The high-speed sailing showdown is getting a spectacular new home this November
Ready for some seriously fast action on the water?
SailGP is coming back to Abu Dhabi this November, and this time it’s bringing its high-speed Grand Final to a brand-new location.
Tickets are now on sale for the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix 2026 Season Grand Final, which will take place on 28 and 29 November at Emirates Palace Marina.
It will be the first time SailGP has used the iconic Emirates Palace as its Abu Dhabi backdrop, giving the season finale a pretty spectacular new setting.
And this isn’t just another weekend of racing. Abu Dhabi is hosting the championship-deciding Grand Final, so everything comes down to these final two days.
The world’s top national teams will battle it out in high-tech F50 catamarans, with the 2026 Rolex SailGP Champions set to be crowned in the capital.
The location is a major change, too. Instead of the previous Abu Dhabi setup, the Race Stadium will be positioned at Emirates Palace Marina, putting spectators right alongside the water for the racing.
The event is designed to be more than just watching boats fly past, with live entertainment, interactive experiences, food and drink and plenty happening between races.
Tickets start at AED265 for a single-day Waterfront Grandstand ticket, while weekend passes are AED425.
Fancy something a little more elevated? The new Premium Waterfront Grandstand costs AED500 for one day or AED799 for the full weekend, with enhanced views, fast-track entry and food and drink credit included.
Then there’s the VELA Beach Club, which takes the whole thing up a notch with a waterfront setting, shaded viewing, food, premium drinks and lounge-style seating. Prices start at AED1,776 for a single day or AED2,762 for the weekend.
For the serious VIP option, VELA Privé offers water’s-edge views, all-inclusive food and premium drinks, a private shaded lounge and dedicated service, starting at AED2,681 for a single day.
The action gets underway from 2pm on both days, with the Race Stadium opening from 12.30pm, although timings can change depending on weather and race conditions.
And if you’ve never watched SailGP before, this is a pretty good place to start. The F50 boats can hit speeds of more than 100km/h, making this less leisurely sailing trip and more Formula One-on-water territory.
So, if you fancy swapping the usual November plans for two days of flying boats, waterfront entertainment and some serious sporting drama, this one should definitely be on your radar.
28-29 November, Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi. For further information, visit sailgp.com
