Amna Al Qubaisi And Porsche Test Limits With The 911 Dakar In The Liwa Desert

Amna Al Qubaisi, a name quickly becoming synonymous with breaking barriers in motorsport, recently embarked on an extraordinary journey far removed from the familiar confines of the race track. The young Emirati, who made headlines last year by securing two victories in the F1 Academy championship, took to the dunes behind the wheel of the 911 Dakar, a vehicle that redefines the capabilities of sports cars in unconventional terrains.

Al Qubaisi's adventure began in the early hours in Abu Dhabi, setting course for the Liwa Festival located in the Liwa Desert, some 220 kilometres to the south. The route, a mix of paved roads and challenging desert landscapes, provided the perfect backdrop to demonstrate the 911 Dakar's innovative features, such as its special lift system offering 191 millimetres of ground clearance and enhanced stability mechanisms.

"Driving the 911 Dakar on the road is very smooth, fast, and stable," Al Qubaisi remarked, highlighting the vehicle's performance on various terrains. Her experience in Liwa marked her first encounter with both the Dakar and driving a Porsche in such an environment. "It was so much fun on the sand dunes. You can go all out and not worry about losing control. The car is so stable," she added, reflecting on the seamless transition from asphalt to sand.

The significance of Al Qubaisi's foray into desert driving extends beyond personal achievement. It serves as a nod to her family's connection with Porsche, recalling memories of watching her father compete in the Porsche Carrera Cup. Today, it is Amna who is in the spotlight, inspiring a new generation in the UAE and beyond with her accomplishments in a male-dominated sport.

A Celebration of Desert Culture

The Liwa Tal Moreeb Festival, set against the backdrop of the Moreeb Dune, is a cornerstone event that reflects the rich heritage of desert driving in the Middle East. The festival is a convergence of high-performance driving disciplines, including drag races, motor cross, and drifting. It is also a cultural celebration, offering attendees a taste of the region's cuisine and traditional Arabic coffee.

Al Qubaisi's presence at the festival, arriving in the 911 Dakar, was met with enthusiasm and admiration. Her journey to Liwa, which included a warm reception at an Emirati home, underscores her status as an inspirational figure in motorsport, particularly for women striving to make their mark in the sport.

As the sun set behind the dunes, casting a shadow over an array of rugged off-road vehicles, Al Qubaisi and the 911 Dakar stood out, emblematic of evolving traditions and the breaking of new ground in both motorsport and automotive technology. The presence of both Al Qubaisi and the Dakar in the desert signifies a shift in perceptions, illustrating that with innovation and determination, no terrain is beyond reach.