The 2025 Formula 1 season reaches its spectacular climax at the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. As the sun sets over Yas Island, the world’s best drivers will battle through 58 laps of the stunning Yas Marina Circuit in the only twilight race on the calendar. Whether you are planning a last-minute trip, looking for broadcast details, or scouting the best grandstand seats, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the most glamorous weekend in motorsport.

Fast Facts: F1 Abu Dhabi 2025 At a Glance

• Event Dates: Friday, December 5th – Sunday, December 7th, 2025

• Race Day: Sunday, December 7th, 2025

• Location: Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE

• Race Start Time: 5:00 PM Local Time (GST) / 1:00 PM GMT

• Circuit Length: 5.281 km (3.281 miles)

• Number of Laps: 58

When is the F1 Abu Dhabi 2025 Race Weekend?

The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix takes place from Friday, December 5th to Sunday, December 7th. The weekend follows the standard Formula 1 format, culminating in the championship-deciding Grand Prix on Sunday.

Here is the full confirmed schedule (all times are Local Gulf Standard Time (UTC+4)):

Session	Date	Time (Local GST)
Practice 1 (FP1)	Friday, Dec 5	1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Practice 2 (FP2)	Friday, Dec 5	5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Practice 3 (FP3)	Saturday, Dec 6	2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Qualifying	Saturday, Dec 6	6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Grand Prix Race	Sunday, Dec 7	5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

The Title Decider: Drivers & Contenders

The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is set to be the ultimate showdown, with the World Drivers' Championship still undecided heading into the final race. This season finale features a thrilling three-way battle for the crown.

Championship Contenders

The main fight is between three drivers, separated by only 16 points:

• Lando Norris (McLaren): The championship leader, Norris has demonstrated exceptional consistency and pace, only needing a podium finish to secure his maiden title.

• Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing): The reigning World Champion is chasing an incredible comeback, entering the finale just 12 points behind the leader. Known for his ruthless race craft, Verstappen is always a strong contender for the race victory at Yas Marina.

• Oscar Piastri (McLaren): The Australian remains the outside chance, only 16 points off the lead. His strong form earlier in the season makes him a definite threat for both the race win and the championship if the front-runners falter.

Key Drivers to Watch

While the title fight dominates the headlines, several other top-tier drivers are battling for position and aiming for a race win:

• George Russell & Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes): Mercedes has shown strong pace throughout the season, and both drivers are capable of challenging for the top steps of the podium, often disrupting the McLaren/Red Bull battle.

• Charles Leclerc & Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari): The legendary pairing at Ferrari continues to push, and the team will be eager to end the season with a strong result in the Constructors' battle.

Where is the Best Place to Watch the Race at Yas Marina?

The Yas Marina Circuit is a modern masterpiece located on Yas Island. The track is famous for its twilight timing—starting under the sun and finishing under floodlights—and its passing opportunities.

Choosing Your Vantage Point

• Main Grandstand: Overlooks the start/finish line and pit lane. Best for watching the pre-race grid preparations, the race start, and the podium ceremony.

• West Grandstand: Located at the end of the long back straight. This is a prime overtaking spot and offers a great atmosphere.

• North Grandstand: Offers views of the hairpin and the cars accelerating onto the long straight.

• Marina Grandstand: Situated above the support pits, offering views of the cars winding around the marina and yacht club.

• Abu Dhabi Hill (General Admission): An open grass bank opposite the North Grandstand. It offers panoramic views of the track at a more accessible price point.

How Can I Buy Official Abu Dhabi F1 Tickets?

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix offers a range of seating and experience options for every budget. Plan your purchase early to secure your preferred viewing location for the season finale.

Ticket Categories & Typical Pricing

• General Admission (Abu Dhabi Hill): Starting from approximately AED 995. This provides access to the hill and the F1 Fanzone.

• Grandstands: Starting from approximately AED 2,300. Includes reserved seating in the Main, North, West, South, or Marina grandstands.

• Hospitality: Starting from AED 5,670. Premium packages like the Paddock Club, Yas Suites, and team hospitality units offer gourmet catering, open bars, and air-conditioned comfort.

Tip: All tickets typically include access to the legendary Yasalam After-Race Concerts for the respective day of validity.

Who is Performing at the Yasalam After-Race Concerts?

The Yasalam After-Race Concerts at Etihad Park are a major attraction, with tickets granting you access to major international artists.

• Thursday, December 4: Benson Boone kicks off the weekend.

• Friday, December 5: Post Malone takes the stage, supported by Elyanna.

• Saturday, December 6: Heavy metal icons Metallica bring the energy after Qualifying.

• Sunday, December 7: Global superstar Katy Perry closes the season in spectacular fashion after the race.

Where Can I Watch the Race on TV?

Here is a summary of key broadcasters where you can catch every session of the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix live:

Region	Primary Broadcaster(s)
MENA (Middle East & North Africa)	beIN Sports
United Kingdom (UK) & Ireland	Sky Sports F1 / Channel 4 (Highlights)
USA	ESPN / ESPN Deportes
Canada	TSN / RDS
Global Streaming	F1 TV Pro (Available in select territories)

Extend Your F1 Trip: The Ultimate UAE Adventure

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix provides the perfect opportunity to extend your stay and explore the United Arab Emirates. We offer bespoke local tours that integrate perfectly with your F1 travel itinerary.

1. Get Behind the Scenes: Yas Marina Circuit Venue Tour

Experience the world’s most advanced circuit from the inside. Our dedicated Yas Marina Circuit Venue Tour offers a 2-hour, luxury air-conditioned vehicle journey through the track’s restricted areas.

Tour Highlights:

• Guided access to exclusive, behind-the-scenes areas, including Race Control, the State-of-the-Art Media Center, and the Paddock Building.

• A visit to the uniquely air-conditioned Pit Garages and the Team Villas.

• An unforgettable photo opportunity on the Winners Podium.

• The chance to walk along the iconic Start and Finish Line.

• Insightful commentary from an expert guide on the circuit's operations and F1 history.

2. Trade the Track for the Dunes: Premium Desert Safari

Swap the roar of V6 engines for the breathtaking serenity of the Arabian desert. We offer a range of specialized desert safari experiences to fit any schedule:

• Sunrise Desert Safari: For the ultimate tranquility, witness the sun rising over the golden dunes before the heat sets in.

• Morning Desert Safari: Perfect for early birds, focusing on thrilling dune bashing and sandboarding before you head to the circuit.

• Evening Desert Safari: The most popular option, concluding with exhilarating dune bashing, a camel ride, and a traditional BBQ dinner with cultural performances under the stars.

• Overnight Desert Safari: Combines the full evening experience with camping, allowing you to witness both the spectacular desert sunset and sunrise, complete with a traditional breakfast.

   

3. Discover the City's Wonders: Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Al Ain City Tours

The UAE is a land of stunning contrasts. Our guided city tours ensure you capture the historical depth and modern wonder of the region:

• Abu Dhabi City Tour: Visit the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, explore the traditional Emirates Heritage Village, and drive along the Corniche past the iconic Presidential Palace.

• Dubai City Tour: Explore the modern Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach (with Burj Al Arab views) before taking an Abra ride across Dubai Creek to the Gold and Spice Souks.

• Al Ain City Tour: Explore the "Garden City," visiting the Al Ain Oasis (UNESCO site), Al Jahili Fort, the lively Camel Market, and taking in views from Jebel Hafeet Mountain.