
- Checkpoint 4: Near Al Saadi
The route was anything but ordinary, offering a mix of challenging and scenic desert terrain. Drivers encountered everything from soft sand and hard sand to fesh-fesh, rutted climbs, and sharp dune drops. The terrain also featured washboard surfaces and articulation obstacles, testing both driver skill and vehicle capability. Read our detailed Desert Driving Tips & Techniques article for advice on how to tackle such terrain.
A Fun-Filled Finale Under the Stars
As the convoy completed the challenging 105-kilometre route, drivers and passengers gathered at basecamp – The Dunes Camping & Safari – for a well-deserved evening of relaxation and entertainment. The post-drive festivities featured interactive quizzes, a sumptuous dinner, and desert safari fare like Tanoura dance and fire dance.
Growing Bigger Each Year
With over 300 cars and 600-700 participants this year, the Khaleej Times Desert Drive 2024 has once again proven why it’s one of the UAE’s most cherished off-road events. The camaraderie, breathtaking scenery, and flawless organization have left participants eagerly anticipating next year’s edition.
The success of the event highlights the region’s deep-rooted passion for off-roading and desert culture. Many attendees have already expressed their excitement for the 2025 Khaleej Times Desert Drive, scheduled for December 2025. Until next year, the desert beckons!
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Also Read:
- Top 10 Most Affordable 4WD SUVs For Sale In The UAE
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- First Drive Review — Riddara RD6
