Saudi Arabia's All-Female Car Rally: A Novel and Important Event
In a significant stride towards social progress and economic growth, Saudi Arabia hosted Rally Jameel, the first women-only navigation off-road rally in the Middle East, in 2022. Organised by Jameel Motorsports, a division of Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, Toyota's authorised distributor in the kingdom, the rally was a powerful testament to the evolving roles of women in sports and society [1][3][5].
The rally, which covers approximately 1,600 km over four days, is not a race of speed but a competition that tests navigational skills. Participants are expected to accurately traverse a set route, showcasing their off-road capabilities and navigational expertise [2]. This focus on skill development and safe participation aligns with Jameel Motorsport’s broader commitment to social and economic growth through motorsport, including fostering female involvement in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Rally Jameel is more than just a sporting event. It is a cultural initiative that reflects the evolving social dynamics in Saudi Arabia, linked to national goals of modernization and empowerment of women. The rally encourages participants to relax and enjoy themselves, with a focus on self-expression and teamwork rather than speed [1][3][5].
The lifting of the ban on women driving in Saudi Arabia in 2017 was a major turning point in the kingdom, following Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 strategy for transforming the kingdom. This ban was a significant obstacle to social advancement and imposed an economic burden [4]. The ban's lifting opened up new opportunities for women, including their participation in Rally Jameel.
Germany's Hanna Riehle, a three-time consecutive winner of Rally Jameel, enjoys the opportunity to explore unique scenery and locations through the rally. Abdul Latif Jameel Motors prioritizes comprehensive support and safety systems for participants in Rally Jameel, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all [6].
Hassan Jameel, Vice Chairman of Abdul Latif Jameel, Saudi Arabia, has emphasised the importance of women's empowerment and leadership following the lifting of the ban on women driving in Saudi Arabia. Abdul Latif Jameel Motors has been instrumental in supporting social progress for women in Saudi Arabia, including providing Toyota vehicles to driving schools [7].
Munir Khoja, Managing Director of Marketing Communication at Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, oversees the company's motorsport activities. He explained the emphasis on selfie-taking during competition, encouraging participants to document their journey and share their experiences [8].
Rally Jameel offers routes that provide an atmosphere of adventure, passing through deserts and World Heritage sites. It is the first women-only navigation off-road rally in the Middle East, making a powerful statement about the progress of Saudi women and their expanding roles in sports and society [1][3][5].
- The first women-only navigation off-road rally in the Middle East, Rally Jameel, showcases navigational skills and off-road capabilities, making it more than just a sporting event.
- Jameel Motorsports, a division of Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, prioritizes skill development and safe participation, aligning with their commitment to social and economic growth through motorsport.
- Rally Jameel covers approximately 1,600 km over four days, encouraging self-expression and teamwork rather than speed.
- The ban on women driving in Saudi Arabia was lifted in 2017, following Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 strategy, which aimed to modernize the kingdom and empower women.
- Rally Jameel is a cultural initiative that reflects the evolving social dynamics in Saudi Arabia and contributes to national goals of social advancement.
- Hanna Riehle, a three-time consecutive winner of Rally Jameel, appreciates the unique scenery and locations the rally offers while experiencing comprehensive support and safety systems provided by Abdul Latif Jameel Motors.
- Abdul Latif Jameel Motors has been instrumental in supporting social progress for women in Saudi Arabia, including providing Toyota vehicles to driving schools.
- Munir Khoja, Managing Director of Marketing Communication at Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, encourages participants to document their journey and share their experiences through selfie-taking during the competition.
