As the 2025 Formula One season races toward its crescendo at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on 7 December, two icons of British mastery — Aston Martin and Glenfiddich — stand poised to use the opportunity to celebrate the art of precision and performance in all its forms.
Following the announcement of their global partnership, the collaboration between the legendary automaker and the world’s most awarded single malt Scotch is shifting gears from California’s coast to Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, where speed will meet ceremony beneath the Marina Circuit’s floodlights.
The union, unveiled during Monterey Car Week, marks Glenfiddich’s debut as Aston Martin’s official partner: a bold expansion of its existing relationship with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team. Now, as the sport’s final race draws near, both brands are preparing to showcase what happens when craftsmanship, innovation and performance merge into a singular statement of intent.
“Aston Martin and Glenfiddich are united by a deep respect for heritage and a commitment to craftsmanship,” says Stefano Saporetti, Aston Martin’s director of brand diversification. “This partnership allows us to bring our shared story to life through sensory, emotional experiences that resonate with the people who understand what excellence feels like — whether that’s behind the wheel or in the glass.”
For Aston Martin, 2025 has been a year defined by progression, both on track and in the brand’s broader vision of ultra-luxury performance and lifestyle. Numerous partnerships and launches have taken place, including the recent announcement of Aston Martin’s foray into real estate with a development at Daytona Beach, Florida, as well as the unveiling of the BD12 S in early October. Las August saw the release of the Girard-Perregaux Laureato Skeleton Aston Martin Edition timepiece, a celebration of the fusion of high horology and high-performance engineering. But most exciting of all has been the collaboration with Glenfiddich, a fellow brand committed to stepping outside the expected with a shared devotion to transformation.
“Together, we tell one story,” says Claudia Falcone, Glenfiddich’s global brand director. “Two icons united by heritage and driven by innovation —each pushing boundaries in our own way.”
As Formula One’s most dramatic season concludes in Abu Dhabi, Aston Martin and Glenfiddich stand as reflections of what it means to evolve without losing identity. Both are steeped in British heritage, yet propelled by a restless desire to redefine the future, one through the roar of an engine, the other through the quiet art of time. It’s a reminder that true performance isn’t about speed alone. It’s about precision, patience, and the pursuit of perfection.
Beyond the track:
What’s on at Yas Marina during 2025’s race weekend
Planning to take in the adrenaline-pumping atmosphere of the F1 weekend? Here’s the hottest spots to make the most of the action.
The biggest and most-anticipated weekend in the capital is just around the corner, and Yas Marina is once again set to be the centre of the action. From 4 to 7 December 2025, the waterfront destination will transform into an extraordinary playground of experiences and excitement for the season finale of Formula 1’s most thrilling championship.
A dream destination for race fans, food lovers, fashionistas and partygoers, Yas Marina promises a weekend alive with lifestyle activations, live performances from international DJs, vibrant brunches, yacht soirées and high-energy after-parties. Expect rows of gleaming luxury yachts docked along the promenade, sports cars revving under the city lights and a lineup of world-class restaurants ready to deliver unforgettable culinary moments. Here’s GMT GCC’s pick…
Nobu Pops Up at Yas Marina for Race Weekend
Adding an unmistakable touch of global glamour to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Nobu will bring its world-renowned Japanese cuisine to Yas Marina for an exclusive pop-up restaurant from 1 to 7 December 2025.
Founded by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro and Meir Teper, the celebrated dining brand will serve an elevated menu featuring its signature dishes including Black Cod Miso, Yellowtail Jalapeño and Wagyu A9 Truffle Amazu, all alongside creative race week specials and live DJ performances.
Set against Yas Marina’s spectacular waterfront backdrop, the pop-up offers indoor, outdoor and private dining for up to 220 guests, blending the brand’s signature sophistication with the high-octane thrill of Race Weekend. With three curated beverage packages and a lively atmosphere from day to night, Nobu promises to be one of the most sought-after dining experiences of the season, making it an elegant meeting point for race fans, celebrities and foodies alike. It goes without saying — early reservations are highly recommended.
Bla Bla Bar and Diablito Food & Music
Among the newest additions, the recently opened Bla Bla Bar will bring its signature Dubai energy to the UAE capital with laid-back day vibes that shift effortlessly into electric nighttime beats. Nearby, the ever-popular Diablito Food & Music remains a staple for Marina regulars: a Mediterranean-inspired hotspot offering spectacular views, lively ambiance and a perfect spot to sip, dine and soak in the uniquely Formula One energy from above the promenade.
Bar Du Port
Adding to the glamour, Bar Du Port, the celebrated French Riviera-inspired restaurant and bar, will make its Yas Island debut just in time for race weekend. Known for its chic aesthetic and sunset soirées, the venue will unveil exclusive dining packages and race-themed experiences, promising one of the most elegant atmospheres on the Marina.
Stars N’ Bars
Perfect for families and groups of friends, Stars N’ Bars brings the vibrant energy of an American sports bar with a dash of Monte Carlo glamour. Expect casual dining offers, live entertainment and big-screen race coverage in a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of the weekend: fun, spontaneous and full of heart.
Ishtar, La Mezcaleria & Mika
For those seeking bold flavours and a cosmopolitan edge, Ishtar invites guests to indulge in North African and Middle Eastern dishes paired with stunning waterfront views. Its culinary artistry and vibrant setting make it a must-visit for refined palates.
Meanwhile, La Mezcaleria injects Mexican flair and rhythm into the weekend, combining Latin-inspired cuisine with high-energy beats and a lively atmosphere that carries long into the night.
And for guests ready to keep the party going, Mika delivers an electric blend of award-winning cuisine and pulsating DJ sets, blurring the line between dining and nightlife. It’s where the city’s tastemakers meet to toast to the season’s end under the Marina lights.
