Automotive
Meet The Females Playing a Vital Role Behind the Scenes At “Dubai Autodrome’s” Motorsport Events
As the world prepares to celebrate International Women’s Day, two ladies who have been involved in motorsport events at “Dubai Autodrome” this season have spoken of their passion for the sport and hope other women can follow in their footsteps. “Dubai Autodrome” is a subsidiary of Union Properties.


Dr. Sandra Mrad and Maha Younes are among the women who regularly give up their time and energy behind the scenes at Dubai Autodrome to help deliver motorsport events safely, offering swift assistance should any incident arise. Recently, they were part of a team, where a third of the venue’s officials were women during the Asian Le Mans race.
Dr. Sandra, who hails from Lebanon, serves as the Deputy Chief Medical Officer, a role she has held since October 2022 alongside her full-time job as an Emergency Medicine Consultant at American Hospital, Dubai. Her responsibilities at Dubai Autodrome include effective and efficient delivery of high-quality medical and emergency services during motorsport events, and facilitating pre-hospital training before each international event, such as rescue theory, scene management, and emergency care.
Having been involved in elite international and regional events such as the 24 Hours Dubai and Asian Le Mans, she loves being part of a motorsport environment.
She said: “What I enjoy most about my role at Dubai Autodrome is the unique blend of emergency medicine and motorsports. Unlike a traditional hospital setting, working trackside puts me at the heart of the action, where quick thinking, teamwork, and specialised skills are essential to ensuring driver safety. The fast-paced nature of motorsports keeps me constantly engaged, and every event presents new challenges that require adaptability and precision.
“Beyond the medical aspect, I find motorsports fascinating. Being part of a world-class racing venue like Dubai Autodrome gives me the opportunity to witness incredible talent, cutting-edge technology, and the sheer adrenaline that comes with high-speed competition. Knowing that my role plays a crucial part in making these events safer and more efficient is what truly makes my work fulfilling,” she added, who says the Asian Le Mans is one of her favourite races due to the “combination of speed, strategy, and endurance.”
For Maha, who hails from Syria, her work at Dubai Autodrome also sees her on the trackside of Dubai Autodrome’s circuit as a Race Marshall. It is a position she is well familiar with, having been doing the role for six years alongside her full-time job at a private company.
As part of her duties as a Race Marshall, she utilises skills such as teamwork, communication, and reporting, while contributing to maintaining the highest safety standards in races and championships.
She said: “My role is crucial in ensuring race safety and smooth operations. I work closely with teams to maintain race flow and respond quickly to any incidents on track. This job requires precision, teamwork, and fast decision-making to guarantee a safe and fair racing environment.
“Overall, I truly love this community—it feels like a big, united family, full of skilled and passionate professionals. The atmosphere is friendly, thrilling, and full of energy, with every race bringing new challenges and unforgettable experiences.”
Both Dr. Sandra and Maha believe it is encouraging that more women are getting involved in the motorsport landscape on trackside following the Asian Le Mans and hope more females can follow in their footsteps.
Dr. Sandra said: “My advice is simple: believe in yourself, embrace challenges, and never let stereotypes define your path. The world of motorsports medicine is fast-paced, demanding, and often seen as a male-dominated field, but that should never be a barrier. If you have the passion, the skills, and the determination, there is absolutely a place for you here.
“Seek out mentors who can provide insight, share experiences, and help you navigate your journey. The path may not always be easy, but the reward of doing what you love, making an impact, and breaking barriers is worth every step.”
Maha added: “I encourage all women to join the world of motorsports! It’s an incredible opportunity to be closer to the action, work with amazing teams, and experience professional racing first-hand. Women have a place in every part of this industry, from officiating to technical roles and beyond.”
Automotive
New Ford Taurus Arrives to Middle East, Bringing Best-in-Class Technology and Driving Experience to Sedan Customers
Ford Middle East and North Africa has marked the official arrival of the new Taurus in the Middle East. Building on its storied legacy, this latest iteration introduces sophisticated design, cutting-edge features, and a blend of premium comfort and dynamic performance tailored for the diverse needs of the region.
Commanding attention with a completely refreshed aesthetic, with its exterior boasting a bold new front and rear fascia, updated headlamp architecture, and distinctive new wheel designs, while new vibrant colors like Hot Pepper Red and Vapor Blue ensured Taurus makes an undeniable visual statement. The interior, too, receives significant enhancements with new color and material choices, refined seat trims, and a modified console designed for heightened comfort and contemporary style.
Ravi Ravichandran, President of Ford Middle East and North Africa, said: “The new Ford Taurus represents a pivotal evolution for one of Ford’s most successful nameplates, designed specifically with our loyal Middle East and North African customers in mind. This sedan combines a rich heritage with forward-thinking innovation, making it perfectly timed for customers seeking a vehicle that blends prestige, practicality, and advanced technology.”
The newest Taurus is engineered to lead, offering a choice of powerful and efficient powertrains. Under the hood, the robust 2.0L EcoBoost engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, continues to deliver commendable performance, producing an impressive 239 horsepower and 382 Nm of torque. For those prioritizing even greater fuel efficiency, the 1.5L Hybrid engine offers an enhanced drive without compromising on power. The result is a pair of powertrains that meet diverse driving preferences while delivering a smooth and responsive experience across city streets and open highways.

At the heart of the new Taurus’ comprehensive technology upgrades is Ford’s latest-generation SYNC 4A infotainment system, presented on an impressive 13.2-inch full HD center touchscreen—one of the biggest in its class. This intuitive system offers seamless connectivity with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
New features that further redefine Ford’s flagship sedan’s convenience and luxury include a 360-degree camera, now available from the base Ambiente model, and a premium 10-speaker B&O Sound System integrated into the top-tier Titanium series for an immersive audio experience.
Building on its reputation for spaciousness, the new Taurus also caters effectively to families, providing ample cargo space and roomy interiors for both daily commutes and long journeys. Additionally, ventilated seats, available from the Trend trim, guarantees optimal comfort in any climate, while the available dual-panel panoramic sunroof enhances the cabin’s sense of openness and luxury.
Equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance safety and ease of driving—where features such as Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control; Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking; and the Lane-Keeping System with Blind Spot Monitoring and Cross-Traffic Alert, Taurus is peace of mind in motion. The 360-degree camera supplements it further by providing a comprehensive view for easier maneuvering and parking, backed up by Intersection Pre-collision Assist, and Emergency Steering Assist for extra support to help avoid incidents.
Taurus is also ushering in a new era of connected vehicle experiences, with the Ford Pass app available in select Middle East markets, offering added convenience, control, and peace of mind. New Ford Taurus owners can now remotely start their vehicle, pre-condition the cabin to their preferred temperature, and even activate the horn and lights to easily locate their car in a crowded parking lot. The all-new app also provides essential vehicle status updates, allowing users to monitor vital information such as fuel levels, odometer readings, tire pressure, and oil, placing a host of functionalities directly into the customer’s hands.
The arrival of the New Ford Taurus is a strategic move that reinforces Ford’s commitment to providing a diverse portfolio of vehicles that resonate with regional customers, from tried and trusted EcoBoost-powered engines to New Energy hybrids complementing the Middle East region’s ambitious sustainability goals.
With its blend of everyday usability, value for money, and strong dealer support, the new Ford Taurus—in showrooms now—is crafted to strengthen its leadership in the segment and continue its legacy across the Middle East and North Africa.
Automotive
BMW Motorrad Middle East and AGMC showcase next-generation frontline motorcycles at Intersec 2026.
BMW Motorrad Middle East along with AGMC, the authorised importer of BMW Group vehicles for Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, showcases BMW Motorrad’s latest Authority and Protection motorcycles at Intersec 2026, the world’s leading trade fair for security, safety and fire protection, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Intersec brings together global leaders, government entities and industry experts to explore the technologies shaping the future of public safety and emergency response. As part of this year’s exhibition, there is a lineup of BMW Motorrad motorcycles specifically engineered to support frontline and authority operations across diverse and demanding environments in the emirate.
Purpose-built authority motorcycles on display
On display at the BMW Motorrad and AGMC stand are the four BMW Motorrad Authority models, each designed to deliver reliability, performance and adaptability in real-world operational conditions:
BMW R 1300 RT-P
The BMW R 1300 RT-P is a touring-focused authority motorcycle designed for high-performance patrol duties and everyday operational versatility. It combines excellent ergonomics and long-distance comfort with outstanding maneuverability in urban traffic. Powered by BMW’s 1,300 cc ShiftCam boxer engine delivering 145 hp and 149 Nm of torque, the RT-P provides strong, efficient performance and high stability for demanding authority use.
BMW R 1300 GS-P
The BMW R 1300 GS-P is a highly capable all-terrain authority motorcycle built for operation across mixed and challenging environments. Its air/liquid-cooled 1,300 cc boxer engine produces 145 hp and 149 Nm of torque, ensuring confident performance on and off road. Advanced rider assistance systems support stability, safety and control, making the GS-P a reliable platform for complex operational requirements.
BMW F 900 GS-P
The BMW F 900 GS-P is a versatile enduro motorcycle designed for authority operations on asphalt and unpaved surfaces. Its parallel-twin engine delivers strong, controllable performance, while the lightweight design and 14.5-litre plastic fuel tank contribute to improved handling and operational efficiency. The F 900 GS-P offers a balanced combination of agility, rider comfort and safety-focused technology.
BMW F 800 GS-P
The BMW F 800 GS-P is a proven midsize adventure motorcycle offering efficient performance and confident handling. With an output of 87 hp and a balanced chassis, it delivers dependable capability without excessive fuel consumption. Its manageable weight and rider-focused ergonomics support safe, controlled operation in demanding situations.
Steve Noon, Head of BMW Motorrad Middle East, said: “At BMW Motorrad we take pride in delivering purpose-built motorcycles that support law enforcement agencies in carrying out their duties with confidence and precision. Our ongoing commitment to innovation and rider-focused engineering has established BMW Motorrad as a trusted and leading choice for authority fleets in the region.”
Muhamet Latifi, General Manager for BMW Motorrad at AGMC, commented: “The participation of AGMC with BMW Motorrad Middle East at intersec 2026 reinforces our ongoing commitment to delivering specialised mobility solutions for authority and government partners. By combining advanced engineering, rider-focused technology and adaptable performance, BMW Motorrad’s Authority motorcycles continue to set benchmarks in reliability and operational readiness.”
Intersec is currently underway at the Dubai World Trade Centre, with visitors invited to experience BMW Motorrad’s Authority and Protection range firsthand throughout the exhibition.
Automotive
NIO Inc. Provides December, Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Delivery Update: Achieving a New Record-High Monthly and Quarterly Deliveries
In December 2025, NIO Inc. delivered 48,135 vehicles globally, marking a new monthly record and representing a year-on-year increase of 54.6%. The NIO brand delivered 31,897 vehicles, achieving a historic high with 54.8% year-on-year growth, and recording five consecutive months of growth. The ONVO brand delivered 9,154 vehicles in December. The firefly brand delivered 7,084 vehicles, reaching a new monthly record, with a month-on-month increase of 16.4%, and attaining five consecutive months of growth.
In the fourth quarter of 2025, NIO Inc. achieved record-high quarterly deliveries of 124,807 vehicles, representing a 71.7% year-over-year increase. Deliveries of the NIO brand reached 67,433 vehicles, marking an all-time high and a 27.8% year-over-year growth. The ONVO brand delivered 38,290 vehicles in the fourth quarter, posting a 92.1% year-over-year increase. Deliveries of the firefly brand totaled 19,084 in the fourth quarter, achieving a record high and representing a 52.8% quarter-over-quarter increase.
In 2025, NIO Inc. delivered a total of 326,028 vehicles, representing a new annual record and a year-on-year increase of 46.9%. Total deliveries of the NIO brand reached 178,806. The ONVO brand delivered 107,808 in 2025, hitting a record high. The firefly brand delivered 39,414 vehicles for the year.
As of today, NIO Inc. has cumulatively delivered 997,592 vehicles. Cumulative deliveries of the NIO, ONVO, and firefly brands reached 829,609, 128,569, and 39,414 vehicles respectively.
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