We’re kicking off our on-the-ground 2026 Dakar Rally and Defender recap reels! So much to share, we (Mercedes Lilienthal) didn’t posted them all as social stories (although a few hundred videos/photos are saved in our 2026 Dakar Rally highlights bubbles via Crankshaft Culture‘s Instagram page).
It took me 5 airlines, 6 flights, multiple 5+ hour long layovers, a 3-hour delay in Dubai nearly costing me the domestic connection home, and about 52 total hours of travel (not including a quick overnight in Dubai) to get to AlUla, Saudi Arabia from Minneapolis, then home to Portland, Oregon.
Traveling to the Dakar Rally
This trip was worth every bit of effort; I’d do it again in a heartbeat if given the chance. Minneapolis/St. Paul MSP>Washington-Dulles DC IAD>Riyadh, Saudi Arabia RUH>AlUla, Saudi Arabia ULH and then AlUla, Saudi Arabia ULH>Dubai International Airport DXB>San Francisco SFO>Portland PDX to see the world’s greatest rally raid: Dakar Rally.
I saw amazing views of snow-capped peaks between Austria and Slovenia (by Triglav and the Julian Alps). I passed over Africa (Egypt) as the plane flanked Cairo along the Gulf of Suez. Many intricate building structures near Cairo. I even saw Mount Sinai off in the distance.
The plane then turned left over Hurghada and crossed into Saudi Arabia. The colors of the water were magnificent. Landing in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was interesting. There was so much sand in the air that visibility was greatly decreased. Once on the ground, however, I learned that Qahwa, or Saudi Sandton coffee, is a thing. When coupled with local dates, it’s a delicious treat.
Third Plane is the Charm
After a long layover, I hopped on my third plane and headed to AlUla, my home for the next three days during my time in Saudi Arabia for Defender and the 2026 Dakar Rally.
Shadows of large rock formations passed by me as the Wolf Moon shone upon us travelers. I arrived at Habitas, AlUla late, but once checked in, got a ride from a “buggy” (golf cart). I settled in but hardly slept in great anticipation of the Dakar Rally, the Defender teams, and seeing Saudi Arabia for the first time in person.
More soon as I find myself with an unexpected free day from schedules in Saudi Arabia. What happens next was fate with time spent of historical and cultural significance with fast new friends.
Photos and video by Mercedes Lilienthal
Mercedes Lilienthal is an award-winning journalist, photographer, and content creator who specializes in vehicular adventure travel, the automotive industry, and inspiring people within it. Mercedes, a dual citizen of the United States and Germany, loves to document her travels. Her work includes journalism and photography for a wide array of publications in multiple countries, including The New York Times, Forbes, Car and Driver, and many more.
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