Learn to read the desert · guided by those born in it.
A driving, navigation and expedition academy at the heart of Erg Chebbi — private and group sessions, mentored by Ali Oubassidi, Rallye du Maroc and Dakar rally driver.
Driver · Instructor · Guide · Native of Merzouga
““The desert isn't visited. It's learned.””
Dakar Experience
Competing on the most demanding rally on the planet.
Rallye du Maroc Podium
Class podium on his own home terrain.
1,200+ Drivers Trained
A private academy out of Merzouga — every session bespoke.
A different way to approach the Sahara.
— Une académie, pas une agence. Une transmission, pas une visite. Le désert, lu de l'intérieur, par ceux qui en sont nés.
Born in Merzouga, Ali reads the dunes like a mother tongue — orientation, sand, light, weather.
A driver of Rallye du Maroc and Dakar 2026, he teaches a committed, never reckless line.
A family heritage — the Ksar Bicha — where every expedition ends around the fire.
Ali Oubassidi.
Founder of Desert Drive Academy, mentor, rally driver and son of the Sahara.
Ali grew up between the dunes of Erg Chebbi and his family's mechanical workshop. A driver entered in Rallye du Maroc and preparing the Dakar 2026, he founded the Academy to transmit — not a tour of the desert, but a true mastery of it. Every session is private, progressive, technical and deeply human.
Read the full story“This podium is the result of our hard work and passion for rallying. Winning here, at home, is truly magical.”
Choose your line in the desert.
Seven distinct experiences, each designed for a different intention — to learn, to navigate, to cross, to host.
- 01
4x4 Training
Master the vehicle, the dune and yourself.
See the experience - 02
Roadbook Navigation
Read the desert like a rally driver.
See the experience - 03
Private Coaching
One mentor, one student, one terrain.
See the experience - 04
Sahara Expeditions
Guided crossings, from 20 hours to 7 days.
See the experience - 05
Sunset Buggy
The Erg Chebbi in SSV, at the golden hour.
See the experience - 06
Sand Golf
An improbable green, carved into the dune.
See the experience - 07
Ksar Bicha
Luxury camp, Berber dinner, infinite sky.
See the experience
“Ali ne montre pas le désert — il l'enseigne. Trois jours avec lui, et on rentre avec une lecture du sable qu'aucune agence ne pourrait transmettre.”
Plan your Sahara with Ali.
Talk to Ali directly on WhatsApp, or send your intent. Reply within 24 hours.