Israel team takes part in UAE car rally

An Israeli team has been invited to participate in the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge which began on Saturday, Israel’s Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper revealed yesterday.

The five-member team – two drivers and three technicians – are taking part in the five-day motor sport event in the UAE capital which is being held for the 28th time.

The Israeli newspaper noted that this participation is a new indicator of the warm relations Israel enjoys with the Gulf states and is a “milestone in sports relations”.

According to Yedioth Ahronoth, the Israeli team received a warm reception from the organisers.

UAE authorities did not confirm the presence of the team.

Israel and the UAE do not have any official diplomatic relations and according to Emirati law, Israeli nationals are not allowed entry in to the country.

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