As the engines roar to life and the checkered flag waves, few sporting events capture the world’s imagination quite like Formula 1, and if you’re in the UAE, you’re in luck, as this region offers a thrilling array of venues where you can catch all the high-octane action live, feeling every hairpin turn and strategic pit stop as if you were trackside. From dedicated sports bars to expansive cinema screens and grand fan zones, the Emirates truly embrace the spirit of F1.
Premier Spots in Dubai for F1 Screenings
Dubai, with its penchant for grand experiences, offers numerous fantastic locations to immerse yourself in the world of Formula 1 live screenings, catering to every type of fan, from casual viewers to die-hard enthusiasts.
For a sleek and stylish race day experience, the Mercedes-Benz Brand Center in Dubai Design District is a standout choice. Their AMG Kaffeehaus transforms during race weekends, providing a sophisticated setting to watch the live F1 action on state-of-the-art screens. This venue offers a unique blend of showroom sophistication and racing excitement, allowing car aficionados to admire current Mercedes-AMG models up close while cheering on their favorite drivers. It’s a premium experience for those who appreciate automotive excellence alongside the thrill of the race.
If you’re looking for a venue truly dedicated to motorsports, Flat 12 Cafe is a haven for petrolheads. This café is known for its deep love of all things automotive and often streams F1 races live, creating an electric atmosphere for fans. It’s a place where you can connect with fellow enthusiasts, share insights, and enjoy delicious menu offerings while the race unfolds. Similarly, The Cars Café at the Dubai Autodrome provides a unique setting that puts you as close as possible to the race action. Surrounded by cars and like-minded enthusiasts, it’s an ideal spot to feel the buzz of F1 even when you’re not at the circuit.
For a more traditional sports bar vibe, McGettigan’s locations across Dubai, such as McGettigan’s JBR or The Dubliner’s at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, are always reliable choices. These popular Irish pubs are known for their lively atmosphere, large screens, and excellent food and beverage options. They’re perfect for catching the race with a group of friends, enjoying hearty comfort food, and soaking in the communal excitement of race day. These venues often have special deals during major sporting events, so it’s worth checking their offerings.
Many high-end hotels also feature dedicated sports lounges that ensure a premium viewing experience. Places like Wavebreaker Beach Bar & Grill at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah offer a relaxed beachfront setting with screens, while others in areas like DIFC might have more upscale options. Always check with the specific venue for their race-day schedules and any special promotions they might have during the F1 season. Dubai’s dynamic environment ensures that finding a great spot to watch F1 is never a problem.
Abu Dhabi’s Immersive F1 Viewing Spots
Abu Dhabi, being the home of the season-ending Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, naturally offers some of the most exciting and immersive places to watch F1 live screenings, especially around the race weekend.
Undoubtedly, the ultimate place to be is the Yas Marina Circuit itself, even if you don’t have tickets for the main grandstands. During the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend (scheduled for December 4-7, 2025), the circuit transforms into a massive F1 Fan Zone. This area, often resembling a mini-festival, is packed with action. You’ll find huge screens showing the live race, along with interactive experiences like racing simulators, exclusive car displays, and merchandise stalls. Drivers and sporting personalities often make appearances on the main stage, adding to the excitement. The Fan Zone offers an incredible atmosphere, allowing you to feel the pulse of the Grand Prix even without a grandstand seat. Access to parts of the Fan Zone is often included with various ticket packages, or sometimes available as a separate entry during the lead-up to the main race.
Beyond the circuit, many sports bars across Abu Dhabi are prime locations for catching the F1 action. Stars N Bars Abu Dhabi, located at Yas Marina Circuit, is a classic American sports bar concept born in Monte Carlo. It’s a global haven for sports enthusiasts, boasting 76 HDTVs, sports memorabilia, and a vibrant atmosphere. With its prime location, it’s a fantastic spot to feel close to the action even if you’re not inside the circuit grandstands. They often have special events and promotions during F1 weekends.
Other popular sports bars in Abu Dhabi known for their lively F1 screenings include Blu Sky Lounge & Grill at Southern Sun Abu Dhabi, Cooper’s Bar & Restaurant at Park Rotana Abu Dhabi, and McGettigan’s at Al Raha Beach Hotel & Resort. These venues are reliable choices for a good atmosphere, plenty of screens, and a selection of food and beverages. They attract a passionate crowd of motorsport fans, creating a truly engaging viewing experience. PJ O’Reilly’s at Le Méridien Abu Dhabi and The Sportsman’s Arms at Zayed Sports City are also well-regarded options that consistently screen major sporting events, including F1.
During the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, many hotels and restaurants on Yas Island and across the city also host special viewing parties and events. For instance, the Yasalam After-Race Concerts, which are included with your Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticket, often have large screens showing the race alongside musical performances. Keep an eye on announcements from Abu Dhabi Grand Prix organizers and local event guides for the most up-to-date information on viewing parties and fan activities.
Other Emirates and Cinema Screenings
While Dubai and Abu Dhabi lead the charge, other Emirates and even cinemas offer opportunities to catch Formula 1 live screenings, extending the thrill of the race to a wider audience across the UAE.
For those in other Emirates like Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, or Fujairah, dedicated sports bars might be less numerous than in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. However, many larger hotel chains often have their own sports lounges or restaurants with big screens that will show major sporting events, including Formula 1 races. It’s always a good idea to check with the local hotels in these Emirates directly, especially those with international branding, as they are most likely to cater to a diverse audience looking for live sports. Additionally, some community centers or larger cafés might also put on screenings for major events.
A unique and increasingly popular way to watch Formula 1 live screenings in the UAE is at the cinema. Both VOX Cinemas and Reel Cinemas have embraced the F1 craze, offering an immersive viewing experience on the big screen with high-quality audio and video. For 2025, you can catch specific Grand Prix races live at these cinemas. For example, VOX Cinemas UAE is showing the Formula 1: Bahrain Grand Prix 2025 live, while Reel Cinemas UAE is set to screen the Formula 1: Grand Prix 2025 – Saudi Arabia and Formula 1: Grand Prix 2025 – Monaco races. This provides an unparalleled viewing experience, making you feel as though you’re right there at the track, with every engine roar and tire screech amplified. It’s a fantastic option for families or groups who want a comfortable and exciting way to watch the races.
The F1 season spans many months, with races held globally. To stay updated on where to watch, always check:
- Official cinema websites: https://www.google.com/search?q=uae.voxcinemas.com and reelcinemas.com for specific race screening schedules.
- Sports bar social media pages: Many bars announce their F1 screening plans closer to each race weekend.
- Local event listings and online guides: Websites like Time Out Dubai, Time Out Abu Dhabi, or What’s On often publish comprehensive guides for major sporting events.
For the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025 (December 4-7), be prepared for city-wide celebrations. Beyond the track, many fan zones, restaurants, and hotels will host viewing parties and events. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix website is your go-to for all official information regarding the race weekend, including any public viewing areas or events.
The www.few.ae team knows that whether you prefer the electric atmosphere of a fan zone, the comfort of a cinema, or the camaraderie of a sports bar, the UAE offers an array of fantastic options to experience the thrill of Formula 1 live screenings. Which Grand Prix are you most excited to watch this season?
then "Add to Home Screen"