The Formula 4 UAE championship, launched last February, is one of the most important additions to the motorsport calendar this year, which was launched on Wednesday by the Automobile and Touring Club of UAE (ATCUAE).

The FIA-accredited F4 UAE Championship is the first of its kind in the Middle East and Africa. It is aimed at young drivers aged 15 and above.

Based in the UAE, the Championship will feature 18 races held over five events at Yas Marina Circuit and Dubai Autodrome, starting in October 2016 until March 2017.

Young drivers will also be able to take part in the 13-round National Karting Championship, run between Al Ain Raceway, Al Forsan, Yas Marina Circuit and again crossing the border to Muscat in Oman.

Mohammed ben Sulayem, President of ATCUAE and Emirates Motorsports Federation (EMSF), said: “This coming season, our main focus is attracting and developing young local talent in many different areas in the motorsport world.”

The new season features many karting activities and expansion in the national Baja Rally series, in addition to a long list of circuit racing activities.

The Hankook 24H Dubai, in January is now a traditional highlight at the Autodrome and reached a capacity entry of 100 cars for the first time in 2016.

The Emirates Desert Championship, the national Baja rally series launched in 2013 for cars, buggies, motorcycles and quads, has quickly become a major attraction, and the first out of five rounds will be staged on October 14.

The UAE National Rally Championship run by the Emirates Motorsport Club will start in October and aims to continue last years’ success, helping to drive the sport forward.