Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2024 Sets Record Attendance, 2025 set to be bigger

The Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has confirmed its biggest year yet in 2024, with AED 1.25 billion in visitor spending generated across four days, according to organiser Ethara. A record-breaking 192,000 fans attended the event at Yas Marina Circuit, marking a 12.9% increase from 2023’s 170,000 visitors.

Of those attendees, 70% came from abroad, underlining the global appeal of the Abu Dhabi race. The event has now firmly established itself as more than just a motorsport fixture, becoming a major destination for tourism and entertainment.

Record Crowds and Economic Impact

The 2024 visitor spend surpassed the previous record of AED 1.165 billion, representing a 6.8% year-over-year growth. Saif Al Noaimi, CEO of Ethara, said:

“The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix continues to raise the bar, generating AED 1.25 billion across four unforgettable days. Fans are telling us they trust in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix experience, both on and off the track. That excitement drives us to keep pushing boundaries and deliver extraordinary moments every year.”

Saif Al Noaimi | CEO of Ethara

The race also proved a tourism driver: 85% of international fans arrived by air, with over half visiting Abu Dhabi for the first time and many extending their stay to explore the UAE.

More Than Just Racing

Fans holding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix tickets enjoyed free access to Yas Island theme parks and cultural landmarks like Louvre Abu Dhabi and Qasr Al Watan, generating 30,000 recorded visits during race week. For 2025, ticket perks will expand further to include access to teamLab Phenomena.

The event’s Yasalam After-Race Concerts, presented by e&, drew 110,000 concertgoers over four nights, keeping fans engaged on Yas Island well beyond the races.

Global Reach

The Grand Prix reached far beyond Yas Marina Circuit, with 62 million viewers worldwide tuning in for the 2024 season finale via broadcast and streaming platforms. Social media also amplified its presence, with F1 teams, drivers, and celebrities boosting the event’s global reach to an estimated 4.6 billion online impressions.

Local Benefits

The race continues to make a strong economic contribution to the UAE, with 88% of the event’s staff sourced locally in 2024. This includes young professionals, temporary workers, SMEs, and local suppliers, reinforcing the event’s community impact.

Looking Ahead: 2025 Edition

The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, scheduled for December 4–7, is already seeing unprecedented demand, with the majority of tickets sold well in advance. The event will align with Abu Dhabi’s Tourism 2030 vision, cementing the emirate as a hub for sport, culture, and entertainment.

With a blockbuster Yasalam concert line-up, expanded Etihad Airways routes, and new cultural attractions on Saadiyat Island, the 2025 race is expected to set new records for visitor numbers, spending, and international visibility.