Tickets selling fast for Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

The organisers of the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix expect to sell out well in advance of the race in November. Christopher Pike / The National

ABU DHABI // Tickets for the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November are selling out fast, organisers said on Sunday.

Officials for the event at Yas Marina Circuit say they have seen an unprecedented demand from fans around the world as well as corporate customers and expect to be sold out well in advance of race weekend.

So far 75 per cent of the tickets have been sold to or reserved by companies, tour operators and agents.

“We’ve seen stronger demand than ever before across all sales platforms and ticket types,” said Al Tareq Al Ameri, chief executive of Yas Marina Circuit.

“People know that the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend is one of the most prestigious and exhilarating events on the sporting calendar, combining all the high-octane thrills of top-level motor racing with some of the best entertainment around.”

The number of tickets available this year has increased from 55,000 to 60,000.

The Main and West grandstands are almost at capacity. Seats in the Marina grandstand are also filling up rapidly, Mr Al Ameri said.

The additional tickets are in the Abu Dhabi Hill area, and the Paddock Club.

“The event’s reputation has grown along with that of Yas Marina Circuit as the perfect venue, so in that respect the sales figures are not surprising,” he said.

“After five successful previous events, people know it is going to be good – so they already know they want to be a part of it this year.”

More digital marketing and new online ticket-sales systems have led to increased internet sales.

People can buy tickets via their smartphones or Facebook this year.

Sales at Etihad Airways shops and international markets have been brisk, along with visitor packages for Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld.

Corporate bookings are also stronger than in previous years, Mr Al Ameri said.

“The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend is well known as an event that offers great business and networking opportunities,” he said. “Every year we are honoured to welcome guests from some of the biggest, most respected global companies and brands.”

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the final stop on this year’s F1 tour and, with twice as many points on offer for drivers, the championship is likely to be decided at Yas Marina Circuit.

Race weekend is November 20- 23.

For more details visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com/en/formula-1/2014-grand-prix