The Complete Guide to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

The glitzy three-day Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi is just around the corner, happening at the end of November.

Those lucky enough to attend can expect extravagant parties, world-class performances, and sky-high prices.

Not planning to visit the UAE capital during the race weekend?

Don’t worry, there’s still plenty of race-related excitement to enjoy from afar.

Here’s everything you need to know.

The Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Imagine a thrilling combination of high-speed cars, dazzling celebrities, 60,000 excited fans, and headline musical acts.

Now, add all of that to the luxurious backdrop of Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s stunning capital city.

Top it off with a citywide festival of free entertainment and a fleet of extravagant mega yachts.

The highly anticipated Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix takes place from Friday to Sunday, November 25-27.

This thrilling race takes place at the cutting-edge, ultramodern Yas Marina Circuit.

Opened in 2009, this unique circuit holds the distinction of being the world’s only motorsports venue with fully covered and shaded grandstands.

Luxury yachts line the marina, creating a vibe that’s a mix of futuristic charm and Monaco’s glamour.

The event kicks off with practice and qualifying on Friday and Saturday, before the 55-lap Grand Prix on Sunday. Notable past winners include Nico Rosberg, Lewis Hamilton, and Sebastian Vettel, who currently holds the record with a time of 1:40.279.

The event offers all the race-day staples, including food vendors, drink stations, and kid-friendly zones filled with games.

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix goes beyond the typical race experience, featuring boozy brunches, live music from top bands, and free entry to two exciting theme parks.

Don’t miss out on the music – it’s an experience in itself.

Each night during the Grand Prix, a massive concert is part of the festivities.

On Friday, electronic duo The Chemical Brothers will take the stage. On Saturday, Lionel Richie brings his classic sing-alongs to the crowd.

Sunday features a performance by Rihanna, marking the only Middle Eastern stop on her 'Anti World' tour.

An F1 ticket gives you access to the concert on the same day. Purchase a three-day pass, and you can enjoy all three concerts. Note that concert entry is exclusive to race ticket holders.

Exclusive Extras

Your ticket also grants same-day access to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld.

At Ferrari World, visitors can experience the world's fastest roller coaster, reaching speeds of up to 240km/h, or take a spin in one of the park's Ferraris.

Next, head over to Yas Waterworld where you can enjoy 43 thrilling rides, including a suspended roller coaster and a series of twisting, plunging water slides.

Experience the VIP treatment

Ready to go all out before you head home?

The F1 Paddock Club tickets offer access to a luxurious, air-conditioned suite complete with stylish furniture, large screens, and endless food and drinks.

Red Bull’s exclusive racing package features lavish suites positioned directly above the team’s garages, complete with HD video walls streaming live race action.

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, enjoy a delightful brunch experience at the race.

With hundreds of luxurious yachts docking at Yas Marina during race weekend, one of the most extravagant ways to witness the excitement is by watching from the water.

Accommodation

Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, a five-star luxury hotel nestled next to the racetrack, is the ideal place to stay if you're willing to splurge.

This modern venue offers exclusive race weekend packages, featuring a pit lane tour on Thursday, full access to the race throughout the weekend, and entry to the concerts.

A minimum stay of three nights is required to enjoy these perks.

Yas Island is home to several other upscale hotels, including the creekside Crowne Plaza and the Radisson Blu situated next to Yas Links Golf Club.

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, Abu Dhabi city is just a 30-minute taxi ride away.

Taxis in the city are metered, reasonably priced, and well-maintained.

Dining

For those not staying at Yas Viceroy, several of the hotel's restaurants provide fantastic trackside views and gourmet dining experiences.

Two-Michelin star chef Antonio Mellino crafts exquisite Italian dishes at Amici.

For a taste of rich Middle Eastern cuisine, there's Atayeb.

Experience the electric vibe of the F1 with a meal at Yas Island's waterfront marina.

Top picks include Iris, a trendy spot known for attracting celebrities; Cipriani, a luxurious Italian restaurant that's always in high demand; and Diablito, a rooftop hangout offering tapas, sweeping views of Yas Island, and a lively party atmosphere.

Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, a stylish and sophisticated Cantonese restaurant, is just a 30-minute drive from the race. It's definitely worth the trip.

This upscale venue becomes a VIP hotspot during F1 weekend, where celebrities and elites gather to indulge in lobster stir-fried with truffle sauce.

Do

Yasalam, Abu Dhabi's free entertainment festival, offers a variety of arts, music, and F1-themed events from November 24 to 27.

The F1 FanZone features race simulations, food, and games, while the Heritage Plaza showcases interactive exhibits of Emirati culture.

The popular Beats on the Beach music festival highlights both local and international talent, with past performers like Jason Derulo, Fatboy Slim, and Assi El Hellani.

Concerts run all weekend on Lagoon Beach, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Unlike the main race concerts, these performances are entirely free of charge.

No Grand Prix? No worries.

Tickets for the Grand Prix tend to sell out quickly, but for those who can't attend the race, there's no need to stress.

Yas Marina Circuit, the iconic venue for the Grand Prix, hosts regular events throughout the year.

The track isn’t just about cars.

For fitness enthusiasts, you can join the 5,000 active locals who work out at Yas Marina every week.

You can also walk, jog, participate in the annual marathon, join the vibrant Color Run, or try crossfit or yoga.

Even better, much of it is free. You can find the exact timings on the Yas Marina Circuit website.

Ultimately, the F1 injects a thrilling energy into Dubai's often quieter neighbor. For those wanting to experience the capital at its finest, November is the ideal time to visit.

But there's plenty of high-octane excitement to enjoy year-round.