The RAG is a nine-day rally raid across the western Sahara, and is for women-only. It consists of five étapes (stages) and two marathon legs and uses only manual navigation (map and compass).

Sustainability is a major aspect; it is the only rally in the world with an environmental certification of ISO 14001:2004. All waste is sorted accordingly and repurposed, recycled, or incinerated.

Carbon emissions are offset via the Yann Arthus Bertrand Good Planet Foundation. Additionally, all Gazelles sign a charter of good behaviour to leave no trace and reduce waste as much as possible.

The Coeur des Gazelles is a humanitarian effort set forth by the rally and a long list of volunteers. The Coeur caravan stays at the same bivouac as the competitors and travels to villages throughout the days in order to provide medical care, supplies, construction, and more. Gazelles who DNF the rally are invited to join the heart of the organization for the remaining stages.