Sponsor activation coverage
Photo and video of your branding, fan zone or activation at the venue.
Motorsport · Rally-raid
Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge 2027
21–26 March 2027 · Rub' Al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert. Everything you need to know about Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge 2027 — and how to turn your presence there into weeks of content.
In short
The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge 2027 runs from 21 to 26 March 2027 in the Empty Quarter desert of Al Dhafra Region. The 36th edition is round two of the FIA and FIM World Rally-Raid Championship and is organised by the Emirates Motorsports Organization. A2Z Digital offers rally photography, bivouac video and social content for teams, manufacturers and sponsors.
Details checked against official sources · Updated- Dates
- 21–26 March 2027
- Venue
- Rub' Al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert, Al Dhafra Region, Abu Dhabi
- Organiser
- Emirates Motorsports Organization (EMSO)
- Category
- Motorsport · Rally-raid
- Official website
- abudhabidesertchallenge.com
36thEdition (2027)
1991First held
Round 22027 W2RC calendar
6 daysRally window
About the event
What is Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge?
The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge is one of the world's oldest international cross-country rallies, founded in 1991 by Mohammed Ben Sulayem, now FIA President. It runs through the dunes of the Rub' Al Khali and is known among competitors as one of the most technical rounds of the season. Cars, trucks, side-by-sides, motorcycles and quads compete across multiple stages.
In 2027 it is the second of five World Rally-Raid Championship rounds, after the Dakar Rally. Manufacturers, teams and energy or tyre sponsors rely on dramatic desert imagery and bivouac stories to reach global audiences, so drone footage and daily stage highlights are valuable. Remote stages and long days in the sand also call for crews with desert and motorsport experience.
Who takes part
Who you'll meet there
Exhibiting, sponsoring or hosting?01 02 03 04 05 06
We can cover Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge for you
A2Z Digital's event photography & videography team covers stands, activations, speakers and side events at Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge in Abu Dhabi — with same-day content for your social channels and PR.
Hospitality & VIP events
Discreet coverage of guests and hosts in suites and private areas.
Fan & atmosphere content
Crowd, colour and energy that makes followers wish they were there.
Athlete & ambassador content
Coverage of meet-and-greets and ambassador appearances you arrange.
Same-day reels
Edited clips delivered the same day for peak reach.
Campaign content
Stills and footage your brand can reuse after the event.
Your content plan
Before, during & after
Before
Shot list, VIP and speaker schedule, crew passes and a teaser post announcing your presence at Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge.
During
Photos and short clips delivered the same day, posted in English and Arabic while the event is trending.
After
Full edited gallery within 48 hours, a highlight film and cut-downs for ads, newsletters and your website.
All year
Reuse the footage in social media and lead generation campaigns until next year's edition.
Practical tips
Get more from Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge
Advice from our event crews for making your presence count online.
- Check media rules. Filming of competition is controlled by rights holders — we focus on your activation and guests.
- Book early. Big sports weeks are peak season for crews in the UAE.
- Plan the golden hour. Schedule key moments around sunset for the best light.
- Post fast. Sports content peaks quickly — same-day delivery keeps you in the conversation.
FAQ
Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge questions
When is Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge 2027?
Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge 2027 takes place on 21–26 March 2027.
Where is Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge held?
Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge is held at Rub' Al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert, Al Dhafra Region, Abu Dhabi.
Who organises Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge?
Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge 2027 is organised by Emirates Motorsports Organization (EMSO). Check the official website for tickets, registration and exhibitor information.
Which championship is the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge part of?
It is a round of the FIA and FIM World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC); in 2027 it is round two of five.
Who founded the rally?
It was founded in 1991 by Emirati motorsport figure Mohammed Ben Sulayem, now FIA President.
Can A2Z Digital cover our brand at Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge?
Yes. A2Z Digital provides sponsor activation coverage, hospitality & vip events, fan & atmosphere content and same-day social content for brands, exhibitors and sponsors at Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge.
More Abu Dhabi events
Also see: Dubai events · Saudi Arabia events · Egypt events.
A2Z Digital is an independent agency and is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, the organisers of Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge 2027. Event names belong to their owners. Details are taken from official and published sources and may change — always confirm on the official website.
Taking part in Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge?
Tell us your dates and stand or venue. We reply within one working day with a coverage plan.