All roads lead to Abu Dhabi for the final race that settles the World Driver’s Champion 2025. It’s the battle among three close contenders – McLaren drivers Lando Norris (408 points), Oscar Piastri (392 points) and Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen (396 points). Like every year, this weekend will be the biggest event in motorsport, and the one weekend that turns Yas Island into the loudest, flashiest, most adrenaline-filled corner of the UAE! Whether you’re here for the speed, the drivers (cause why not?!), the concerts or vibes, this guide has everything you need to navigate race weekend like a pro.
Also read: Upgrade Your Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Experience With ‘The House’ At Yas Marina
After-Race Concert Line Up
1. Benson Boone (On 4th December)
Opening Yasalam on 4th December, the rising American pop star will open the four-day after-race concert on Thursday at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Over the past year, Boone has shot to fame with his hit songs ‘Beautiful Things’ and gained a total of more than three billion streams on Spotify. Get ready to groove along hit tracks at the first after-party concert of the weekend.
2. Post Malone & Elyanna (On 5th December)
Post practice session on 5th December, Post Malone and Elyanna are set to light up night two of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix concerts. Expect hits from Malone’s pop-rap anthems like ‘Sunflower’ and ‘Circles’. Joining him is Palestinian singer Elyanna, who will once again bring her unique blend of Arabic pop and contemporary R&B to the Etihad Park stage.
3. Metallica (On 6th December)
The band that needs no introduction! On 6th December, get ready for an electrifying show as heavy metal giants Metallica headline after the qualifying round at the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable show, as the band makes their first performance in Abu Dhabi since 2013.
4. Katy Perry (On 7th December)
It’s time to celebrate the end of a fierce season and the crowning of a World Driver’s Champion. On 7th December, American singer Katy Perry is set to headline the last race day concert, bringing her signature energy to the capital once again. Following last year’s release of her album, ‘143,’ she’ll take the stage with her band to deliver an energising set packed with fan favourite hits!
Here’s Everything To Know About Attending The After-Race Concerts
All concerts will be held at Etihad Park, located just outside the Yas Marina Circuit. To attend any of the performances, visitors must have tickets for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025. This year, there will be no wristbands. Access to the concerts is solely through the barcode on the e-tickets via the app. It’s important to note that ticket holders must show their tickets and any upgrades using the Abu Dhabi GP app to gain entry. Printouts and screenshots will not be accepted for access.
How To Enter
- General Admission: Ticket holders can enter through Gates 3, 4, and 5. Bear in mind that there will be security checks, so pack light! Don’t forget that general admission tickets operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Golden Circle: Upgraded tickets must go through Gates 2, 4, or 5. Entry is guaranteed, and visitors will have priority access. However, arriving early is still important to grab a good spot near the stage.
Once you’re inside, you’re now free to grab food and drinks from the kiosks and trucks around the venue. And don’t forget to carry an empty water bottle to fill up at the water stations inside the park!
Planning To Watch The Race? Here’s The Schedule
It’s been a fiercely competitive year. Some might say it’s also been quite unpredictable. From changes to team principals and drivers, to abysmal strategies by some teams (you know who I’m talking about…). It comes as no surprise that the next few days will be heavy with anticipation. If you’re planning to catch the adrenaline-fuelled on-track action, here are the race timings to help you prepare.
Friday, December 5
- Practice 1: 1:30 PM-2:30 PM
- Practice 2: 5 PM-6 PM
Saturday, December 6
- Practice 3: 2:30 PM-3:30 PM
- Qualifying: 6 PM-7 PM
Sunday, December 7
- It’s race day! Race begins at 5 PM
Don’t forget to check your Abu Dhabi GP app for a detailed list of on-track, off-track schedules and latest updates!
Whether you’re a motorsport fan or just heading down for the highly anticipated concerts, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be one of the UAE’s most exciting weekends.
For more information and all the latest updates, visit the Abu Dhabi GP website.
