KT Desert Drive 2026 kicks off in Dubai; hundreds of 4x4s hit the desert

Detailed summary

The 8th edition of the annual desert adventure brings together experienced desert drivers and newcomers for a guided drive supported by marshals and recovery teams ...

Rows of 4x4 vehicles, colourful flags waving in the morning breeze and drivers making last-minute preparations set the scene at Bab Al Shams Arena on Saturday as KT Desert Drive 2026 kicked off in Dubai.

The eighth edition of the annual desert adventure was flagged off at 9.30am by Ted Kemp, Chief Content Officer of Khaleej Times, and Sagheer Ahmed, Chief Financial Officer of Khaleej Times, marking the start of a day of off-road driving across Dubai's dunes.

As KT Desert Drive flags were waved, the first vehicles began moving past the starting point, followed by a long line of 4x4s. Some carried UAE flags, while others had colourful safety flags rising high above their roofs of their vehicles.

Participants began arriving as early as 7.30am, turning the arena into a gathering of off-road enthusiasts. Within a short time, rows of Toyota Land Cruisers, Nissan Patrols, Jeep Wranglers, Ford Raptors and other modified vehicles filled the parking area.

Some drivers had come in vehicles fitted with large off-road tyres, raised suspensions and recovery equipment, ready to take on the sandy terrain.

Before heading into the desert, participants made their way to registration counters, collected event materials and enjoyed breakfast, which began around 8.30am.

While some gathered around breakfast tables, others were busy preparing their vehicles.

Drivers crouched beside their wheels to release air from their tyres, a common practice that helps improve traction on soft sand. Others fixed tall flags to their vehicles, checked their equipment and got ready for the journey.

Marshals moved between vehicles, helping drivers with preparations and explaining what to do and what to avoid during the drive.

Opening of the article, excerpted from Khaleej Times. To read the rest, open the article on the publisher's site.