Abu Dhabi to Host Gran Turismo World Series 2026 Opening Event, a First for the Middle East

The Gran Turismo World Series 2026 Takes Off in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is preparing to host the inaugural event of the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 on March 28, 2026, marking a historic first for the Middle East. This momentous occasion will take place at the Space42 Arena, bringing together the world's top Gran Turismo players for a live championship display that will engage local fans and showcase Abu Dhabi's burgeoning esports scene to viewers across the globe.

The announcement was made during the Grand Finals of the Gran Turismo World Series 2025, held in Fukuoka, Japan. H.E. Saeed Al Fazari, the Executive Director of Strategic Affairs at the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, shared the stage with Kazunori Yamauchi, a prominent producer of the Gran Turismo series, to reveal this exciting news.

The Gran Turismo World Series is an annual competition aimed at identifying the best Gran Turismo player in the world, featuring open online qualifiers and live events that see elite drivers travel to iconic locations around the world. Being chosen as the host city for the opening event signifies Abu Dhabi's ambition to become a global esports hub.

H.E. Al Fazari expressed his pride, stating, "Hosting the inaugural round of the Gran Turismo World Series is a point of pride for Abu Dhabi and the broader MENA region, highlighting our desire to be a destination with limitless possibilities. This is a significant milestone for our esports and motorsport sectors, bringing elite global competition to the Emirate and showcasing Abu Dhabi's capability in delivering world-class esports and motorsport experiences."

Abu Dhabi Gaming, the initiative spearheaded by the Department of Culture and Tourism, is instrumental in this transition towards a thriving hub for video games. They aim to leverage events such as the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 to attract talent, investment, and innovation.

Kazunori Yamauchi, reflecting on this key moment, said, "We are thrilled that Abu Dhabi will host the first round of the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 in March 2026, marking the first time this event is held in the Middle East. This is a historic achievement for our championship and showcases the region's growing presence in global motorsports and esports. The Yas Marina Circuit, already featured in Gran Turismo 7, adds an exciting dimension to the experience for both automotive enthusiasts and the gaming community worldwide."

The Yas Marina Circuit's inclusion in Gran Turismo 7 extends Abu Dhabi's motorsport legacy into the digital realm, inviting a global audience to connect with the emirate's competitive spirit. This event not only attracts esports enthusiasts but also positions Abu Dhabi as a key player in the global conversation around simulation racing.

Marcos Muller Habig, Director of Sector Enabling at Abu Dhabi Gaming, emphasized that this event will be a catalyst for growth in the gaming industry. He stated, "This announcement marks an exciting moment for motorsport and esports fans worldwide and positions Abu Dhabi Gaming at the forefront of global discussions about simulation racing. As we continue to drive the emirate's vision of becoming a premier global destination for gaming and esports, events like the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 will act as key milestones in building an ecosystem that enhances talent development and fosters collaborations."

Gran Turismo, developed by Polyphony Digital Inc., a subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment, is a leading racing simulation series that recently surpassed 100 million sales, underscoring its popularity and impact.

For more details on the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 opening event and ticket sales, visit Ticketmaster. Stay updated on Abu Dhabi Gaming by following their social media channels on Instagram, YouTube, and Twitch.