Experience the Thrill of Gran Turismo: Abu Dhabi to Host World Series for the First Time

Published on December 21, 2025

The Gran Turismo World Series will make history in 2026 by holding its opening event in Abu Dhabi, marking the first time the prestigious esports championship has been hosted in the Middle East. Set for March 28, 2026, at the Space42 Arena, the event will showcase the world’s top Gran Turismo drivers as they compete in a live championship, drawing attention from millions of esports fans worldwide. This landmark occasion is not only a major moment for the gaming community but also a significant milestone for Abu Dhabi as a growing hub for esports tourism in the region.

Abu Dhabi’s selection to host this global event underlines the city’s burgeoning position as a leader in sports and entertainment, while also promoting its evolving role in the world of digital and virtual sports. With its state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure, the city is set to offer a first-class experience for fans and competitors alike, contributing to its increasing popularity as a prime destination for international events.

Gran Turismo World Series: A Global Esports Event

The Gran Turismo World Series is one of the most well-known and respected esports tournaments in the world. Originating from the popular Gran Turismo video game franchise, which has sold over 80 million copies globally, the tournament attracts top drivers who compete in virtual races using high-performance racing simulators. These competitions are held across various locations worldwide, and the 2026 opener in Abu Dhabi is expected to bring together the best players from across the globe, making it an exciting event for both the digital and traditional motorsport communities.

The event will feature high-stakes, fast-paced races, where competitors will demonstrate their skills on digital race tracks. The Space42 Arena, a modern venue with cutting-edge technology, will be transformed into a high-energy hub for the event, offering a dynamic atmosphere for live audiences. In addition to the competition itself, fans will have the opportunity to interact with sponsors, take part in related events, and enjoy a festival of gaming culture.

Tourism Boost for Abu Dhabi

The Gran Turismo World Series opening event in Abu Dhabi is expected to draw a significant number of international visitors, boosting the emirate’s tourism industry. Esports enthusiasts, families, and travel groups will flock to Abu Dhabi, eager to witness the competition in person and explore the city’s many attractions. The event is poised to attract visitors from all over the world, particularly from Europe, Asia, and North America, where the Gran Turismo fanbase is particularly strong.

Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a tourism and events destination will be further enhanced by this event. The city is already known for its luxurious hotels, world-class shopping, cultural landmarks, and diverse dining options, making it a perfect destination for a multi-faceted travel experience. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore top attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, and the Formula 1 Yas Marina Circuit during their stay, all while experiencing the excitement of one of the world’s top esports events.

Promoting Esports and Digital Tourism in Abu Dhabi

The successful hosting of the Gran Turismo World Series opener aligns with Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to establish itself as a key destination for esports tourism. The city has been investing heavily in digital and virtual sports, including the creation of dedicated esports venues and the development of infrastructure to support large-scale gaming events. Hosting the Gran Turismo event is a natural extension of these efforts, positioning Abu Dhabi as an important player in the growing global esports market.

The event also supports Abu Dhabi’s ambition to diversify its tourism offerings, moving beyond traditional attractions and into the digital realm. Esports events such as the Gran Turismo World Series offer a unique experience that attracts a younger, tech-savvy demographic, who may also be interested in the region’s other technology and entertainment offerings.

The Future of Esports in Abu Dhabi

The upcoming Gran Turismo World Series event is expected to be just the beginning of Abu Dhabi’s future involvement in the esports scene. The UAE capital has already established a reputation for hosting world-class sporting events such as the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship and Formula 1 Grand Prix, and esports are becoming an increasingly important part of this sporting landscape. Future events, including gaming conventions, tournaments, and gaming festivals, are likely to further enhance Abu Dhabi’s role in the global esports industry.

In addition to attracting esports enthusiasts, these events also offer opportunities for business partnerships and investment in the digital sector, further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub for innovation and digital culture in the Middle East.

Event Details and How to Participate

Fans of Gran Turismo and esports enthusiasts eager to experience the thrill of the competition firsthand can visit the Space42 Arena in Abu Dhabi for the live event. Tickets for the competition will be available for purchase in advance, and visitors can also participate in a variety of fan activities around the event. The arena will offer an immersive experience, featuring interactive displays, sponsor activations, and exclusive merchandise for fans to take home.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be broadcast live online, allowing fans around the world to follow the action and cheer on their favorite drivers. Online streaming platforms will provide extensive coverage of the event, offering insights into the competition and behind-the-scenes access.

Conclusion: Abu Dhabi Shines on the Global Esports Stage

Abu Dhabi’s hosting of the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 opener marks a major milestone for the city’s tourism and esports sectors. By attracting top esports competitors and fans from around the world, the event will showcase Abu Dhabi as an international destination for digital sports and entertainment. With its luxurious offerings, vibrant cultural scene, and growing digital infrastructure, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a key player in the global esports tourism market. This exciting event promises to draw thousands of visitors, adding another layer of excitement to the city’s dynamic tourism offerings in 2026.