Abu Dhabi, March 23 (IANS) An advanced satellite telecommunications facility will be provided during the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge in order to ensure smooth functioning of the international motor sport tournament, organisers announced Tuesday.
The 20th edition of the annual rally, organised by the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE), will include various competitions of two-wheelers, quad-bikes, cars and trucks.

The ATCUAE said leading satellite communications company Thuraya has been assigned to provide mobile satellite phones and internet terminals to participants and organising staff.

Unlike radio communication systems used earlier, the new satellite phones will help reduce response time in case of emergencies during the rally.

“This year, we have decided to forego the traditional radio system and instead adopt Thuraya’s advanced satellite telecommunications technology to enhance the quality and reliability of communications which is vital for such events. It will also sharply reduce the response time in case of emergency,” ATCUAE president Mohammed ben Sulayem was quoted as saying by WAM news agency.

The five-day rally, beginning March 27, is being facilitated by the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority.