2025 YUKA DRIVE FEST Gymkhana: First Time in the UAE

On February 8–9, YUKA DRIVE FEST GYMKHANA 2025—the first-ever international Gymkhana motorsport competition—took place at Al Ain Sportplex in Al Ain, UAE.

Drivers from Russia, Belarus, the UAE, Lebanon, Egypt, and Oman gathered on the racetrack, creating a unique opportunity for experience exchange. The top pilots from Russia and Belarus, who had previously competed in YUKA DRIVE FEST Gymkhana 2024, traveled to the UAE to showcase the spectacle of this motorsport discipline, share their expertise, and inspire new participants to join the thrilling world of Gymkhana.

Among the competitors was the globally renowned drift pilot Arkadiy Tsaregradtsev, one of the most recognized racers in the world and an ambassador of YUKA DRIVE FEST Gymkhana in Russia. His participation elevated the event’s professional level and added prestige to the competition.

UNITY, SUPPORT, AND COMPETITIVE SPIRIT

Pilots from Russia and Belarus demonstrated incredible teamwork. Despite arriving without their own crews or mechanics, they actively helped each other prepare their cars and solve technical challenges. Meanwhile, all competitors received additional support from DX Drift, one of the key partners of the event. This high level of cooperation highlighted the true sportsmanship and camaraderie of the competition.

UNFORGETTABLE SHOWS AND THRILLING MOMENTS

Beyond the intense racing, spectators were treated to spectacular performances. A stunt rider from Sidewheel Experience performed a two-wheel drive stunt with dazzling sparks, a moment that quickly went viral on social media. This incredible performance can be seen in the official event broadcast.

The main event commentator was Mahadi Al Amin, widely known as “The Maestro.” His expert commentary and engaging presentation style made the competition even more thrilling and dynamic.

The festival concluded with a grand fire show by Stigma Show. From a 15-meter tower in the center of the racetrack, the team delivered a breathtaking music and pyrotechnics performance, providing a stunning finale to two action-packed days of competition.

PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK

Mahadi Al Amin

“Very proud to be part of YUKA Drive Fest as it’s happening for the first time in the UAE. I’m very impressed with the Gymkhana arrangements and the style of action. It’s great to see an international motorsports competition coming to the UAE.“

Fahad Abdul Latheef

“Participating in this new racing discipline was an incredible challenge and a steep learning curve. It was by far one of the toughest competitions I’ve faced, but I was determined to improve by observing and learning from the experienced Russian pilots, especially the legendary Arkadiy. Over the three-day event, I focused on adapting their techniques to tackle the obstacles and corners with precision. The whole atmosphere of the event was electric, and the competition was top-class. I’m excited for the opportunity to compete in future Yuka events and can’t wait to see what’s next in this thrilling, one-of-a-kind racing experience.”

SUPPORT & PARTNERS

The event was held with the support of UAE CAR CLUBS – UCC, DX DRIFT, EMSO, and FORTIS, and its organization met the highest international standards.