Returning to “The Most Beautiful Race in the World”
By Shereen Shabnam
There are few motoring events on the planet that evoke the same emotion and reverence as the Mille Miglia. This is an event that has long transcended racing to become a cultural symbol of elegance, endurance, and passion. Born in Italy in 1927 as a thousand-mile open-road race from Brescia to Rome and back, it was the arena where legends such as Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz, and Maserati forged their names in motorsport history.
Though the original race concluded in 1957, the spirit of Mille Miglia was revived two decades later as a regularity rally exclusively for pre-1957 cars, transforming it into a rolling tribute to the golden age of motoring. As a global motoring jury member, my first encounter with Mille Miglia was unforgettable – the craftsmanship of these machines, the camaraderie among drivers, and the sheer romance of the journey left a mark on me. This year, I am thrilled to experience it again, this time sharing the adventure with my daughter joining the event, adding a personal chapter to a timeless story.
The Mille Miglia in the UAE: A New Chapter for the Region
The arrival of Mille Miglia in the UAE few years ago marked a defining moment for the Middle East’s classic car community. Organized by 1000 Miglia Srl and Octanium Experiences LLC, the UAE edition quickly earned recognition as the largest classic car regularity rally in the GCC, drawing passionate owners and collectors from the UK, US, Italy, Germany, India, Switzerland, Lebanon, and across the region.
The UAE’s participation is far more than a geographic expansion — it is an affirmation of the country’s growing prominence as a global home for automotive culture, luxury tourism, and motorsport heritage.
A Journey Across the Emirates: Power, Soul, and Scenery
Much like its historic Italian counterpart, the Mille Miglia UAE route celebrates a nation of contrasts, weaving through coastal highways, historic districts, mountain passes, and futuristic skylines. During my previous participation, our journey embraced the breadth of the Emirates, from Abu Dhabi’s cultural icons to Dubai’s dazzling energy, Sharjah’s heritage zones, Fujairah’s rugged mountains, and the serene coastal stretches of Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain.
Driving amongst these rare classics felt like guiding a living museum across one of the world’s most striking landscapes. Every stop was a reminder of the UAE’s unique ability to merge tradition with innovation which is a parallel that mirrors Mille Miglia’s own evolution.
Beyond the Rally: A Celebration of Lifestyle and Legacy
What truly sets Mille Miglia apart is its blend of luxury, heritage, and exclusivity. The rally is complemented by elegant hospitality, private gala evenings, VIP gatherings, and curated experiences that elevate it beyond a motorsport event. It is a fusion of culture, artistry, and social connection, where enthusiasts celebrate not only the machines but the narratives behind them.
The UAE edition has accelerated the region’s appreciation for automotive heritage and further positioned the Emirates as a world-class destination for classic car tourism.
A Tradition That Continues to Grow
As Mille Miglia UAE returns, it is clearly becoming more than an annual event and is evolving into a regional tradition. For me, the opportunity to join again, especially with my daughter experiencing the journey, feels deeply meaningful. The Mille Miglia is not just about driving; it’s about storytelling, history, and shared experiences passed down to the next generation, where the past and present meet on open roads under endless skies, celebrating the enduring beauty of the world’s most extraordinary automobiles.
