For its third edition, the 1000 Miglia Experience 2024 will follow the same routes as last year’s event. The race will begin in Dubai, with the first leg heading to Ras Al Khaimah and continuing to Jebel Jais, followed by the second leg from Ras Al Khaimah to Fujairah, and finally concluding in Abu Dhabi.
All routes promise to deliver a memorable journey across magnificent landscapes, from the enchanting mountainous range of Jebel Jais to the picturesque lakes of Hatta. Add the uniquely golden glow of the UAE as the sun sets, and this famous race sure lives up to its description.
What type of race is the 1000 Miglia, and why is it one of the most anticipated events in motor history?
What Is the 1000 Miglia Experience?
The 1000 Miglia Experience 2024 is Mille Miglia in the UAE version. The Mille Miglia is a legendary race that began in 1927. It was conceived as a speed test on open roads, from Brescia to Rome and back. The length of the race was 1,600 kilometers (or 1,000 miles, hence, the name of the race).
The first race took place on March 26, 1927, and was won by Ferdinando Minoja and Giuseppe Morandi in an Officine Meccaniche (OM) 665 Superba, which then became the most popular sports car in Italy.
The OM 665 Superba gave the automaker such prestige after a victorious stint in the first Mille Miglia that it named succeeding models MM.
Since that first event, Alfa Romeo, Jaguar, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, and Ferrari have all participated, contributing even more to Mille Miglia’s racing DNA.
The format of the race, however, has changed from a straightforward speed race in its early days to a regularity race in recent times. That’s when competitors complete different sections of the route in predetermined times, including an indicated speed. Imagine the skill and accuracy it takes to meet those parameters and win.
In 2022, the Mille Miglia came to the UAE, which makes perfect sense since the UAE has some of the world’s best roads and even more spectacular views. Plus, there’s an undeniable thriving car culture here.
What Are the Routes of the 2024 Race?
The lineup of 120 vehicles will start off in Dubai on day two of this five-day event, happening from December 1 to 5.
From Dubai, spectators can catch a glimpse of marvelous vintage cars and contemporary vehicles as drivers enter Ras Al Khaimah, where they will drive through panoramic roads, past towering dunes, palm trees, and the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf.
In the morning, competitors head out to the enchanting and enthralling Jebel Jais, one of the can’t-miss places to visit in Ras Al Khaimah.
Here, lunch is set to happen at 1484 by Puro, one of the best restaurants in Ras Al Khaimah. It’s situated on the highest peak in the UAE. providing quite the picturesque break for competitors.
From Jebel Jais, the race takes competitors out to Fujairah, where they will stay overnight. When the sun comes up, vehicles drive toward Hatta with a view of the awe-inspiring Hajar Mountains and the next day, on to the finish line in glittering Abu Dhabi.
The 1000 Miglia Experience, unlike the Mille Miglia designed for grueling 12- to 14-hour treks, has fewer turns and time challenges along the way, so the days are shorter for UAE competitors.
For four amazing days, competitors will be on the road, not having to fight traffic and discovering that the emirates aren’t just about the mesmerizing desert. Along the magnificent varying landscapes are the wildlife (from camel trains to runaway goats) and locals, offering visiting competitors a glimpse into Emirati life.
What Can You Expect as a Spectator?
Day one of the 1000 Miglia Experience 2024 is open to the public. Select competing cars will be on display in Dubai, providing spectators a closer look at some of the most exceptional cars, ranging from vintage to modern, that will be in the race.
You may be able to check out a few vintage Ferraris, some Aston Martins, likely some Porches and Mercedes-Benz models, and perhaps even a Bugatti.
Although the 1000 Miglia has been the event of the year for wealthy car collectors and rally enthusiasts, it welcomes anyone who cannot resist the allure of exciting cars.
Can Anyone Do the 1000 Miglia Experience?
In Mille Miglia, only cars manufactured between 1927 and 1957 can participate in the race.
But for the partner event in the UAE, the 1000 Miglia Experience 2024, eligible vehicles include cars manufactured up to 1976 for the Classic Icons class, and “distinctive or historic automobiles” manufactured from 1976 onward for the Contemporary Icons class.
Competitors also need an international driving permit with a validity of not less than a year, before arriving in the UAE to qualify.
Stay a While in Ras Al Khaimah
Competitor or spectator, Ras Al Khaimah’s outstanding scenery and adventure activities will entice you to stay a while, long after the racing flag has closed the Miglia Experience.
Discover more exceptional things to do in Ras Al Khaimah today!
