The Morocco Desert Challenge is gearing up for its 2026 edition, promising more sand and adventure than ever before. Scheduled from April 9 to 18, 2026, this rally will showcase Morocco’s spectacular landscapes with a special emphasis on dunes.
Registrations for the 11th edition officially open on Friday, August 1, 2025. Once again, the organizers have chosen a linear rally format: no repeated loops, but a route of eight stages taking participants across Morocco. Scrutineering will be held on April 9 and 10, followed by daily stages from April 11 through April 18. In total, teams will cover approximately 2,800 kilometers.
The Dunes Edition
This year’s rally kicks off in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa” and a long-time favorite base for rally events. From there, competitors will head north toward the Mediterranean coast, with the finish line set in Saïdia.
What makes this edition unique is its theme: The Dunes Edition. Responding to the wishes of many participants, the route will feature more dunes than ever before. According to the preliminary plan, four to five of the eight stages will include dune crossings, among them some of Morocco’s largest and most iconic dune fields. Yet the rally remains diverse: around 85% of the course will consist of other terrains, from fast sandy plains and soft oueds to technical sections through canyons and mountains.
After eight days of competition, the rally will conclude in Saïdia, where vehicles will be secured at the port and the winners will be honored in style. The closing celebration will be held in a fully renovated five-star hotel, ensuring a festive finale to the adventure.
A Rally for Amateurs and Semi-Pros Alike
The Morocco Desert Challenge is renowned for combining professional organization with accessibility. It offers an exciting yet welcoming environment where both seasoned rally drivers and ambitious amateurs can test themselves on a challenging course. Alongside the competition, the event places a strong emphasis on team spirit and camaraderie, elements that have made it a staple on many teams’ annual calendars.
Roadshow in the Netherlands
For those eager to learn more about the 2026 plans, the Morocco Desert Challenge will host a roadshow this fall. The first presentation is scheduled for Thursday, September 18, at QFF in Eersel. Here, the route and new features will be unveiled, and attendees will have the chance to ask questions and soak up the rally’s atmosphere in advance.
With this Dunes Edition, the Morocco Desert Challenge is set to write yet another remarkable chapter in rally-raid history. For both competitors and spectators, April 2026 promises to deliver a month filled with excitement, spectacle, and unforgettable landscapes.
