ABU DHABI: As the Formula 1 action begins at Yas Marina Circuit, Emirate officials will proudly represent the UAE as part of a strong and diverse team working behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly and safely.
Among those playing a crucial role at the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend are Heba Abbas Bahaj and Shuhab Ahmed Al-Shehhi. As members of the Emirates Motorsport Organization, their responsibilities include helping ensure the drivers’ safety on track and keeping the public out of harm’s way.
Heba, who has 16 years of experience, will have the best seat in the house when the lights go out at the start of the race, and when the checkered flag waves at the end. As chief flag official, one of her responsibilities is to monitor the start and finish of all sessions and races over the weekend, liaising closely with race control.
“A lot of preparation goes into what is essentially the biggest motorsport event in our race calendar,” said Heba, 41, who volunteered at the first Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2009 before starting her career as an EMSO official.
“For my position, the training sessions include ‘flag refresher,’ ‘communication’ and ‘pit lane’ and they span over two months, culminating in a practical shakedown session at the end. We had to pass a written exam to be ready for the event.”
From Friday to Sunday, Heba says she expects to get approximately four hours of sleep each night, leaving her house at 6 a.m. and returning late in the evening. Despite the long, hectic days it is a job she loves, and she is looking forward to helping make sure the event is a success.
She said: “Yes, we have the best seat at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, but it’s not all glamour and easy. As officials, it’s our responsibility to ensure everyone is safe, as well as the safety of the track section we are responsible for. Therefore, we need to be vigilant and attentive at all times, which means standing on our feet for long periods of time, monitoring, and reporting on incidents we see that might affect the safety or integrity of the race.
“As start and finish line officials, we need to be super attentive and monitor what’s going on (on) track, especially when it’s a close finish and the leader is approaching our location. Now, imagine having to do all of this under the watchful eyes of millions of people — yes, it’s a fun and enjoyable time, but it’s also a lot of pressure and responsibility.”
Joining Heba on the EMSO team of officials is Shuhab Ahmed Al-Shehhi. With 12 years’ experience, the 38-year-old enters the F1 season finale as the event’s F1 sector chief.
His main priorities during race week include ensuring his team understand their roles and have the correct equipment for going trackside, monitoring areas for hazardous materials, and attending a daily debrief.
He said: “I am really excited about this week’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, although it will be a busy period. I always try to pass on positive vibes to people that I meet as that is very important and sets the tone ahead.
“Having been in this field for 12 years, what pleases me the most is the dedication of each official and their determination to do their job to the best of their ability, and I believe anyone who wants to be an EMSO official marshal in the future must be willing to learn, be a team player, and be honest.
“More importantly, they must possess a deep passion for motorsports. I recall the first time I sat in an F1 car many years ago, which ignited my love for the sport. Now, I am serving as a race official for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in my home country.”
Mahir Badri, EMSO chief executive, added: “Since the inaugural Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2009, our collaboration with (Grand Prix organizers) Ethara and Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management has been instrumental in developing a robust team of officials. Today, we are proud to say that our UAE teams are among the best in the world — highly skilled and respected internationally.
“The presence of Formula 1 in Abu Dhabi has made this profession increasingly attractive, and we’re especially proud of our Emirati officials and the diverse community of residents who form the UAE’s EMSO team. They consistently go above and beyond, dedicating their time and energy to ensuring the success of major motorsport events.”
He added: “Just days ago, we concluded the Dubai International Baja, a challenging event that tested the endurance and commitment of our officials, who delivered exceptional results under tough desert conditions.
“With over 6,000 active race officials within EMSO, our team not only excels locally but also plays a significant role internationally, supporting prestigious motorsport events across the globe. Their dedication and professionalism continue to be the backbone of our motorsport community.”
