BIDIYAH, OMAN – Oman’s first international Baja now has a festival built around it. The Oman Automobile Association (OAA) has confirmed the event as the headline act of the Bidiyah Sands Carnival 2026, a month of motorsport, tourism and entertainment in the Wilayat of Bidiyah, Al Sharqiyah North Governorate, from 19 November to 19 December.
Run under FIA standards, the Baja is seen as a stepping stone towards a future round of the FIA Baja World Cup in Oman. Classes cover 4×4 cars, motorcycles, quads and SSVs, with routes taking in dunes, open desert tracks and wadis.
More than a rally
The carnival programme adds live shows, camping, equestrian displays, family activities and space for local SMEs. A new Bidiyah Sands Challenge obstacle race will use the natural dunes, with a 5km adult course (professional, amateur and corporate categories) and a 500m kids’ race. An Event Village will host spectator zones, live broadcast screens and sponsor activations.
By the numbers
- 150+ competitors from more than 20 countries
- 150+ media representatives
- 200+ volunteers and 300+ organisers and operations staff
OAA Managing Director Suleiman Al-Rawahi said the aim is to go beyond motorsport and build a sustainable annual platform that blends sport, tourism, culture and community. Carnival Events Manager Wadhah Al-Harthi said the month-long programme is designed to give competitors, visitors and families a varied, well-run experience.
Photo: Oman Observer
Sources: Oman Observer, Times of Oman, Muscat Daily, Oman Automobile Association