Feel the thrill of Formula 1, then dive into nights filled with world-class music. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix isn’t just about racing—it’s one of the most electrifying festivals of the year, where championship drama meets unforgettable entertainment.
When the final lap is done and the engines cool, the spotlight shifts to Etihad Park for the legendary Yasalam After-Race Concerts. In 2025, the lineup promises a show-stopping mix of global superstars, timeless icons, and rising stars, all performing under the Arabian night sky.
Whether you’re traveling for the race or the rhythm, here’s your ultimate guide to the concerts lighting up Yas Island.
The Lineup: Who’s Taking the Stage?
This year’s concerts span four unforgettable nights, each one delivering a unique sonic experience. Every evening after the races, fans will be treated to epic performances from some of the biggest names in music.
Thursday, December 4 – Benson Boone
Opening the weekend is Benson Boone, one of the freshest voices on the global pop scene. Known for his soulful tone and emotional songwriting, Benson’s performance promises a moody, heartfelt start to the festival atmosphere.
Expect to hear tracks like “Beautiful Things” and “Ghost Town” as he eases the crowd into a weekend full of momentum.
Friday, December 5 – Post Malone and Elyanna
Friday’s double bill will turn the heat all the way up. Post Malone returns with his trademark blend of hip-hop, rock, and pop. With global smashes like “Circles,” “Sunflower,” and “Congratulations,” he’s a livewire performer who always brings the unexpected.
Joining him is Elyanna, a rising star fusing Arabic and Latin pop with soulful elegance. Her unique sound and stage presence are sure to make Friday night one of the most diverse and dynamic shows of the weekend.
This combination guarantees energy, culture, and charisma like few shows can offer.
Saturday, December 6 – Metallica
Saturday night will thunder with the arrival of rock royalty. Metallica, one of the most iconic bands in music history, is set to deliver a powerhouse performance. With a career spanning four decades, their legendary tracks like “Enter Sandman,” “Master of Puppets,” and “Nothing Else Matters” will hit with monumental force.
This is more than a concert—it’s a live rock experience backed by pyrotechnics, fierce guitar solos, and an audience that knows every lyric by heart. If you’re craving intensity and raw sound, this is your night.
Sunday, December 7 – Katy Perry
Closing the concert series in dazzling style is pop phenomenon Katy Perry. Known for her colorful, theatrical shows and infectious pop anthems, she’s set to deliver a high-energy finale.
From “Firework” and “Teenage Dream” to “Roar” and “Dark Horse,” Katy’s set will be an all-out celebration. Expect extravagant visuals, big production, and an electric atmosphere to wrap up the Grand Prix weekend.
It’s the perfect end to an epic four-day festival of racing and rhythm.
How to Access the Concerts
Here’s the best part: access to these superstar concerts is included with your Abu Dhabi Grand Prix race ticket. That means if you’ve got a valid race-day ticket, you can attend the concert that evening—no extra cost.
If you’re attending the race on Saturday, you get to see Metallica. Got a Sunday ticket? That gets you into the Katy Perry show. And if you have a four-day pass, you’re covered for all four concerts.
To attend, ticket holders must collect a wristband at the venue. These are handed out on a first-come, first-served basis. Wristband collection can get busy, so arriving early is your best bet to secure a spot—especially on the nights with major headliners.
Want the VIP Experience?
If you want to level up your concert experience, consider purchasing a Golden Circle upgrade. This gives you front-of-stage access, faster entry lines, and exclusive food and beverage service.
Golden Circle tickets sell fast, but they’re worth every dirham if you want an up-close view without the crowds. It’s perfect for serious music fans and those who want to turn the night into something extra special.
Location: Etihad Park, Yas Island
The Yasalam After-Race Concerts take place at Etihad Park, the Middle East’s largest outdoor concert venue. Located on Yas Island just steps from Yas Marina Circuit, the park can host more than 25,000 fans and is designed for massive, high-quality productions.
With advanced sound systems, enormous staging, and immersive lighting, every performance feels like a headline show. The open-air setting, combined with the energy of international fans, creates an atmosphere that’s both epic and intimate.
It’s not just a concert—it’s an event.
Planning Your Trip
If you’re flying into Abu Dhabi for race weekend, Yas Island is where you want to be. With luxury hotels, sandy beaches, world-class dining, and theme parks like Ferrari World and Warner Bros World, the island becomes a self-contained party zone.
Hotels around the island tend to sell out months in advance, so book early. Many accommodations offer special F1 weekend packages that include transport to and from the circuit and concert venue.
Transport on Yas Island is well-organized, with shuttle services, taxis, and even water taxis available to help fans move between attractions and venues.
Stay close, stay flexible, and allow time to explore between shows and races.
Why These Concerts Are Special
What makes the Yasalam After-Race Concerts stand out isn’t just the lineup—it’s the fusion of worlds. This is where the intensity of Formula 1 collides with the global language of music. It’s about adrenaline from the racetrack carrying over into the electric night air, where tens of thousands of people come together to celebrate in style.
Few events manage to merge high-octane sport with global entertainment so effortlessly. The concerts are more than just add-ons—they’re a defining part of the Grand Prix experience.
For many fans, they’re just as anticipated as the main race itself.
Insider Tips for a Perfect Night
- Arrive early to collect your wristband and claim your viewing spot
- Wear light, comfortable clothing but bring a layer—nights can get cool
- Stay hydrated, especially if you’re dancing for hours
- Use the event app to check for schedule updates, set times, or surprise guests
- Bring a portable charger to keep your phone alive for photos, videos, and socials
- If attending multiple nights, plan meals and rest time—it’s a long, thrilling weekend
Your Grand Prix Soundtrack Awaits
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend is about more than speed. It’s about celebration, community, and soundtracks that stay with you long after the engines stop. Whether you’re cheering from the stands or dancing front-row under the stars, the concerts complete the experience.
Get your ticket, grab your wristband, and join the crowd. Because when the sun goes down on Yas Island, the real show begins—and you won’t want to miss a second of it.
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