Dune-bashers gear up for a day of fun

Dubai: The rumble of over 450 four-wheel drives will reverberate across the vast expanse of desert as the Gulf News Friday Fun Drive flags off at 7am on Friday.

Eager dune-bashers are all buckled-up to take on the awe-inspiring Arabian desert in a day that promises adventure and outdoor fun. The 28th Gulf News Friday Fun drive supported by Al Futtaim Motors-Toyota gets underway from The Sevens on Al Ain Road.

Duleep George, Executive Director, Marketing and Sales, Gulf News, will flag off the first vehicle.

Jack Pearce, Deputy Route Director, a Fun frive veteran, will be the man behind the wheels to lead the team.

The Fun drive is one of the biggest annual events organised by Gulf News and has gained popularity among dune-bashing lovers from far and wide.

What first started as a day drive in 1986 with a modest 75 4x4s, now attracts registrations from hundreds of dune-bashing enthusiasts, who eagerly await the event on the annual calendar.

This year too, the Fun Drive was over-subscribed and completely sold out within the first few hours of the registrations opening.

Starting from The Sevens, drivers check in by 6am today to receive their route notes that give clear instructions with regard to directions en route and, of course, the Gulf News reassurance arrows, tiger tape and caution signs. The disclaimer notes are to be handed over at the check-in desk before participants proceed to breakfast.

At 7am, the vehicles line up to start the Fun drive and the first vehicle is expected to reach the Hatta Fort Hotel at about 1.30pm after a one-of-a-kind desert experience covering challenging dunes, wadis and scenic mountains.

A delicious spread of authentic Arabic barbecue awaits the worn-down drivers, who can take a break before heading back home at their leisure.

With years of experience in successfully organising the event, Gulf News has taken every step to ensure the safety and security of the participants.

Fifty skilled Gulf News marshals are on call to guide and supervise all vehicles. All of them are checked at several checkpoints all along the route.

An effective communication control is also in place to keep track of the trajectory of the convoy. The fundrive numbers and goody bags were provided by Emirates NBD. The event is also sponsored by AXA insurance, Dubai Duty Free, Bridgestone and Lacnor besides other companies.