JEDDAH: The first women-only navigational rally in the Middle East kicks off from Petra in Jordan, where 100 women from 37 countries take the driver’s seat for a journey of unique motorsport experience, empowerment, and adventure.
The Rally Jameel 2025, which runs from April 21-26, will see pilots and co-pilots competing across Jordan and Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscapes, beginning in Petra and ending in Qassim.
During a press conference held at Hayy Jameel, organizers of Jameel Motorsport announced that the fourth edition of Rally Jameel will bring together 45 teams from 37 countries. With 25 returning teams from previous editions and 20 first-time participants, the 2025 edition reflects the event’s growing global momentum and reputation as a platform for competition, cultural exchange, and empowerment.
Munir Khoja, managing director of Jameel Motorsport and marketing communications at Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, said: “Rally Jameel continues to evolve as a powerful platform that brings together women from across the globe to share in a unique motorsport experience. This year, we proudly celebrate the return of seasoned teams who have helped shape the rally’s legacy, while welcoming a new wave of competitors eager to make their mark. It’s this vibrant mix of experience and fresh energy that makes the rally so special. With its expanded route and increasing international recognition, Rally Jameel not only advances women’s participation in motorsport, but also embodies the spirit of Vision 2030 by showcasing the natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure tourism potential of our region.”
With interest in the 2025 Rally Jameel already running at record levels, Abdullah Bakhashab, head of the organizing committee, had detailed the outline route for the six-day event.
He said: “Racing from Petra to Qassim on deserts, mountain ranges, and coastal vistas, the route for the 2025 Rally Jameel covers 1,500 km, taking the 45 teams deep into the natural beauty and geographic diversity of Saudi Arabia and Jordan.”
Asked about the historic milestone as the rally goes global for the first time, he explained: “This year’s rally is witnessing a significant leap forward, as an agreement has been reached with the Kingdom of Jordan to launch the rally from Petra and they have welcomed the idea and given us all the support we needed.”
He added that advanced technologies are being utilized in the participating cars.
“Unlike traditional speed-based rallies, Rally Jameel focuses on navigation and strategy, offering competitors an experience that blends adventure with technical expertise.
Speaking about promoting and supporting local female racers, Bakhashab confirmed it is one of the main goals of Rally Jameel, saying: “Since it started, it is all about the empowerment of women and we are glad that through the previous editions we had so many names who are now taking their competitions into higher level around the world.”
He added: “Not just Saudi women come to race but also participants from as far away as the USA and Europe.”
According to organizers, the rally offers a unique lens for participants and attendees to experience the natural beauty and geographic diversity of Saudi Arabia and Jordan. This immersive journey not only attracts motorsport enthusiasts, but also highlights the region’s potential as a world-class destination for outdoor exploration.
With a diverse field of competitors, this edition underscores the rally’s role in uniting women from around the world through adventure, resilience, and shared passion for motorsport. It also serves as a stage for building connections across cultures, championing inclusivity, and celebrating personal breakthroughs on and off the course.
