The Gulf 12 Hours is a 12-hour endurance race contested on the full Grand Prix layout of Yas Marina Circuit (5.281 km). The race is split into two parts: an opening eight-hour segment, followed by a final four-hour segment, with a two-hour break in between. 

For fans, the two-hour pause is a highlight of the event. Spectators can enjoy a pit walkabout, enter the pit lane, watch the action inside the garages, and meet drivers leading the race. This unique feature offers rare access to the heart of the event before the field returns for a compact and dramatic four-hour finale under the Yas Marina floodlights.

The interruption acts like a safety car: gaps between cars are neutralised, but the number of laps already completed is carried over into the second part.