ABU DHABI, UAE — December 20, 2025 — Leads & Copy — Abu Dhabi is set to host the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 opening event, marking the first time the competition will be held in the Middle East. The event is scheduled for March 28, 2026, at the Space42 Arena.
The announcement was made during the Gran Turismo World Series 2025 World Finals in Fukuoka, Japan. H.E. Saeed Al Fazari, Executive Director of Strategic Affairs at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), shared the news during the event.
The landmark event will bring together top Gran Turismo drivers to compete in an elite live championship. It aims to engage fans and highlight Abu Dhabi’s esports capabilities.
The Gran Turismo World Series 2026 opening event is organised by Polyphony Digital Inc, a subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment, and Abu Dhabi Gaming, an initiative led by DCT Abu Dhabi.
H.E. Al Fazari stated that hosting the Gran Turismo World Series opener is a proud moment for Abu Dhabi and the wider MENA region, reflecting the ambition to be a destination where possibilities are limitless. Al Fazari added that the event marks a significant milestone for the emirate’s esports and motorsport sectors.
The Gran Turismo World Series is an annual competition to determine the world’s best Gran Turismo player. It includes online qualifiers and live World Series events.
Kazunori Yamauchi, Gran Turismo series producer, expressed excitement about Abu Dhabi hosting the 2026 Gran Turismo World Series opener. Yamauchi also noted that Yas Marina Circuit is now available in Gran Turismo 7.
Marcos Muller‑Habig, Sector Enablement Director at Abu Dhabi Gaming, said that the announcement positions Abu Dhabi Gaming at the forefront of the global sim racing conversation.
Gran Turismo, developed by Polyphony Digital Inc., has surpassed 100 million sales.
For more information about Gran Turismo World Series 2026 Opener in Abu Dhabi and tickets, please visit www.ticketmaster.ae/event/1588346815.
For more information about Abu Dhabi Gaming, follow Abu Dhabi Gaming on Instagram, YouTube and Twitch.
Contact:
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Source: Abu Dhabi Gaming
