The ABB FIA Formula E Championship is set to make its debut in the Middle East next season in Riyadh, with the Saudi Arabian capital scheduled to host the opening round of the electric series’ 2018-19 season five in December.

Formula E will bring international racing to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the very first time as part of a 10-year agreement with the General Sports Authority and Saudi Arabian Motor Federation.

The announcement was made by His Royal Highness Prince Khaled Bin Sultan Bin Abdullah AlFaisal, President of the Saudi Arabian Motor Federation, and His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal Al Saud, Vice-Chair of the Saudi Arabia General Sports Authority, together with Formula E Founder and CEO Alejandro Agag.

Pending confirmation of the calendar by the FIA World Motor Sport Council, the E-Prix will see the Formula E cars navigate the streets of the Ad Diriyah district — with experienced motorsports promoter Carlo Boutagy tasked to deliver and promote the race through his company, CBX. Further details on the location and circuit layout will be revealed at a later date.

“Bringing racing to Riyadh for the first round of the new season is the perfect setting for the next phase of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship. An exciting and vibrant country that is focussing on its future, Saudi Arabia will be the ideal venue to mark the competitive debut of the next generation Formula E cars,” Formula E Founder and CEO Alejandro Agag said.