- The iconic Yas Marina Circuit included in Gran Turismo 7, for PlayStation 4 and 5, offering global players the chance to explore and race the emirate's flagship track
- Announcement made during the Gran Turismo World Series 2025 World Finals in Fukuoka, Japan
ABU DHABI, UAE, Dec. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- For the first time in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi will host the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 opening event, scheduled for 28th of March 2026 at the Space42 Arena. The landmark event will bring together the world's top Gran Turismo drivers to compete in an elite live championship, engaging fans in the emirate and highlighting Abu Dhabi's esports capabilities to millions worldwide.
The announcement was made during the Gran Turismo World Series 2025 World Finals at the Fukuoka International Congress Centre in Japan, where H.E. Saeed Al Fazari, Executive Director of Strategic Affairs at the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), took the stage to share the news.
The Gran Turismo World Series 2026 opening event is organised by Polyphony Digital Inc, a subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment, the developer and publisher of the Gran Turismo series, and Abu Dhabi Gaming, an initiative led by DCT Abu Dhabi that coordinates efforts to transform the emirate into a global gaming hub.
H.E. Al Fazari said: "Hosting the Gran Turismo World Series opener is a proud moment for Abu Dhabi and the wider MENA region, reflecting our ambition to be a destination where possibilities are limitless. It marks a significant milestone for our esports and motorsport sectors, bringing elite global competition to the emirate and showcasing Abu Dhabi's proven capability to deliver world-leading esports and motorsport experiences. Abu Dhabi continues to offer a secure, future-ready environment for businesses, investors and talent, supporting our vision to become a global hub for innovation, entertainment, gaming and motorsport."
The Gran Turismo World Series is an annual competition to determine the world's best Gran Turismo player, comprising online qualifiers open to all players and live World Series events in which top racers travel to iconic destinations worldwide to compete.
Kazunori Yamauchi, Gran Turismo series producer., said: "We are thrilled to see Abu Dhabi host the 2026 Gran Turismo World Series opener in March 2026, marking the first time the event will be held in the Middle East. This is a historic milestone for our championship and a testament to the region's growing presence in global motorsport and esports. Additionally, we are delighted that Yas Marina Circuit, one of the world's most distinctive motorsport venues, is now available in Gran Turismo 7. Our aim has always been to connect players with the thrill and heritage of racing, and Yas Marina offers a unique experience that will resonate with motorsport fans and the gaming community worldwide."
The Yas Marina Circuit's inclusion in Gran Turismo 7 further extends Abu Dhabi's motorsport legacy into the digital arena, creating new opportunities for global audiences to connect with the emirate's culture of competitive excellence.
"This announcement marks an exciting moment for motorsports and esports fans in this region and the world, and positions Abu Dhabi Gaming at the forefront of the global sim racing conversation, reflecting our role as a connector of world-class partners and opportunities," said Marcos Muller‑Habig, Sector Enablement Director at Abu Dhabi Gaming. "As we continue to drive the emirate's vision to become a premier global destination and a leading hub for the gaming and esports industries, events like the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 become catalysts for growth and a key milestone in our journey to build an ecosystem that empowers talent, attracts partnerships and accelerates business development."
Gran Turismo, developed by Polyphony Digital Inc., a subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment, is regarded as one of the most visually and dynamically accurate driving simulators available, recently surpassing 100 million sales of the series.
For more information about Gran Turismo World Series 2026 Opener in Abu Dhabi and tickets, please visit www.ticketmaster.ae/event/1588346815.
For more information about Abu Dhabi Gaming, follow Abu Dhabi Gaming on Instagram, YouTube and Twitch.
ABU DHABI, UAE, Dec. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- For the first time in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi will host the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 opening event, scheduled for 28th of March 2026 at the Space42 Arena. The landmark event will bring together the world's top Gran Turismo drivers to compete in an elite live championship, engaging fans in the emirate and highlighting Abu Dhabi's esports capabilities to millions worldwide.
The announcement was made during the Gran Turismo World Series 2025 World Finals at the Fukuoka International Congress Centre in Japan, where H.E. Saeed Al Fazari, Executive Director of Strategic Affairs at the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), took the stage to share the news.
The Gran Turismo World Series 2026 opening event is organised by Polyphony Digital Inc, a subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment, the developer and publisher of the Gran Turismo series, and Abu Dhabi Gaming, an initiative led by DCT Abu Dhabi that coordinates efforts to transform the emirate into a global gaming hub.
H.E. Al Fazari said: "Hosting the Gran Turismo World Series opener is a proud moment for Abu Dhabi and the wider MENA region, reflecting our ambition to be a destination where possibilities are limitless. It marks a significant milestone for our esports and motorsport sectors, bringing elite global competition to the emirate and showcasing Abu Dhabi's proven capability to deliver world-leading esports and motorsport experiences. Abu Dhabi continues to offer a secure, future-ready environment for businesses, investors and talent, supporting our vision to become a global hub for innovation, entertainment, gaming and motorsport."
The Gran Turismo World Series is an annual competition to determine the world's best Gran Turismo player, comprising online qualifiers open to all players and live World Series events in which top racers travel to iconic destinations worldwide to compete.
Kazunori Yamauchi, Gran Turismo series producer., said: "We are thrilled to see Abu Dhabi host the 2026 Gran Turismo World Series opener in March 2026, marking the first time the event will be held in the Middle East. This is a historic milestone for our championship and a testament to the region's growing presence in global motorsport and esports. Additionally, we are delighted that Yas Marina Circuit, one of the world's most distinctive motorsport venues, is now available in Gran Turismo 7. Our aim has always been to connect players with the thrill and heritage of racing, and Yas Marina offers a unique experience that will resonate with motorsport fans and the gaming community worldwide."
The Yas Marina Circuit's inclusion in Gran Turismo 7 further extends Abu Dhabi's motorsport legacy into the digital arena, creating new opportunities for global audiences to connect with the emirate's culture of competitive excellence.
"This announcement marks an exciting moment for motorsports and esports fans in this region and the world, and positions Abu Dhabi Gaming at the forefront of the global sim racing conversation, reflecting our role as a connector of world-class partners and opportunities," said Marcos Muller‑Habig, Sector Enablement Director at Abu Dhabi Gaming. "As we continue to drive the emirate's vision to become a premier global destination and a leading hub for the gaming and esports industries, events like the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 become catalysts for growth and a key milestone in our journey to build an ecosystem that empowers talent, attracts partnerships and accelerates business development."
Gran Turismo, developed by Polyphony Digital Inc., a subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment, is regarded as one of the most visually and dynamically accurate driving simulators available, recently surpassing 100 million sales of the series.
For more information about Gran Turismo World Series 2026 Opener in Abu Dhabi and tickets, please visit www.ticketmaster.ae/event/1588346815.
For more information about Abu Dhabi Gaming, follow Abu Dhabi Gaming on Instagram, YouTube and Twitch.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
Abu Dhabi to Host 2026 Gran Turismo World Series Opener for the First Time in the Middle East
Abu Dhabi to Host 2026 Gran Turismo World Series Opener for the First Time in the Middle East
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In the news release, Award-Winning AR: RayNeo X3 Pro, selected as TIME Best Invention of 2025, launches globally Dec 17, issued 17-Dec-2025 by RayNeo over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that some updates are needed to reflect precise technology attributions in collaboration with Applied Materials. Key updates are: in Paragraph 4, the sentence has been streamlined from "The X3 Pro features the world's smallest full-color MicroLED optical engine, co-developed with Applied Materials" to "The X3 Pro features the world's smallest full-color MicroLED optical engine"; concurrently, Paragraph 9 has been enhanced from "The X3 Pro employs a true binocular display with dual optical engines and waveguides" to include the specification "by Applied Materials." The complete, updated release follows.
Award-Winning AR: RayNeo X3 Pro, selected as TIME Best Invention of 2025, launches globally Dec 17
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- RayNeo announced the December 17 global launch of its flagship RayNeo X3 Pro AR glasses—recently honored by TIME Magazine in its list of "Best Inventions of 2025." With built-in augmented reality (AR), RayNeo's X3 Pro will bring next‑generation visual technology to users in the United States and key markets worldwide.
Why TIME Magazine Calls the RayNeo X3 Pro One of the "Best Inventions of 2025"
The X3 Pro is engineered to be a versatile companion for modern life, seamlessly transitioning between productivity and entertainment. It elevates daily routines by enabling hands-free photography, providing real-time translation across languages, assisting with AI-powered note-taking, and enhancing communication. For leisure, it serves as a personal media hub for immersive viewing, gaming, and music. Crucially, its open ecosystem allows users to directly install and interact with popular Android applications like TikTok and YouTube, merging the convenience of a familiar mobile experience with the liberation of augmented reality.
This remarkable versatility is built upon a foundation of comprehensive engineering excellence across four core pillars: visual performance, intelligent processing, intuitive interaction, and an open software ecosystem.
* Visual Performance: The X3 Pro features the world's smallest full-color MicroLED optical engine, delivering a bright, high-contrast virtual display with a peak brightness of 6,000 nits for clarity in any environment.
* Intelligent Processing: Powered by the Snapdragon AR1 platform, the X3 Pro delivers top-tier AI and multimedia performance within an ultra-lightweight frame of just 76 grams (2.7 ounces).
* Intuitive Interaction: For effortless control across all scenarios, the device integrates multiple inputs: a built-in five-way temple touchpad and voice commands for immediate action, complemented by input options from a paired smartphone or Apple Watch.
* Open Software Ecosystem: Running on RayNeoOS 2.0 with its innovative AR Application Virtual Machine, the X3 Pro bridges the vast Android app library directly into the user's field of view, allowing access to apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok.
A Clear Choice in the Emerging Full-Color AR Market
In the consumer AR landscape, where only a few AR glasses like the Meta Display also offer full-color, see-through displays, the RayNeo X3 Pro presents itself as a distinctly superior choice, emphasizing openness, visual comfort, and practical usability.
* Superior Visual Design: Unlike monocular approaches, the X3 Pro employs a true binocular display with dual optical engines and waveguides by Applied Materials. This design respects natural binocular vision, significantly reducing eye strain and providing a more immersive, accurate, and comfortable experience for both media consumption and first-person photography.
* Commitment to an Open Ecosystem: The X3 Pro is built on a foundation of choice. It supports access to leading AI platforms like GPT and provides developers with robust tools (Unity, Android ARDK) to foster an expansive open AR ecosystem. This stands in stark contrast to closed systems, which restrict users to a single vendor's AI model and application environment, limiting both functionality and long-term flexibility.
* User-Focused Practical Innovations: While offering comparable battery life, the X3 Pro introduces key practical advantages. It supports use while charging, enabling true all-day usability, and features a dual-touchpad interface for more intuitive and responsive control compared to single-input alternatives.
"The TIME award validates our integrated approach: combining groundbreaking hardware with an open, user-centric platform," said Howie Li, founder and CEO of RayNeo. "With the launch of the X3 Pro, users will experience a device that adapts to their lives—enhancing productivity and seamlessly integrating into their daily entertainment."
Global Availability & Pricing:
- Buying Link: RayNeo X3 Pro buying Page
- Launch Date: December 17, 2025
- MSRP: $1,299
- Early Bird（Dec 17- Jan 5）: $1099
- Early Bird Offer: $999 (Available starting November 17 for a limited period)
About RayNeo:
RayNeo is the global leader in consumer Augmented Reality (AR) glasses, dedicated to transforming everyday life for one billion people. As the Official Worldwide Olympic Partner in the AR glasses category, the company represents the forefront of immersive technology. Its product portfolio features the AI-enhanced, full-color display X Series and the portable, large-screen Air Series, designed for versatility and high-quality viewing. According to Counterpoint Research, RayNeo dominated the global AR glasses market in Q3 2025, capturing a 24% market share and securing the top position worldwide.
In the news release, Award-Winning AR: RayNeo X3 Pro, selected as TIME Best Invention of 2025, launches globally Dec 17, issued 17-Dec-2025 by RayNeo over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that some updates are needed to reflect precise technology attributions in collaboration with Applied Materials. Key updates are: in Paragraph 4, the sentence has been streamlined from "The X3 Pro features the world's smallest full-color MicroLED optical engine, co-developed with Applied Materials" to "The X3 Pro features the world's smallest full-color MicroLED optical engine"; concurrently, Paragraph 9 has been enhanced from "The X3 Pro employs a true binocular display with dual optical engines and waveguides" to include the specification "by Applied Materials." The complete, updated release follows.
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- RayNeo announced the December 17 global launch of its flagship RayNeo X3 Pro AR glasses—recently honored by TIME Magazine in its list of "Best Inventions of 2025." With built-in augmented reality (AR), RayNeo's X3 Pro will bring next‑generation visual technology to users in the United States and key markets worldwide.
Why TIME Magazine Calls the RayNeo X3 Pro One of the "Best Inventions of 2025"
The X3 Pro is engineered to be a versatile companion for modern life, seamlessly transitioning between productivity and entertainment. It elevates daily routines by enabling hands-free photography, providing real-time translation across languages, assisting with AI-powered note-taking, and enhancing communication. For leisure, it serves as a personal media hub for immersive viewing, gaming, and music. Crucially, its open ecosystem allows users to directly install and interact with popular Android applications like TikTok and YouTube, merging the convenience of a familiar mobile experience with the liberation of augmented reality.
This remarkable versatility is built upon a foundation of comprehensive engineering excellence across four core pillars: visual performance, intelligent processing, intuitive interaction, and an open software ecosystem.
* Visual Performance: The X3 Pro features the world's smallest full-color MicroLED optical engine, delivering a bright, high-contrast virtual display with a peak brightness of 6,000 nits for clarity in any environment.
* Intelligent Processing: Powered by the Snapdragon AR1 platform, the X3 Pro delivers top-tier AI and multimedia performance within an ultra-lightweight frame of just 76 grams (2.7 ounces).
* Intuitive Interaction: For effortless control across all scenarios, the device integrates multiple inputs: a built-in five-way temple touchpad and voice commands for immediate action, complemented by input options from a paired smartphone or Apple Watch.
* Open Software Ecosystem: Running on RayNeoOS 2.0 with its innovative AR Application Virtual Machine, the X3 Pro bridges the vast Android app library directly into the user's field of view, allowing access to apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok.
A Clear Choice in the Emerging Full-Color AR Market
In the consumer AR landscape, where only a few AR glasses like the Meta Display also offer full-color, see-through displays, the RayNeo X3 Pro presents itself as a distinctly superior choice, emphasizing openness, visual comfort, and practical usability.
* Superior Visual Design: Unlike monocular approaches, the X3 Pro employs a true binocular display with dual optical engines and waveguides by Applied Materials. This design respects natural binocular vision, significantly reducing eye strain and providing a more immersive, accurate, and comfortable experience for both media consumption and first-person photography.
* Commitment to an Open Ecosystem: The X3 Pro is built on a foundation of choice. It supports access to leading AI platforms like GPT and provides developers with robust tools (Unity, Android ARDK) to foster an expansive open AR ecosystem. This stands in stark contrast to closed systems, which restrict users to a single vendor's AI model and application environment, limiting both functionality and long-term flexibility.
* User-Focused Practical Innovations: While offering comparable battery life, the X3 Pro introduces key practical advantages. It supports use while charging, enabling true all-day usability, and features a dual-touchpad interface for more intuitive and responsive control compared to single-input alternatives.
"The TIME award validates our integrated approach: combining groundbreaking hardware with an open, user-centric platform," said Howie Li, founder and CEO of RayNeo. "With the launch of the X3 Pro, users will experience a device that adapts to their lives—enhancing productivity and seamlessly integrating into their daily entertainment."
Global Availability & Pricing:
- Buying Link: RayNeo X3 Pro buying Page
- Launch Date: December 17, 2025
- MSRP: $1,299
- Early Bird（Dec 17- Jan 5）: $1099
- Early Bird Offer: $999 (Available starting November 17 for a limited period)
About RayNeo:
RayNeo is the global leader in consumer Augmented Reality (AR) glasses, dedicated to transforming everyday life for one billion people. As the Official Worldwide Olympic Partner in the AR glasses category, the company represents the forefront of immersive technology. Its product portfolio features the AI-enhanced, full-color display X Series and the portable, large-screen Air Series, designed for versatility and high-quality viewing. According to Counterpoint Research, RayNeo dominated the global AR glasses market in Q3 2025, capturing a 24% market share and securing the top position worldwide.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
Award-Winning AR: RayNeo X3 Pro, selected as TIME Best Invention of 2025, launches globally Dec 17
Award-Winning AR: RayNeo X3 Pro, selected as TIME Best Invention of 2025, launches globally Dec 17
