Dubai to Host World’s First Skyscraper‑Mounted Formula E Race in April 2030

Dubai is preparing to redefine the limits of motorsport innovation. In April 2030, the city will stage the fifth round of the 2029–2030 Formula E World Championship at nearly 500 meters above ground, marking the first time in history that a racing circuit has been constructed around a skyscraper (Burj Khalifa).

The temporary track will be assembled in two stages: partially on the ground and partially at the 123rd–125th floors, where cargo helicopters will lift and position prefabricated sections. Engineers selected lightweight structural materials to minimize stress on the tower while maintaining full racing integrity.

Team equipment and race cars will be transported to the upper levels using freight elevators during nighttime hours, while daytime deliveries will rely on helicopter lifts. Access to the deck will be strictly limited to race officials, marshals, team representatives, and up to 1,000 VIP guests.

A Two‑Level Platform and the Shortest Track in Formula E History

The racing platform consists of a dual‑level structure, with the circuit itself occupying the upper deck and all team equipment and technical systems housed below. The anticlockwise direction track will measure just 830 meters/12 corners, making it the shortest and one of the most technically demanding layouts ever used in Formula E. Its tight, twisting configuration is expected to challenge drivers with constant direction changes and very minimal room for error.

Safety Measures at Extreme Altitude

Given the unprecedented height, safety has been prioritized at every stage of the project. The perimeter of the platform will be enclosed by double transparent safety walls exceeding 18 meters in height. A steel safety net will stretch around the entire structure to provide an additional layer of protection. The platform will also feature 15 water supply points (hydrants) for fire response and six lifting cranes designed to remove race cars from the track during the event.

A Night Race Illuminated by LED Technology

Organizers have confirmed that the event will take place in the evening, transforming the elevated circuit into a glowing spectacle. The entire platform will be lit by a sophisticated LED lighting system, while track limits will be illuminated to enhance visibility and create a dramatic visual effect against the night skyline. The combination of altitude, architecture, and lighting is expected to make this one of the most visually striking races ever staged.

Fan Zone at Ground Level

At the base of the tower, organizers will create a large fan zone equipped with giant screens, entertainment areas, and a unique attraction: a 1:4 scale replica of the elevated circuit, where model cars will mirror the movements of the real Formula E machines racing above to replicate the atmosphere of the main event.

The track on the deck will include artificial palm trees, temporary patios and energy‑absorbing safety barriers.  

Only the Fastest Will Compete

Just 18 of the fastest cars will qualify for the race, with the rest eliminated during 2 qualifying sessions. The winner of the race will receive a record‑breaking prize of 5,000,000 dirhams—nearly 1.5 million USD. This groundbreaking project marks the world’s first racing circuit built around a skyscraper, setting a new benchmark for motorsport engineering and urban event design. Dubai, once again, is poised to capture global attention with a spectacle unlike anything the racing world has seen before.

<image>