As 'F1: The Movie' launched worldwide last month, BroadcastPro ME went behind the scenes with Ali Al Beshr, GM of Yas Marina Circuit at Ethara, to explore how Abu Dhabi’s iconic racetrack became a key player in this groundbreaking film production.
In an unprecedented cinematic feat, Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi transformed from a world-class racetrack into a bustling Hollywood film set during the 2024 Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend. Against the backdrop of the high-stakes race, a story unfolded not just on screen but behind the scenes, where precision and careful coordination brought the high-octane drama of F1: The Movie to life.
Filming on location during a live Grand Prix weekend demanded months of planning and flawless execution to balance the rigours of one of the world’s most complex sporting events with the creative demands of a major Hollywood production. The emirate’s Creative Media Authority (CMA) and Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) played critical roles, providing regulatory support and logistics to facilitate a seamless partnership between Yas Marina Circuit, Formula 1 Management and the film’s international production team, led by director Joseph Kosinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer.
The film, which launched globally last month, follows a fictional adrenaline-charged tale of redemption and rivalry on the Formula 1 circuit. Yas Marina Circuit, Zayed International Airport and twofour54 Studios formed a dramatic backdrop for key scenes shot across three separate filming periods totalling 29 days. The production involved over 280 local crew members and 15 interns, highlighting Abu Dhabi’s growing creative ecosystem and commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
“The F1 movie follows the actual Formula 1 race calendar. Since the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the final race of the season, it was naturally a part of the script and the focal point of the story,” says Al Beshr.
“The initial conversations started with the F1 and FIA teams. In Abu Dhabi, the key stakeholders were CMA and ADFC. They facilitated the filming at Yas Marina Circuit and across other locations. Working closely with these organisations, and the film director and the crew, we helped authentically depict the high-speed drama of the final race and showcase Abu Dhabi’s capabilities.”
Filming during a live Grand Prix required intense coordination. “It was a huge effort involving all parties at Yas Marina Circuit, F1 and FIA. We had to coordinate access to different parts of the venue, including minute-by-minute schedules on how to use the space safely alongside the major event we were hosting. Pulling it all off required months of planning and efficient coordination during execution.”
Scheduling was the biggest challenge. “It required very detailed planning – deciding where film crews could be stationed, which areas they’d access and how all of that aligned with race operations.”
The result was a flawlessly executed Grand Prix weekend for fans alongside a cinematic achievement for Abu Dhabi.
“The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is a massive event on its own, and to introduce the Hollywood production on top of this was an eye-opener for what we’re capable of delivering. The right skillsets within our team, close collaboration with all parties and support from stakeholders helped us succeed.”
“While motorsport racing remains our core, projects like this highlight Yas Marina Circuit’s versatility as a multi-use platform for entertainment and content production” – Ali Al Beshr, GM of Yas Marina Circuit at Ethara.
Preparations began nearly a year in advance, with regular conversations with all the stakeholders. “We had weekly meetings, which became more frequent as the Grand Prix approached and filming plans grew complex. It’s a testament to what public and private sectors can achieve together. The F1 movie not only highlights our stunning locations but also our operational readiness, skilled workforce and the deep collaboration required to host world-class live events alongside major film productions.”
Beyond the spectacle, the project brought immense pride to local crews and talent. “It was incredibly meaningful for everyone involved to see the national anthem featured in the film,” Al Beshr reflects. “Watching the movie allowed us to pause and appreciate the scale of what we’ve built here over the years. Yas Marina Circuit and Yas Island were shown in a powerful, cinematic way that moved many of us.”
Looking ahead, he sees the film as a sign of things to come. “While motorsport racing remains our core, projects like this highlight Yas Marina’s versatility as a multi-use platform for entertainment and content production. We have a dedicated venue team ready to accommodate global sporting events, concerts and large-scale Hollywood shoots.”
Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation has already attracted other major productions including Now You See Me: Now You Don’t, further cementing its status as a creative powerhouse.
Ultimately, the successful coexistence of live global events and complex film productions offers a valuable lesson, says Al Beshr: “With the right level of pre-planning, trust and communication, this kind of synergy is not only possible but can thrive. It sets a powerful precedent for the future of international productions in the region.”
