The Losail circuit, located in the desert outside Qatar’s capital, Doha, sprung up in 2003 and hosted its first international motorcycle race in 2005. In 2008, it became notable for hosting the first-ever floodlit MotoGP race.

At 5.380km in length, Losail is one of the longest circuits on the international calendar, with the main straight more than 1km long. Ten right turns, mix with six lefts but the flat and featureless landscape make it a difficult track to learn. Desert sand also causes grip problems.

Less than 30km from Doha International Airport, Losail circuit boasts superb facilities, while the city itself has a wide selection of hotels, some of which can inflate rates during race events.