Today's Edition
BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
The Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has become a central driver of tourism, hospitality and cultural engagement in the UAE capital, generating a macroeconomic impact of Dh1.25 billion in 2024 - up 6.8% from Dh1.165 billion in 2023, said Saif Rashid Al Noaimi, CEO of Ethara and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Expectations of continued growth remain high as the highly anticipated event revs up for its 17th edition in December, Al Noaimi told Aletihad.
“Last year’s race had 192,000 attendees over the weekend, the highest-ever attendance - and 70% of those attendees were coming from outside the country,” he said.
With such traction, the event’s economic impact goes far beyond the racetrack itself, the CEO said.
“The macroeconomic impact for 2024 reached Dh1.25 billion, which is direct positive impact on the economy of Abu Dhabi, on the tourism industry, on hotels, on hospitality, as well as the track itself,” he said.
In 2024, 85% of international visitors arrived by air. More than half came to Abu Dhabi for the first time and many turned their stays into full holidays, exploring the UAE well after the chequered flag had been waved, according to a statement from Ethara.
What’s New At This Year’s Grand Prix?
The Grand Prix’s appeal encompasses a wide range of experiences that come bundled with a ticket, Al Noaimi said.
For 2025, ticket holders will have access to TeamLab Phenomena in Saadiyat and cultural attractions such as Qasr Al Watan and the Louvre Abu Dhabi - giving them a good view of what Abu Dhabi has to offer, he added.
Looking ahead to this year’s race, Al Noaimi said the focus remains on enhancing the customer journey while supporting Abu Dhabi’s Tourism 2030 vision - showcasing the emirate as a world-class destination for sport, culture, and entertainment.
He revealed that a new hospitality experience will be introduced at Turn 16 of the racetrack this year, offering a 360-degree view near one of the most thrilling sections of the circuit-an experience never offered before.
A new hospitality product is also in the final stages of planning and will be announced in the coming weeks, Al Noaimi said.
The 2025 race also comes on the heels of the recent F1 movie’s box office success - a cultural moment that has further amplified global interest in the sport.
“The recent F1 movie shot its finale at Yas Marina Circuit, showing the world our track and our city,” Al Noaimi added.
In 2021, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix became the most viewed race in Formula 1 history, with more than 180 million people watching globally.
“That visibility showcased Yas Marina Circuit and Abu Dhabi on the world stage in a way like never before,” he said.
Showcasing Abu Dhabi to the World
Beyond Formula 1, Ethara - a pioneer in the region’s live events and venue management industry - contributes to Abu Dhabi’s wider sports, culture, and entertainment strategy.
“We are involved in major global events like the NBA Games happening this week in Abu Dhabi, and the UFC coming later in October,” Al Noaimi said.
He emphasised Ethara’s pride and commitment to supporting Abu Dhabi’s tourism and culture goals. “We are proud to be part of this journey, showcase Abu Dhabi to the world, and deliver experiences that go beyond racing. The Grand Prix is not just a sporting event, it is an engine for tourism, culture, and economic growth.”
