The 36th Dubai International Rally, which brings the 2014 FIA Middle East Rally Championship to a climax on 27-29 November, will be held under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee.

Traditionally forming the final round of the Middle East Championship, the rally has produced some dramatic episodes over the last four decades and now promises another fascinating grand finale to the regional series.

“The Dubai Rally is one of the UAE’s longest running sports events, and we are indebted to His Highness for his support as this ensures the event’s success story continues,” said Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE.

“The Dubai government has backed the rally from the very beginning and as a result it has an important place in the history of Middle East motor sport.”

After previous rounds in Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan and Lebanon, the UAE’s Sheikh Khalid Al Qassimi will be determined to record another success on home territory.

The 2004 Middle East title winner is within six points of defending champion Nasser Al Attiyah of Qatar and will be bidding for victory in Dubai.

Following the official starting ceremony in Dubai on 27 November, the rally roars to life the following morning when the cars go into action on the first of two legs of competitive stages run through the desert.