In a significant development for esports and motorsport, Abu Dhabi will host the opening event of the 2026 Gran Turismo World Series on March 28, 2026. This marks the first time the event will take place in the Middle East, showcasing the emirate’s growing prominence in the global gaming landscape. The event will occur at the Space42 Arena and promises to attract top Gran Turismo drivers from around the world.
The announcement came during the Gran Turismo World Series 2025 World Finals held at the Fukuoka International Congress Centre in Japan. H.E. Saeed Al Fazari, Executive Director of Strategic Affairs at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), expressed pride in hosting the prestigious event. He highlighted the opportunity for Abu Dhabi to demonstrate its capabilities in the esports sector and to engage with millions of fans globally.
The Gran Turismo World Series, organized by Polyphony Digital Inc., a subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment, features a series of online qualifiers and live events that determine the world’s best Gran Turismo player. The involvement of Abu Dhabi Gaming, an initiative by DCT Abu Dhabi, aims to establish the region as a leading global gaming hub.
H.E. Al Fazari stated, “Hosting the Gran Turismo World Series opener is a proud moment for Abu Dhabi and the wider MENA region, reflecting our ambition to be a destination where possibilities are limitless.” He underscored the event’s importance for the emirate’s esports and motorsport sectors and its role in attracting business and talent.
Kazunori Yamauchi, the series producer of Gran Turismo, also commented on the significance of the event, stating, “We are thrilled to see Abu Dhabi host the 2026 Gran Turismo World Series opener… This is a historic milestone for our championship and a testament to the region’s growing presence in global motorsport and esports.” Yamauchi further noted that the Yas Marina Circuit is now featured in Gran Turismo 7, enhancing the connection between the game and the real-world racing experience.
The inclusion of the Yas Marina Circuit in the game extends Abu Dhabi’s motorsport legacy into the digital domain, providing new opportunities for fans to experience the emirate’s competitive excellence. Marcos Muller-Habig, Sector Enablement Director at Abu Dhabi Gaming, remarked on the announcement’s importance for both motorsports and esports enthusiasts, emphasizing that it positions Abu Dhabi at the forefront of the global sim racing conversation.
As Abu Dhabi continues to strive for excellence in the gaming and esports industries, events like the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 serve as catalysts for growth. They are pivotal in building an ecosystem that attracts partnerships and accelerates business development.
Gran Turismo, which has recently surpassed 100 million sales, is recognized as one of the most visually and dynamically accurate driving simulators available. The forthcoming event in Abu Dhabi promises to be a landmark occasion that aligns with the emirate’s vision to become a premier global destination for innovation, entertainment, and motorsport.
For more information about the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 opener in Abu Dhabi and ticket availability, visit www.ticketmaster.ae/event/1588346815. Follow Abu Dhabi Gaming on social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and Twitch for updates.
