Dania Akeel isn’t just a name; she’s a force to be reckoned with. This Saudi Arabian daredevil made history by becoming the first female driver in the Middle East to clinch the prestigious FIA Middle East Baja Cup.
The cup consists of off-road races in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Jordan. Akeel, 36, won the side-by-side vehicle category in the final leg of the series in Dubai, securing victory in the overall cup. She is the first Saudi woman to hold the trophy.
Akeel’s victory wasn’t just a personal triumph but a groundbreaking moment for women in motorsports across the Arab world. Her fearless spirit and unwavering determination have shattered stereotypes and inspired countless young women to chase their passions, no matter how unconventional.
Akeel began racing motorcycles in 2019, becoming the first woman to receive a motorcycle circuit racing license in the kingdom. According to her website, she moved into rally racing following a motorcycle accident. Saudi women gained the right to drive in Saudi Arabia only in 2018.
Akeel is one of several Arab female drivers to achieve success in motorsports in recent years. Reema Juffali, Saudi Arabia’s first female race car driver, finished second in the PRO-AM class of the 2022 International GT Open, a series of races held on race tracks. Amna Al Qubaisi became the first Emirati woman racer driver in 2018 and entered the all-women F1 Academy competition last year.
A Desert Storm
Akeel’s journey to the top wasn’t without its challenges. Navigating the rugged terrains of the Middle East, she faced scorching heat, blinding sandstorms, and grueling off-road conditions. But these obstacles only fueled her fire.
Her victory at the Dubai International Baja was the culmination of months of intense training and unwavering focus. As she crossed the finish line, she etched her name in the annals of motorsport history, proving that gender is no barrier to success.
A New Era for Arab Women in Motorsports
Akeel’s achievement has sparked a wave of excitement and admiration across the region. Young girls who once dreamed of becoming astronauts or doctors now set their sights on the racetrack. Her victory has ignited a passion for motorsports among Arab women, and it’s only a matter of time before we see more female drivers making their mark on the global stage.
Dania Akeel’s legacy extends far beyond the racetrack. She’s a role model, a pioneer, and a symbol of empowerment for women in the Arab world. As she continues pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, one thing is certain: her impact on the world of motorsports is only beginning.
bv23
