Nissan Flies the Flag for People with Special Needs in Saudi Arabia

Nissan has once again sponsored and supported the efforts of Saudi Arabia’s inspirational young rally driver, Fahad Al Abdullatif. Being deaf has not stopped his determination to compete at the highest levels of regional motorsport and his hard work and dedication to rally driving has paid off with the most promising of starts.

“In 2015, this young man turned his dreams into reality by becoming the first person with special needs ever to take part in a rally in Saudi Arabia,” says Abdul Ilah Wazni, General Marketing and Corporate Communications Manager, Nissan KSA. “And Nissan supported him all the way since his start in Rally Jeddah 2015. We did the same again in 2016, by sponsoring him, providing financial support, as well as clothing and, naturally, the training on regulations, navigation and equipment utility – much of which is uniquely tailored to his individual needs.”

Last year Abdullatif made history by competing in the notoriously tough Jeddah Rally, in which he finish seventh in the T2 category and 13th overall – a remarkable achievement which resulted in him being honored by the patronage of HRH Prince Mishaal bin Majed, Governor of Jeddah.

Abdullatif is a real car enthusiast, spending his free time modifying vehicles and competing in them, as well as taking part in lengthy road trips. And this month’s Ha’il International Rally saw him in action again, with the assistance of Nissan.

“Nissan was the first company to become actively involved in motorsport in the Kingdom,” continues Wazni, “and we are extremely proud to be able to play such an important role in the efforts of this courageous young man. We promise ‘Innovation That Excites’ and few things are more thrilling for this nation’s youth than motorsport. No matter what a person’s personal situation is, if we see drive and commitment then we feel compelled to assist in any way we can.”

Apart from Abdullatif and his skilled co-driver, Nissan in this year have sponsored and supported another 23 drivers and co-drivers in total by providing equipment, training and financial backing. Nissan also provided for the Ha’il community through activations that highlight the region’s rich and diverse heritage which include best cook & best handicraft competitions and hosting other exciting activities including karting, drifting, 4x4 Patrol experience, and football engagement games.