Early Academic Foundations

Dania Akeel’s story begins with a deep curiosity about people, societies and global dynamics. This interest led her to study Modern History and Politics at Royal Holloway University of London, where she developed a strong understanding of political structures, social change and the forces that shape decision-making. She later expanded her academic horizons with a Master’s degree in International Business from Hult International Business School. The combination of these two fields gave her a rare interdisciplinary edge, one grounded in global awareness, business logic and cultural intelligence. These foundations became essential throughout her evolving career and later, her athletic pursuits.

Professional Path and Early Career

After completing her studies, Dania returned to Saudi Arabia and joined the administration office of a newly opened school in Jeddah. This role exposed her to the complexities of building an organization from the ground up, from operations to communication and internal structure. She then entered consulting, where she worked closely with clients navigating growth, change and strategic challenges. Consulting refined her analytical thinking, adaptability and ability to guide others through uncertainty, skills that would later prove invaluable in high-pressure competitive racing environments. Throughout this period, Dania carried an underlying mindset of continuous personal development, setting the stage for the transformation that would follow.

Rise Through Motorsport

Motorsport became a defining chapter of Dania’s life. Her competitive journey began with motorcycle racing, entering the Ducati Cup in the UAE National Sportsbike Superseries during the 2019/2020 season. Despite being new to the sport, she demonstrated immediate potential and consistency, earning the “Rookie of the Year” trophy. This milestone marked the beginning of a passionate pursuit of excellence on the track.

In 2021, after witnessing the Dakar Rally arrive in Saudi Arabia, Dania shifted into rally-raid racing, a discipline known for its physical and mental intensity. She competed in the FIA World Cup for Bajas in the T3 class and won her category, showcasing rapid progression and resilience in unfamiliar terrain. She went on to complete her first Dakar Rally in 2022, finishing P8 out of 48 competitors in the T3 class. This achievement made her the first Saudi and Arab woman to reach such a result, carving her name into motorsport history.

Her growth continued as she moved to the Ultimate class in 2024, stepping into a category known for its demanding performance standards. That same year, she became the FIA Middle East Bajas Champion, marking the first overall rally championship win for any female worldwide. In 2025, she celebrated her first Dakar stage win in the Challenge category, reaffirming her place among the most prominent female figures in rally-raid racing today.

Mindset, Purpose and Personal Evolution

Beyond trophies and rankings, Dania’s story is grounded in intention. Her commitment to personal development drives her approach to sport, work and life. She sees challenge as a catalyst for growth, and every transition, from academia to consulting to world-level racing, reflects her capacity to evolve with purpose.

Dania speaks with clarity and authenticity about ambition, discipline, resilience and self-awareness. Her journey is not defined by linear success but by courage, adaptability and a deep belief in continuous progression. Whether addressing leadership teams, young professionals or audiences seeking motivation, she brings practical insights shaped by real-world pressure, cultural context and high-performance environments.

Book Dania Akeel for Your Event

Booking Dania means bringing a speaker who blends strategy, lived experience and inspiring determination. Her talks resonate with anyone facing transformation, uncertainty or demanding goals. She offers an engaging perspective shaped by international education, business experience and achievements in a sport that tests both the mind and the body. Her message empowers audiences to pursue growth deliberately, embrace challenges and shape their own path with confidence and purpose.