The UAE, known for breaking barriers and embracing innovation, is set to make history once again with a unique and powerful event—its first-ever all-women supercar rally. Scheduled from May 1 to 4, 2025, this groundbreaking event will be hosted by Arabian Gazelles, the world’s first all-women supercar collective. Bringing together 20 exceptional women drivers from across the globe, the rally aims to redefine motorsport through a blend of luxury, adventure, and female empowerment.
This isn’t just about showcasing horsepower or flaunting sleek vehicles—it’s a cultural statement. It’s about women boldly taking the driver’s seat, both literally and metaphorically, as they explore the diverse landscapes of the UAE, from the urban bustle of Dubai to the serene deserts of Qasr Al Sarab. The rally represents more than speed—it is about passion, progress, and a community of like-minded women driving change together.
Arabian Gazelles: Leading a Bold Vision
Founded by Hanan Sobati, Arabian Gazelles has long been a symbol of defiance against traditional motorsport norms. As the first supercar club for women, it has carved out a space where women can enjoy high-performance driving while building a network of support, empowerment, and innovation.
The upcoming rally is not just a sporting event; it is a celebration of female identity and power. According to Sobati, “This rally is about more than just horsepower. It’s about women claiming space, shifting the narrative, and driving the change they want to see — mile by mile.” That mission has shaped every aspect of the event, from the luxury accommodations to the curated driving routes designed to offer both excitement and serenity.
Co-organiser Ghita Mejdi, founder of the kliff project, adds a soulful touch to the event’s narrative. “This is a rally with a soul. Every detail was curated to honour the spirit of the women driving it—trailblazers, storytellers, and icons. They’re not here to compete; they’re here to connect, uplift, and inspire,” she said.
The Four-Day Journey Across the Emirates
The rally’s itinerary is as dynamic as the women participating in it. The journey kicks off at Dubai Autodrome, where participants will experience an exclusive track session to test their supercars in a controlled, high-adrenaline environment. From there, the rally moves eastward along the picturesque coastlines of Fujairah, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil seaside experience. Participants will unwind at a luxury beach villa and spa, an ideal contrast to the day’s drive.
The route then elevates—literally—as the drivers ascend the dramatic Jebel Jais mountains. Known for its winding roads and panoramic views, Jebel Jais offers both a challenging and deeply rewarding drive. The night will be spent in a serene five-star hotel retreat nestled in the mountains.
On the third day, the rally takes a magical turn into the desert, arriving at Qasr Al Sarab—a luxurious oasis amid sand dunes. Here, drivers will dine under the stars and connect with nature and each other in one of the UAE’s most iconic landscapes. The journey concludes with a triumphant return to Dubai, marked by a grand celebration of their shared experience.
Empowerment Through Experience, Not Competition
Unlike traditional motorsport competitions, this rally does not focus on speed or rankings. Instead, it emphasizes experience, elegance, and emotional connection. The idea is to create a platform where women can support one another, form lasting bonds, and celebrate their achievements.
In many parts of the world, motorsports remain male-dominated, often sidelining female enthusiasts and drivers. By creating an inclusive, high-profile event, Arabian Gazelles is changing the game. It’s setting a precedent not only for the UAE but for the global motorsport community.
The women participating in the rally are diverse in background but united in spirit. From entrepreneurs and CEOs to artists and influencers, they are all united by a shared love for driving and the freedom it represents. The rally gives these women a space to share their stories, their passions, and their journeys.
Redefining the Role of Women in Motorsports
This rally is about challenging stereotypes. Motorsports have often been perceived as a masculine domain, but this event proves otherwise. The presence of 20 accomplished women in high-performance vehicles, navigating the varied terrains of the UAE, sends a powerful message about inclusivity, capability, and leadership.
It’s also about visibility. Seeing women at the wheel of luxury supercars, not as passengers or bystanders but as leaders of a pioneering movement, reshapes perceptions. It paves the way for future generations of girls to dream beyond societal expectations and know that they, too, can take control of the wheel.
Furthermore, this rally ties into broader conversations about women’s rights, equality, and representation in the Arab world. With each mile they drive, these women are not only exploring physical spaces but also expanding the cultural space available to them in traditionally conservative landscapes.
Looking Ahead: A Movement Beyond Borders
While this is the first event of its kind in the Middle East, it certainly won’t be the last. Arabian Gazelles has ambitions to expand this initiative across the region and beyond. “We want to bring more women to the region and take those already here on unforgettable journeys across the world,” says Mejdi.
The future of motorsports is evolving, and women are increasingly becoming a vital part of that transformation. With events like the UAE’s all-women rally, the seeds of change are being planted—not only for motorsport enthusiasts but for wider societal shifts in gender norms and empowerment.
By highlighting the stories, skills, and strength of its participants, this rally sets a new standard for what motorsport can look like—refined, inclusive, and inspired by the voices of women who are ready to steer the future.
