Abstract
<jats:p>Off-roading is a deeply rooted part of the UAE's outdoor culture, offering a unique blend of adventure, community, and heritage. However, the activity is fraught with complex challenges related to safety, planning, and communication, particularly in the context of desert environments where heat, visibility, and connectivity vary drastically. This literature review identifies clear limitations in existing digital tools, highlighting issues of fragmentation, cultural irrelevance, and safety gaps. Drawing on regional and global studies, the review outlines how a tailored platform (OffTrack) can directly meet the needs of UAE off-road drivers by integrating terrain-specific navigation, real-time group coordination, localized language support, and emergency response features. OffTrack is envisioned not merely as a utility but as a strategic response to the intersection of environmental risks and evolving mobility expectations. It aligns with national digital transformation goals, particularly those related to transport safety and inclusive access.</jats:p>