Now in its third season, the Emirates Desert Championship is bigger than ever. The event is the UAE’s National Baja championship for motorcycles, quads, rally cars and buggies, with the opening round taking place in Dubai today. Reigning Auto champion Ahmad Al Maqoodi of the Polaris UAE Racing Team, Quad champion Humaid Al Mashghouni of the Sebsports Team, and reigning Motorcycle champion Jake Shipton of the KTM UAE Team all feature. However, they’ll face tough challenges from new participants as the competition grows. Meanwhile, a number of high profile international competitors are expected to race as guests over the course of the season. The 2015-16 season will feature five rounds throughout the deserts of the UAE, taking place on: 9th October 2015, 23rd October 2015, 13th November 2015, 12th February 2016, and, 4th of March 2016.