Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli is set to headline the debut edition of Yasalam Classics, a new concert series introduced during the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 race week. The performance will take place on 2 December 2026 at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, with Bocelli joined by the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra.
Expanding the Grand Prix Entertainment Programme
Yasalam Classics is produced by Ethara in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral. The series aims to broaden the entertainment offerings of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, complementing the existing After-Race Concerts and Official After-Parties. This year's lineup already includes Lewis Capaldi, Zara Larsson, and Imagine Dragons, with additional acts to be announced.
The Bocelli concert coincides with the 30th anniversary of his album Romanza, released in 1997, which remains the best-selling Italian-language album globally and has achieved platinum and diamond certifications in over 20 countries. The performance is part of Bocelli's world tour celebrating this milestone.
"Yasalam Classics is a significant addition to the star-studded Abu Dhabi Grand Prix entertainment programme, and Andrea Bocelli is the perfect artist to launch it," said David Powell, Chief Portfolio and Strategy Officer at Ethara.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, known for its unique twilight format, continues to blend elite motorsport with music and culture. The event has become a key driver for tourism in the emirate, attracting international visitors and showcasing Yas Island's integrated entertainment ecosystem, which includes hotels, theme parks, and the Etihad Arena.
For travel professionals, the expansion of the Grand Prix's entertainment programme underscores Abu Dhabi's strategy to position itself as a year-round destination for luxury and experiential travel. The addition of classical music to the lineup broadens the event's appeal to high-net-worth travelers and cultural tourists. This aligns with broader efforts by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi to deepen ties with key source markets, as seen in the Abu Dhabi Deepens India Ties with High-Level Trade Mission and Cultural Showcase.
Etihad Airways, the title sponsor of the Grand Prix, continues to leverage the event to enhance its brand visibility and drive premium cabin demand on routes to Abu Dhabi. The airline's recent codeshare with TAROM, linking Abu Dhabi to six Romanian cities and Eastern Europe, further expands connectivity for Grand Prix attendees. See Etihad and TAROM Codeshare Links Abu Dhabi to Six Romanian Cities and Eastern Europe for details.
Hospitality partners are also capitalizing on the event. The Rosewood Abu Dhabi, for instance, has partnered with Les Roches to develop luxury hospitality talent in the UAE, ensuring high service standards for Grand Prix guests. Read more in Rosewood Abu Dhabi and Les Roches Partner to Develop Luxury Hospitality Talent in UAE.
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticket holders will have exclusive access to presale tickets for Yasalam Classics for 24 hours before they go on general sale on 17 June at 1pm. The concert series is expected to become a recurring feature, further cementing the Grand Prix as a multi-day entertainment destination.
