Abu Dhabi is solidifying its status as a premier cultural and social hub in the Middle East, a reputation exemplified by the upcoming 2024 Formula 1 Grand Prix from 6 to 8 December at Yas Island.

The globally renowned event not only enhances the city’s profile as a leading tourism destination but also brings substantial economic benefits, drawing an influx of international visitors, particularly from Europe.

With accommodation rates expected to soar up by 170 per cent compared to the previous week, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2024 is set to attract global motorsport enthusiasts, boosting international arrivals and reinforcing the city’s global tourism standing. Notably, visitors from the UK, Italy, and Germany, collectively representing 15 per cent of total attendees, are anticipated to play a significant role in this surge.

“Data shows that over 15 per cent of visitors to Abu Dhabi during Grand Prix week come from the UK, Italy, and Germany, underscoring a strong and growing European interest in UAE destinations,” The Data Appeal Company – Almawave Group CEO and founder, Mirko Lalli, said. “For destinations like Abu Dhabi, which are rapidly evolving on the global stage, having detailed insights into major events in transformative. It allows the DMO not only to design events that influence tourists’ travel decisions but also to strategically extend the peak season.

“It allows the DMO not only to design events that influence tourists’ travel decisions but also to strategically extend the peak season. Moreover, a deep understanding of traveler behavior and preferences empowers the destination to elevate the visitor experience and sharpen future marketing strategies. In today’s competitive tourism landscape, data-driven insights are no longer optional—they’re fundamental to staying ahead.”

The Data Appeal Company – Almawave Group findings.

Attendance, accommodation rates, and spending forecast

Projected attendance for the event aligns with last year’s numbers, estimated at 170,000 people. According to Data Appeal and its data partner PredictHQ, the total predicted spending for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix exceeds USD $179 million (around AUD 275 million), with accommodation accounting for 85 per cent of the total predicted event spend, restaurants making up 14 per cent, and transportation comprising 1 per cent. This data highlights the dominance of accommodation expenses, revealing significant demand for lodging during the event, while dining and transport account for smaller portions of the expenditure.

Accommodation prices in Abu Dhabi are expected to be 85 per cent higher during the race week compared to 2023 and 58 per cent higher than the previous week. The average rate during the event is forecasted at AED 1,798 (around AUD 750).

An analysis of hotel rates across major online travel agencies reveals that the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix surpasses other significant events, including ADIPEC (Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference) and IDEX (International Defence Exhibition & Conference), in driving accommodation price increases and boosting tourist numbers.

Accommodation rates for the Grand Prix peak at AED 2,646.2 (around AUD 1,108), reflecting a rise of up to 170 per cent compared to the previous week. This surge notably exceeds the price increases seen during ADIPEC (+3 per cent) and IDEX (+15 per cent), with the Grand Prix having a more sustained impact on hotel rates.

European fans boost tourism amid stable flight volumes

The top five countries for incoming flights during the Grand Prix week include a decline in visitors from India, the US, and Russia, but a strong increase from the UK (+28 per cent compared to the prior week) and Italy, which has replaced Qatar in the rankings.

These statistics reflect the consistent interest from European markets, with the UK, Italy, and Germany forming the top three, accounting for 15 per cent of visitors (2023 data). Enthusiasts of teams like Ferrari, Williams, and McLaren are especially prominent.

The Data Appeal Company – Almawave Group findings.

Accommodation Insights: Luxury vs. Visitor satisfaction

While premium areas like Saadiyat Island (home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi), Yas Island, and Al Maryah Island showcase the highest average accommodation rates, they do not necessarily align with top visitor sentiment scores.

Areas such as New Shahama, Madinat Al Riyad, Al Falah, and Al Raha Beach score highest in visitor satisfaction (97 to 99/100), highlighting a preference for less congested and more spacious options.

Top-rated attractions, dining, and hotels during the 2023 Grand Prix

During the 2023 Grand Prix, Abu Dhabi’s top attractions received excellent visitor feedback. The Louvre Abu Dhabi stood out with a sentiment score of 93/100, showcasing its cultural significance and appeal. Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi followed closely with a 92/100 sentiment, drawing families and entertainment enthusiasts. Ferrari World Yas Island, known for its thrilling rides and automotive heritage, maintained a strong sentiment score of 90/100, highlighting its popularity among motorsport fans.

Dining options during the Grand Prix showcased a preference for local flavors, fresh seafood, and grilled meats. The highly acclaimed Gandofly Seafood Restaurant achieved the top sentiment score of 99.1/100, praised for its menu and quality. Nasr Restaurant and Grill Muroor also impressed with a score of 99/100, while Phosphorus Kadoura Seafood Restaurant secured a notable 98/100, underlining its reputation for delicious and well-prepared dishes.

Hotels in Abu Dhabi during the event offered a mix of luxury and value, catering to diverse guest preferences. Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island led the list with a sentiment score of 95/100, favored for its luxury and proximity to major attractions. Al Raha Beach Hotel also drew high praise with a 90/100 sentiment, offering premium services near key sites. For those seeking quality at more moderate prices, Novotel Abu Dhabi Al Bustan was a popular choice, earning an 89/100 sentiment score.