Middle East’s First All-Women Supercar Club Challenges Stereotypes

The Arabian Gazelles, an all-female supercar club in the Middle East, recently held a rally in Dubai, bringing together women from various backgrounds united by their passion for supercars. The club was founded by Hanan Mazouzi Sobati to address the lack of representation for women in the automotive scene. Their activities aim to change perceptions around women and supercars while showcasing their skills on race tracks, emphasizing that women do not need permission to pursue their automotive interests.

In a significant move for the automotive world, the Arabian Gazelles, the first all-female supercar club in the Middle East, recently held a car rally that shattered traditional perceptions of petrolhead culture. This event, which was organized in Dubai, drew in dozens of women from diverse backgrounds, ranging from engineers and entrepreneurs to housewives, all united by their love for high-performance vehicles.

Over a weekend, thirty women participated in a remarkable four-day tour across the United Arab Emirates. This initiative was instigated by Hanan Mazouzi Sobati, who established the Arabian Gazelles eight years ago to advocate for greater female representation in the automotive scene. “It’s really a product of sheer frustration … because women were overlooked in this automotive scene,” Mazouzi Sobati shared, highlighting the need for change.

Her lifelong enthusiasm for cars dates back to her childhood, where instead of indulging in cartoons, she watched Formula 1 races. This love for supercars has now transformed into a mission to alter prevailing stereotypes about women in this male-dominated field. Mazouzi Sobati recalled her experiences as largely a solitary woman in automotive gatherings, often attending events meant for men, and even then, often substituted for her husband who was not particularly interested in cars.

Initially, garnering support from automotive brands presented challenges, as she noted, “Brands wouldn’t support an all-woman car club at the start.” However, as the Arabian Gazelles made strides, changing perceptions did not seem so distant. The recent rally included an invitation from BMW for the women to drive on race tracks, allowing them to showcase their skills and passion for supercars.

Mazouzi Sobati firmly believes that women should not feel the need to justify their place within this realm of supercars. “We do not need permission to drive, or to choose what kind of cars to drive,” she stated, emphasizing autonomy and passion. “If the seat is not available, we create the table and we all sit.” Her words speak to the burgeoning movement among women in the car community, aiming for inclusivity and recognition.

The Arabian Gazelles are not just about fast cars; they symbolize a shift in cultural attitudes toward women in the automotive industry. With events like this rally, they are pushing boundaries and challenging stereotypes, paving the way for future generations of female automobile enthusiasts.

The Arabian Gazelles are making waves in the automotive world by challenging stereotypes and advocating for women’s involvement in supercars. Founded by Hanan Mazouzi Sobati, this club is more than just a gathering of fast car aficionados; it is a movement aiming for change. With events like the recent rally, they are not only showcasing their love for cars but also reshaping perceptions about women’s roles in the automotive community.

Original Source: www.mymotherlode.com