Karting Championships in the UAE: From Club Races to National Glory

The UAE has become one of the most exciting places in the world for go-kart racing. With a race calendar packed from September through April, the country offers something for everyone — from young Bambino to serious competitors chasing tickets to international finals. Whether you're looking to build a race-day experience or take on the best in the region, the UAE karting scene delivers.

National Series: The Big Stage

Two headline championships define the top tier of karting in the UAE: the Rotax MAX Challenge UAE and the IAME Series UAE. Both are professionally run, well-attended, and competitive, where more international drivers are coming to participate as well.

Micro Max drivers at Al Ain Raceway

Rotax MAX Challenge UAE

Rotax MAX Challenge

Rotax is a prominent name in global karting scene, and the RMC UAE edition is no exception. This multi-round series is held at various circuits, including Al Ain Raceway, Dubai Kartdrome, Al Forsan International Kart Circuit and YAS Marina Circuit, featuring competitive grids in categories that range from Micro and Mini MAX to Junior, Senior, and DD2 Masters. It is a serious championship with significant stakes, as class winners earn a spot in the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals, allowing them to compete alongside the best karting talents in the world.

IAME Series UAE

The IAME Series UAE adopts the international X30 format, offering classes for Mini, Junior, Senior, and Master drivers. It is particularly popular among technically-minded racers and teams due to its high level of competition as well. Excelling in this series can earn you an invitation to the IAME World Finals, which is a notable event on the global karting calendar.

IAME Series UAE at YAS Marina Circuit

Club-Level Racing: Where it All Starts

Not every driver jumps straight into a national series — nor should they. The UAE is also home to thriving club-level championships that focus on development, consistency, and affordable competition.

Rotax Ranking UAE

A condensed four-round format, Rotax Ranking offers a more accessible way to race — but with big rewards. Held at the Al Ain Raceway, each class' overall champion receives a ticket to the Rotax International Trophy, which makes this event one of the most significant at the club level. It's an excellent opportunity for drivers to enhance their results and gain experience in a high-quality environment.

DAMC Cup & Dubai O Plate

The DAMC Cup, organized by Dubai Kartdrome, is a prominent event in the local karting scene. Taking place at the Dubai Kartdrome, it is known for its convenient, friendly atmosphere, and strong competition across various classes. This event provides a fantastic opportunity for new drivers to gain race experience while allowing seasoned racers to sharpen their skills between national rounds.

A key highlight of the calendar is the Dubai O Plate, a standalone event that attracts top talent from across the region and even the UK, resulting in one of the most competitive race weekends of the year. Winning the O Plate is not merely a matter of bragging rights; it represents a significant achievement in any driver’s karting journey.

Theo Kekati

Why It All Matters

Whether you find yourself on a club podium or contemplating a journey to Europe, karting in the UAE is designed to support your advancement. It provides an environment where you can learn valuable skills, while navigating the various challenges that arise in racing. Moreover, it fosters friendships, encourages the development of rivalries, and plays a crucial role in shaping future champions.

Getting Started

Want to join the grid? UAE race season starts September 2025. Head over to the Motorscape race calendar to see what's coming up and we can guide you on how to register. You'll find everything from Bambino sessions to Rotax and IAME Championship rounds.