UAE’s leading motorsport-inspired STEM competition celebrates its 15th year
• Students from across the UAE to compete in Formula Ethara and STEM Racing National Finals
• Formula Ethara pathway expands with the 3ainawy Cup and Al Dhafra Cup for young students
Abu Dhabi, UAE – June 2026: The ADNOC Yas in Schools National Finals return from 25–27 June, marking the 15th edition of the UAE’s leading motorsport-inspired STEM programme. Hosted by Yas Marina Circuit and supported by ADNOC, the National Finals will bring together students from across the UAE to compete in Formula Ethara and STEM Racing disciplines, showcasing months of engineering, innovation and design.
Recognised as the region’s only motorsport-inspired STEM education programme delivered from a Formula 1 circuit, ADNOC Yas in Schools uses motorsport to inspire young people to develop practical skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics while exploring future careers in innovation and engineering.
Throughout the National Finals, teams will race their cars, present their engineering journey and demonstrate creativity through technical design, branding and innovation before a panel of judges. This year’s finals will be delivered in an online format, enabling teams from across the UAE to compete while maintaining the programme’s competitive experience.
The Formula Ethara pathway continues to grow with the inclusion of the 3ainawy Cup and Al Dhafra Cup, introducing students aged 13 and under from Al Ain and Al Dhafra to motorsport, engineering and design. These grassroots competitions will culminate in dedicated finals on 25 June as part of the wider National Finals programme.
Ali Al Beshr, General Manager of Yas Marina Circuit, said: “Celebrating 15 years of ADNOC Yas in Schools is a significant milestone for Yas Marina Circuit and for STEM education in the UAE. The programme has inspired thousands of young people by bringing engineering, technology and innovation to life through motorsport, while helping develop the future talent that will shape our nation’s future. We look forward to celebrating another outstanding group of finalists as they showcase their creativity, technical skills and passion for innovation.”
ADNOC Yas in Schools National Finals Schedule
25 June 2026 – Formula Ethara
- Rookie Competition: 10:00 AM – 11:10 AM
- Professional Competition: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
- Break: 1 hour
- 3ainawy Cup & Al Dhafra Cup Finals: 3:00 PM – 3:45 PM
26 June 2026
- Formula Ethara Awards Ceremony: 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
- 4×4 Challenge: 2:30 PM – 3:10 PM
- Break (with holding screen): 20 minutes
- 4×4 Awards Ceremony: 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM
27 June 2026 – STEM Racing
- Development Class: 10:00 AM – 11:20 AM
- Entry & Professional Classes: 12:30 PM – 2:20 PM
- Break: 1 hour 10 minutes
- STEM Racing Awards Ceremony: 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Participating Schools:
The 2026 edition brings together students from schools across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Al Dhafra, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah, reflecting the continued national growth of the Formula Ethara programme.
ABOUT YAS MARINA CIRCUIT:
Yas Marina Circuit is the United Arab Emirates’ most exciting sporting and entertainment multi-purpose venue. Located on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and operated by Ethara, the circuit is home to the annual FORMULA 1 ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX and much more.
In addition to its year-round programme of professional and grassroots motorsport events and experiences, including Drag and Yas Track Nights, the circuit has evolved into a thriving hub for entertainment, fitness and community engagement across the UAE.
Yas Marina Circuit is also a champion of sustainability in motorsport, holding the FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation, the highest environmental recognition awarded by the governing body. The accreditation reflects the circuit’s commitment to environmental management and Formula One’s ambition to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2030.
As the region’s most technologically advanced venue, Yas Marina Circuit also hosts a wide range of corporate meetings, conferences and events, while offering unique experiences including karting, driving experiences, racing schools, TrainYAS and a variety of community sporting events.
