Women only earned the right to drive in Saudi Arabia in 2018, yet four short years later the inaugural Rally Jameel will be held in this Middle Eastern country from March 17 to 19. This female-only navigational rally takes place during Women’s History Month and has attracted 33 two-person teams from around the globe. Seven competitors are from the United States.
Rally Jameel takes inspiration from the female-only Rebelle Rally, which occurs in California and Nevada during the month of October each year. Vehicles will range from stock automakers we’re familiar with in the U.S. – including a Ram 1500 – as well as specially equipped off-road models. Similar to the Rebelle, Rally Jameel isn’t based on speed but precision, as participants traverse the pre-determined route and strive to get the best timing each day.
The 621-mile route will vary from 186 to 311 miles each day and will travel from Ha’il to Riyadh.
“I believe this race will encourage women to participate in something new and will help the increasing number of women on the country’s roads to feel even more comfortable behind the wheel,” said Saudi national Dania Akeel, who was the first Saudi to participate in Dakar Rally 2022. “It will help women to experience driving in a completely different way to driving on the road, inspiring a sense of adventure and discovery, which adds to a fulfilling life experience.”
Initiated by Abdul Latif Jameel Motors (Toyota), which has been actively involved since the beginning to deliver a truly unique and historic motorsport event, the rally is also organized by Bakhashab Motorsport.
The bottom line on Rally Jameel
We’re huge supporters of the Rebelle Rally and have covered everything from the cool trucks to the charging solutions for electrified vehicles participating. So, we love seeing another female-only event being launched, and we’re excited that it’s in Saudi Arabia.
What a better way to celebrate Women’s History Month than with women making history?
Related posts:
