Formula 1, MotoGP, WWE and several other major international sporting series are continuing with their planned Middle East schedules despite increasing geopolitical tensions, recent attacks, travel warnings and airport restrictions. From mid-October until the end of 2026, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Abu Dhabi are due to host a dense programme of high-profile events ranging from motorsport to boxing, wrestling and mixed martial arts.
For Formula 1, the situation is particularly significant because the championship is still scheduled to visit Qatar from 27–29 November before travelling to Abu Dhabi for the season finale from 4–6 December. Both events remain part of the revised 2026 Formula 1 calendar, while organisers across the region continue to signal that their major sporting commitments will proceed unless the security situation deteriorates significantly.
Major sporting events scheduled across the Middle East
The Arabian Peninsula and the United Arab Emirates are set to stage numerous major sporting events between late October and December. Despite geopolitical tensions and recent attacks, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Abu Dhabi remain important destinations for boxing, wrestling, Formula 1, MotoGP, mixed martial arts and other competitions.
The main events currently scheduled are:
- 24 October: UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi;
- 29–31 October: FIA Extreme H in Qiddiya;
- 31 October: Canelo Álvarez versus Christian Mbilli boxing match in Riyadh;
- 6–8 November: MotoGP Qatar Grand Prix at Lusail;
- 7 November: WWE Crown Jewel Premium Live Event in Riyadh;
- 11–14 November: Saudi Arabia Rally in Jeddah;
- 27–29 November: Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix, followed by the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on 4–6 December;
- 11–21 December: Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Riyadh;
- 18–19 December: Formula E Jeddah E-Prix.
Many of these events are continuing as planned despite travel advisories and restrictions affecting airports in the region.
WWE continues Crown Jewel promotion despite Riyadh attack
WWE continues to actively promote Crown Jewel, its next Premium Live Event, which is scheduled to take place in Riyadh on 7 November. During the latest episode of Monday Night Raw, official graphics clearly identified the Saudi capital as the venue, with no mention of any possible change or relocation.
At least from a communications perspective, that suggests the organisation has not publicly announced any alternative plans for the event. Crown Jewel is one of WWE’s most important annual fixtures in the Middle East, and its continued promotion on the company’s flagship television programme reinforces the impression that operations are proceeding as planned.
The region is meanwhile dealing with a serious escalation in tensions. Iran-backed Houthi militias carried out several targeted attacks against Riyadh International Airport over the previous weekend. One missile struck the infrastructure, causing 12 deaths and approximately 300 injuries.
Following the attacks, Saudi authorities decided to keep the main airport closed until at least Saturday evening, disrupting a large part of commercial air traffic and further complicating travel. Governments in several countries, including the United States and Canada, have also updated their travel advisories, urging citizens to reconsider trips to the area because of the elevated risk.
Major sporting events remain scheduled in Saudi Arabia
Despite the difficult security situation and widespread international media coverage, the major sporting events planned in Saudi Arabia have not been cancelled.
Through statements from Turki Alalshikh, the General Entertainment Authority reiterated that the boxing match between Canelo Álvarez and Christian Mbilli on 31 October is expected to take place as scheduled. Turki Alalshikh stressed that Canelo Álvarez intends to honour the date “regardless of everything”, sending a message of continuity and determination.
WWE Crown Jewel is scheduled just one week after the boxing event and therefore remains firmly on the calendar for the time being. WWE appears to be following the same approach, with no indication so far that it intends to interrupt or relocate commitments that have already been announced.
F1 Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix plans remain unchanged
Formula 1 and MotoGP are also maintaining their plans to stage their respective events in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Formula 1 is due to visit the Lusail International Circuit for the 2026 Qatar Grand Prix from 27–29 November before moving to Yas Marina one week later.
The 2026 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix remains scheduled for 4–6 December and is set to close the Formula 1 season. Meanwhile, Imola Circuit remains on alert and ready for possible calendar changes should the geopolitical situation require last-minute logistical adjustments.
Governments across the Gulf region are currently maintaining a policy of operational continuity despite the complex security situation and continuing airport restrictions. Any changes to event locations or dates are expected only if conditions on the ground deteriorate further and significantly.
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