The official countdown has begun for the Dakar Rally Saudi Arabia 2026, the most prestigious and challenging event in the world of motorsports, with less than 30 days until the start of this global competition. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is preparing to host the rally for the seventh consecutive year, from January 3rd to 17th, 2026, under the supervision of the Ministry of Sport and organized by the Saudi Arabian Motor Federation, in cooperation with Saudi Motorsports Company.
The Dakar Rally has gained significant historical importance. Since its move to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2020, marking what is known as the "third chapter" of the rally's history, the Kingdom's deserts and diverse terrain have become the stage for fierce competition among the world's top drivers. The upcoming 2026 edition promises to be even more exceptional, featuring a completely new route that traverses diverse geographical regions. This offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the Kingdom's natural diversity, from the Red Sea coast to the sand dunes and mountains, as well as passing by ancient archaeological and historical sites, adding a tourist and cultural dimension to the sporting event.
Commenting on the event, His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al Abdullah Al Faisal, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Arabian Federation for Automobiles and Motorcycles and the Saudi Motorsport Company, affirmed that the rally is more than just a race, saying: “The Dakar Rally is not just a race, but part of an ambitious journey in which the Kingdom is moving towards leading motorsport globally. This vision has been embodied in hosting major championships such as the World Rally Championship, Formula 1, Formula E, Extreme H, and other championships that have made the Kingdom the preferred destination for fans of global motorsport.”.
This edition follows an unprecedented historical achievement in the 2025 edition, where Saudi champion Yazeed Al-Rajhi etched his name in gold as the first Saudi driver to win the rally title, an accomplishment that reflects the development of motorsports in the Kingdom. His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Sultan added in this regard: "The 2025 Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia marked a turning point in the history of Saudi motorsports… and what makes us even prouder this year is the increased number of participating Saudi drivers, a clear indication of the success of talent identification programs and the empowerment of the next generation.".
In terms of numbers, Dakar Saudi Arabia 2026 boasts a massive participation of 812 competitors representing 69 countries worldwide. These champions will compete in 433 vehicles across eight main categories: Ultimate B, Ultimate, Stock, Challenger, Side-by-Side, Trucks, Motorcycles, and Quads. The total race distance is over 7,999 kilometers, including 4,845 kilometers of timed special stages, presenting competitors with a true test of skill and endurance.
In detail, the rally kicks off on Saturday, January 3rd with a ceremonial stage in Yanbu, followed by the first stage around Yanbu. The rally then heads east and north, passing through historic Al-Ula and Hail, before reaching the capital, Riyadh, where competitors will have a rest day on January 10th. The excitement resumes in the second half of the rally, heading south towards Wadi Al-Dawasir, then Bisha and Al-Hanakiya, before returning to Yanbu, which will host the finish line and the crowning of the champions on Saturday, January 17th, 2026.
This continued and successful organization of the Dakar Rally reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to achieving the goals of Vision 2030, which pays great attention to the sports sector as an economic and tourism driver, thereby enhancing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global center for major sporting events.
