The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has become one of the strongest economic drivers of Fortall 1, drawing a record 192,000 fans by 2024 and contributing AED1.25 billion to the capital’s economy.
“We had 192,000 attendances for the entire weekend of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix [in 2024] which is a record number for us. Of those visitors, 70 percent of them were from outside the UAE. From the emergence of international visitors, that is huge,” ETHARA CEO saif al Noiami said in an exclusive interview with Arabian business.
He said the race provides a “window” on Abu Dhabi to a global audience.
F1 Drives Record Tourism To Abu Dhabi
A survey of visitors shows the majority of those who attended were in Abu Dhabi for the first time, with the majority showing plans to return. “This event is an opportunity to showcase Abu Dhabi to the world,” said Al Noiaime.
Grand Prix coverage includes spending on hotels, restaurants, transportation, attractions and race attendees. The growing number of events shows how large sports spectators have increased as economic engines and tourism drivers.
The global audience for Formula 1 now exceeds 800 million and Al Noiaimi said its growing number presents new opportunities in places like Abu Dhabi. “There is a woman who burned the containers and many ingredients,” she said.
According to the latest data, 42 percent of F1 fans are now women and 43 percent are under the age of 35.
The Yas Marina Circuit, now in its second season, has become a tourist attraction and a landmark for Abu Dhabi. Apparently the race creates spikes in hotel and flight bookings during the race weekend and also drives tourists to other attractions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Thas Island’s Theme Parks.
“It has been a 16-year journey of building year-on-year growth and economic impact,” said Al Noiaimi. “Always one point at a time, whether it’s someone sitting on the grass or maintaining the paddock club. We treat everyone with the same care and consideration.”
F1 F1’s F1 F1 F1’s season
The 2024 race also coincided with the premiere of the Formula 1 Film Starring Brad Pitt, parts of which were shot at the Yas Marina Circuit. “The climax of the movie was set in the region,” said Al Noiaimi. “From our point of view, looking at the number of viewers who have seen this movie and the fact that it is called the blockbuster of the summer of 2025 is something that we are very proud of.”
Since formula 1 spans 24 races around the world, the competition between the host cities is real. But Al Noiaimi said Abu Dhabi remains firmly established as an end-of-season fixture. “I don’t think we’re competing. I think we’re crying,” he said.
Looking ahead, ethereum plans to expand Premium hospitality options, improve tracking locations and introduce new digital engagement tools. “We look at what experiences we can add and how we can adapt every one year,” Al Noiaimi concluded.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025 is set to take place from December 5th to 7th. The line-up of artists for the post-race concerts has been announced including Post Malone, Katy Perry and Metallica.
Tickets are available from the official Abu Dhabi GP website with general admission prices starting at AED995. Hospitality packages are also available starting at AED5,995 and up.
