Saudi Arabia is set to make history in the 2026 Dakar Rally with the first-ever participation of Saudi women, just six years after they gained the right to drive. A key initiative promoting this change is the Saudi Next Gen program, which trains young athletes, including women, for the rally. Notably, Merryhan Albaz, the world’s first female motorsport mechanic, and her assistant Nancy Al-Majali from Jordan are among the participants. This marks the first all-female team in the program, offering them a unique opportunity to compete in the Dakar Rally.
The initiative highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to gender inclusivity in motorsports, with women like Albaz, and international figures such as Lucie Baud and Dania Akeel, breaking barriers in the sport. The Saudi Next Gen program is part of a larger strategy to empower women in motorsports and position Saudi Arabia as a global sports hub, promoting both women’s participation and a more diverse economy.
