For the Dubai-based Lithuanian couple Arunas Gelazninkas and Emilija Gelazninkas, love and business went hand in hand when they met and decided to launch the global brand AG Dakar Dubai in 2019. Emilija, a professional racer, rally driver, and co-owner, shared that they faced challenges due to the unique nature of their business but persevered through setbacks to reach their goals. Arunas, a sportsman and multiple-time Dakar rally winner, focused on the sport aspect while Emilija handled business goals and communication.
Emilija, the first female from the Baltic states to compete in the Dakar rally, has achieved notable success in various fields including founding a sports camp in Dubai, cycling, and pilates. Arunas, on the other hand, is a respected figure in the Dakar circuit, having won the Original by Motul category for motorcycles without assistance twice. The couple, now celebrating five years in business, took a leap of faith as the first in Lithuania to start their unique venture and are excited about the expanding possibilities globally.
The UAE played a significant role in the couple’s journey from their early stages in Dubai to competing in the challenging Dakar rally. Recently, their team successfully completed two rounds of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, with three riders in the moto class and one pilot in the buggy SSV class. The AG Dakar Dubai team made it to the top10, showcasing their skills and determination in the race.
Emilija’s dream of excelling in the dunes led to the establishment of their own Dakar school in Dubai, with the couple collaborating with MX Ride Dubai and local motorsport star Mohamed Al Balooshi. Their commitment to doing things the best way possible, finding the perfect terrain and welcoming off-roading enthusiasts, has contributed to their success in training amateurs and taming the dunes with their racing prowess. The couple’s journey is a testament to their passion, dedication, and ability to overcome challenges in pursuing their dreams in the world of motorsports.
