Exciting Times Ahead as Abu Dhabi Hosts 2026 Gran Turismo World Series Opener

Abu Dhabi to Host the 2026 Gran Turismo World Series Opener

For the first time in the Middle East, the exciting Gran Turismo World Series will kick off its 2026 edition in Abu Dhabi, specifically at the Space42 Arena, on March 28, 2026. This landmark event marks a significant milestone not only for Abu Dhabi but also for the entire MENA region.

The announcement was made at the Gran Turismo World Series 2025 World Finals held at the Fukuoka International Congress Centre in Japan, where dignitaries including H.E. Saeed Al Fazari, the Executive Director of Strategic Affairs at the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), made the official declaration. The inclusion of Abu Dhabi in the prestigious racing series symbolizes its growing recognition as a global esports hub.

H.E. Al Fazari expressed excitement about the event, stating that hosting the Gran Turismo World Series opener reflects Abu Dhabi's ambitions as a limitless destination. He highlighted the significance of the event as a celebration of the emirate's capabilities in organizing elite competitions, effectively shining a spotlight on its esports and motorsport sectors.

The Gran Turismo World Series is widely respected as an annual competition to identify the best Gran Turismo players across the globe. It consists of online qualifiers, open to all players, as well as live events featuring top racers traveling to iconic locations worldwide to compete for the championship title.

Kazunori Yamauchi, the producer of the Gran Turismo series, also shared his enthusiasm regarding this development. He noted the historic nature of Abu Dhabi hosting the opener, which highlights the region's expanding presence in global motorsport and esports. The Yas Marina Circuit, renowned for its unique racing experience, has been incorporated into Gran Turismo 7, further enhancing its connection with players and motorsport fans internationally.

Marcos Muller-Habig, Sector Enablement Director at Abu Dhabi Gaming, remarked on how the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 represents a vital opportunity for fans and industry stakeholders alike. He emphasized that this milestone will serve as a catalyst for the growth of Abu Dhabi’s gaming ecosystem, ultimately enhancing its role as a premier destination for innovation, entertainment, and competitive racing.

The event promises to draw massive attention, engaging thousands of esports aficionados and motorsport fans. With the burgeoning gaming infrastructure in Abu Dhabi, there is a collective vision to turn the emirate into a leading global gaming hub, opening doors for upcoming talents and innovations.

As anticipation builds toward the Grand Prix of gaming, many are eager to see how Abu Dhabi will capitalize on this opportunity to showcase its unique culture intertwined with competitive excellence in the esports realm. For more information regarding the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 opener and ticket bookings, interested audiences are encouraged to visit Ticketmaster. Stay updated with the latest developments on Abu Dhabi Gaming by following them on Instagram, YouTube, and Twitch.

In summary, the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 opener in Abu Dhabi marks a new chapter for esports in the Middle East, bringing together top-tier competitors while celebrating the region's vibrant gaming and motorsport culture.