Malaysia is making extensive preparations to welcome thousands of international motorsport fans as the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix returns to the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) this October. The Immigration Department (JIM) has announced plans to ensure fast, secure, and efficient immigration clearance at all major entry points, helping create a smooth arrival experience for visitors attending one of the year’s biggest sporting events.
Immigration Director-General Datuk Zakaria Shaaban said the department will work closely with the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) to streamline immigration procedures involving visas, entry passes, and border clearance while maintaining strict security standards.
According to Zakaria, delivering excellent service to international visitors remains a top priority as Malaysia prepares to host a world-class Formula 1 event once again.
The Immigration Department expects a significant increase in visitor arrivals during the race weekend. Drawing from Malaysia’s previous experience as a Formula 1 host, earlier editions of the Malaysian Grand Prix attracted more than 100,000 spectators. Organisers are now targeting approximately 150,000 attendees for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang.
Officials also believe the total number of foreign visitors could reach as many as 300,000, based on attendance figures recorded at Formula 1 events in countries including France and Japan. Such numbers would provide a substantial boost to Malaysia’s tourism, hospitality, transportation, retail, and food industries.
To support the influx, JIM has proposed several initiatives to simplify immigration processes, including special arrangements for the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) involving Formula 1 teams, drivers, race crews, and other event personnel. These measures remain subject to government approval.
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Formula 1 previously confirmed that the Bahrain Grand Prix will take place at the Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to October 4, 2026, through a collaboration between Malaysia and Bahrain. The race was originally scheduled to be held in Bahrain in April but was postponed due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
Sepang International Circuit has a proud Formula 1 legacy, having hosted the Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 until 2017 before it was removed from the Formula 1 calendar because of increasing hosting and licensing costs. Its return to the global motorsport spotlight is expected to reignite international attention and strengthen Malaysia’s position as a destination capable of hosting prestigious international sporting events.
Beyond the excitement of Formula 1, this event represents far more than just a race. Every international visitor who arrives brings opportunities for local businesses, hotels, restaurants, transport providers, tourism operators, and communities across Malaysia. Efficient immigration services are often the first impression travelers receive, and a seamless arrival experience can shape how they remember the country long after the checkered flag falls. As Malaysia welcomes the world back to Sepang, the success of this event will not only be measured by lap times but also by the country’s ability to showcase its hospitality, professionalism, and readiness to host global events on the biggest stage.
