In a cinematic first for the region, Yas Marina Circuit was transformed into a one-of-a-kind cinema to host the regional premiere of a major international film production. The unprecedented event showcased the emirate’s capabilities to deliver high-profile film moments at iconic locations, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s as a global hub for both filmmaking and red-carpet premieres.

Organised by Creative Media Authority in partnership with Ethara, operator of Yas Marina Circuit, the landmark event welcomed more than 1,000 guests for a special nighttime screening of the movie in a custom-built cinema, constructed on Turn 5 of the famous circuit. The cinema’s footprint was the size of two football fields, seated 700, featured 135 speakers and built in a record two weeks to provide guests the perfect setting to view the box-ofÏce smash which features key on-screen scenes of the Yas Marina Circuit, Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and Abu Dhabi for more than 35 minutes.

The featured film, shot extensively in Abu Dhabi over 29 days across three separate production periods, includes more than 35 minutes of high-octane scenes filmed in and around Yas Marina Circuit, during a major motorsport weekend, and throughout the city’s skyline and landmarks. The production was supported by the Creative Media Authority (CMA) and Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) under the ADFC rebate programme. In addition to financial incentives, the production received full-spectrum support across permits, logistics, and inter-agency coordination, showcasing Abu Dhabi’s end-to-end production ecosystem.

Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General, Creative Media Authority, added: “This was a proud moment not just for our creative sector, but for everyone who contributed to making Abu Dhabi a truly premier destination for major international productions. To host a regional premiere on a working racetrack featuring scenes filmed right here in the city, is a bold testament to the infrastructure, ambition and collaborative spirit that define our ecosystem.”

Ethara, which operates Yas Marina Circuit and organises the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, welcomed the event as another proud achievement for the iconic track which has gained global recognition for its innovation, entertainment and culture since being opened in 2009.

Saif Rashid Al Noaimi, CEO of Ethara, said: “To see Yas Marina Circuit not only featured in a major Hollywood production, but also selected as the site of its regional premiere, is a powerful moment for Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, and for all our partners involved in the Grand Prix each year. It reflects how the event, and the city, have evolved into global cultural landmarks that transcend sport.”

Yas Marina Circuit remains one of the world’s most advanced motorsport venues, hosting year-round racing, community programmes and corporate events. It will again take centre stage when the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix returns from 5 to 8 December, serving as the season finale for the 14th time.