Golden Hour, Palm Trees, and the Waterfront – The Ultimate Fan Guide to Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the final chapter of the Formula 1 season, with Yas Island delivering the perfect setting for a dramatic conclusion. With golden-hour racing, marina views and a circuit built around spectacle, this is where titles are sealed and legends are made. The energy builds quickly across the island as the week progresses, turning the championship finale into one of the most anticipated weekends on the calendar.

For fans, the excitement builds the moment you arrive on Yas Island. Palm-lined walkways fill, the marina gathers team-decorated yachts, and the glowing panels of the Yas Hotel create a stunning backdrop as the sun sets.

Fanzones fill with music and activity, restaurants open onto the promenade, and the entire waterfront feels alive as the final sessions approach. Engines echoing across the island and golden light settling over the circuit means it’s time for the title showdown – and here is how to make the most of your Abu Dhabi trip.

Chill before the thrill

Before the track sessions begin, Abu Dhabi offers plenty of things to see and do. With beachfront strolls, standout food and cultural highlights, the city is perfect for roaming around before the evening’s entertainment.

Qasr Al Watan: Visit the Presidential Palace in the morning before crowds build – the marble halls and intricate designs make for a stunning cultural stop. Your race ticket includes also access to the palace.

Walk the Corniche: The Corniche is a postcard stretch of waterfront with palm lined paths, cycle lanes and sweeping views across the Gulf. Visit the 8km (5 mi) promenade in the morning for cooler temperatures and quiet seaside energy.

Must-see theme parks: Get your adrenaline pumping by riding the world’s fastest rollercoaster – Formula Rossa at Ferrari World. It’s a fun warm-up to the real racing action, and your Grand Prix ticket includes free entry to one Yas Island theme park, such as Yas Waterworld and SeaWorld.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: One of the most breathtaking landmarks in the UAE – the mosque is the largest one in the country. Explore the vast courtyards, admire the architecture and enjoy the golden chandeliers. It is an active mosque, so make sure you are respectful of worshippers.

Louvre Abu Dhabi: Arrive mid-morning for soft light under the museum’s famous dome. The galleries mix global art, architecture and culture in this collaborative project with France, and is included in your race ticket.

Enjoy magical museums: The ticket also includes entry to the teamLab Phenomena, a cutting-edge multisensory art museum, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and Zayed National Museum – so why not take advantage and take in some Emirati culture.

Yas Mall brunch: Gather your energy with a leisurely brunch at one of the mall’s cafes or bistros. Ideal for race day fuel.

Mangrove kayaking: Explore Abu Dhabi’s protected mangroves on a guided kayak tour as you paddle through quiet channels and spot native birdlife.

Morning at Saadiyat Beach: Start your day with a calm walk on the white sand and a swim in clear turquoise waters. It is one of Abu Dhabi’s most peaceful spots.

Getting there: your route to Yas Marina Circuit

Yas Marina Circuit sits on Yas Island, about 30 minutes from central Abu Dhabi and only a short ride from most hotels in the area. The island is well connected during race weekend with clear signage, dedicated fan routes and smooth transport options that make your life easier.

Shuttle buses: Free event shuttles run from major Yas Island stops and selected partner hotels. They will drop you close to key gate entrances and operate regularly throughout the day.

Ride services and taxis: Uber, Careem and local taxis are widely available. Set your drop off point to the exact gate printed on your ticket for a quicker arrival.

Walking: If you are staying on Yas Island, several hotels are within walking distance of the track. Follow the pedestrian paths and fan wayfinding signs to reach your designated section.

Driving and parking: A limited number of parking zones are available for pass holders. If you are driving, plan to arrive early, as parking fills up fast during race weekend. Shuttles and walking remain your best bet.

Leaving the circuit: It can get very busy immediately after the chequered flag or concerts, so feel free to take a short break at a nearby resort or waterfront venue to let the crowds thin. After that, it’s much easier to make your way back using taxis, shuttles and walkways.

Inside the circuit and photo spots

Yas Marina Circuit is one of the most striking venues on the calendar. Its waterfront setting, flowing corners and glowing architecture make it a spectacular place to explore as the sun sets. The track blends high speed sections with tight technical turns, giving fans unique views from every grandstand as the race transitions into darkness.

Must-see corners and views

For the best view of wheel-to-wheel action, head straight for the West Grandstand. It overlooks the high-speed run into Turn 6–7, one of the prime overtaking zones of the lap, so you can gasp at the drivers going late on the brakes.

The marina section offers Yas Marina’s most iconic backdrop. Cars sweep past the yachts and under the glowing panels of the Yas Hotel, which lights up beautifully as the sun sets.

If you prefer atmosphere over apexes, the Main Grandstand is the heartbeat of race day. It overlooks the start-finish straight and hosts Abu Dhabi’s famous post-race pyrotechnics. You may even spot some donuts...

Wherever you choose to sit, higher seats offer wider views and more shade during the warm afternoon sessions.

Top photo spots

• The most iconic shot is from the Yas Marina Broadwalk. Capture cars sweeping past the yachts with the Yas Hotel glowing in the background. It will be best either just before sunset or when the hotel lights the night sky.
• Check out under the Yas Hotel canopy for dramatic overhead angles. Walk the elevated areas around the hotel as the LED panels create colourful patterns as cars flash beneath you.
• The back straight leading into Turn 6-7 is excellent for panning shots, with the afternoon light adding a golden streak to the motion blue.
• The Turn 1 banking is a great angle for the race launch – shoot from higher ground to capture the full grid as they charge into the opening corner.

Fanzone

Abu Dhabi’s Fanzones are spread across Yas Marina Circuit and the surrounding island, each offering its own mix of entertainment, culture and trackside energy. Set alongside the marina, waterfront walkways and major grandstands, these zones create a lively festival atmosphere as the afternoon sessions roll into sunset.

Expect live music, shaded lounge areas, pop-up cafes, food stalls, racing simulators, merchandise stands and interactive displays. Most race tickets include access to all Fanzones and the Yasalam After-Race Concerts, so you can make the most of everything happening across Yas Island.

Top fan hack

Download the official Abu Dhabi Grand Prix app before you arrive to access track timings, interactive maps, team and driver appearance timings, and full details on Fanzones and event activations throughout Yas Island.

After the chequered flag – Abu Dhabi nights

When the race finishes, Yas Island turns into a full celebration. Crowds stream toward Yas Bay, music fills the waterfront and the island’s restaurants, lounges and entertainment spots stay open well into the night.

Post-race concerts at Etihad Park: Across the road from the circuit, Etihad Park hosts major music acts throughout the weekend. Your ticket unlocks access to these concerts, making it one of the biggest post-race gatherings on Yas Island.

Official Abu Dhabi GP after-parties: From exclusive VIP events to large open-air celebrations, the Grand Prix’s official after-parties bring DJs, live performances and high-energy crowds. Expect international names, themed celebrations and late-night entertainment curated for race weekend.

The W Abu Dhabi for elevated drinks with a view: Perched above the circuit, the W’s rooftop lounges and stylish bars offer premium cocktails and night-time views of the marina and illuminated hotel canopy.

Yas Marina for relaxed waterside nights: A short walk from the grandstands, Yas Marina offers a range of bars, cafes and restaurants by the water. It’s ideal for fans wanting to unwind while still soaking up racing atmosphere.

The Corniche for scenic late-night walks and cafes: A short drive from Yas Island, the city’s iconic Corniche offers late-opening cafes along the waterfront and beautiful night-time views across the Arabian Gulf.

Al Maryah Island for dining and nightlife: The Galleria and its surrounding waterfront deliver stylish restaurants, lounges and cocktail bars. It’s one of Abu Dhabi’s top spots for a polished night out after the race.

Saadiyat Beach Club for upscale late-night lounging: Saadiyat’s beach clubs offer an elegant poolside, relaxed music and refined drinks in a quieter, coastal setting away from the crowds.

Foodie fuel – what to eat and drink

Abu Dhabi’s food culture blends Emirati traditions with Gulf flavours, Levantine influences and modern dining. Whether you’re exploring Yas Island or heading into the city, these dishes and drinks offer a real taste of the UAE.

Harees: A slow-cooked dish of wheat and tender meat beaten together until silky and smooth. It’s traditionally served during celebrations and is loved for its comforting, hearty flavour.

Madrooba: A rich Emirati stew made with salted fish, spices and thickened sauce. It’s savoury, unique and a great way to try a dish rooted in the region’s coastal heritage.

Khubz (fresh Emirati bread): Often baked in clay ovens and served hot, this bread pairs perfectly with dips like hummus, moutabal and fresh labneh. Look out for spots where it’s made fresh.

Regag bread snacks: Thin, crispy Emirati bread cooked on a hot dome and topped with cheese, honey or spices. It’s a popular street snack and easy to grab on the go.

Shish taouk and mixed grills: A staple across Abu Dhabi. Juicy skewers of marinated chicken or meat served with warm bread, pickles and garlic sauce. Ideal for a filling meal before the afternoon sessions.

Knafeh: A stretchy, sweet Middle Eastern dessert made with cheese, crispy pastry and syrup. Many cafes serve it warm, making it a perfect late-night treat after the race.

Arabic coffee (Gahwa) with dates: A traditional Emirati welcome. Light, aromatic coffee spiced with cardamom, poured into small cups and served with soft, caramel-sweet dates.

Mint lemonade: A refreshing local favourite: zesty, ice-cold and vivid green. Perfect for hot afternoons on Yas Island.

Travel hacks and tips

Weather and what to pack: Expect warm, sunny days and mild evenings. Pack breathable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and comfortable shoes for walking around Yas Island. A light layer is handy once the sun disappears.

Local time and rhythm: Abu Dhabi runs on Gulf Standard Time, while the city goes to great efforts to provide entertainment long into the night. Many places will stay open late, so take advantage of the chill days and intense evenings.

Safety and etiquette: The UAE is welcoming and modern, but modesty is appreciated. Dress respectfully when visiting cultural sites and be mindful of public behaviour. Couples should avoid overt displays of affection in public areas. There are women-only taxis available, identifiable by their pink roof.

Money and payments: Cards are accepted almost everywhere, including taxis, restaurants and Fanzone stalls. Keeping United Arab Emirates Dirham on hand is useful for small purchases or local cafés.

Power and charging: The UAE uses plug type G, the same as the UK. Bring a universal adapter and a portable power bank to keep devices charged through long race days.

Local phrases and basics: Arabic is the primary language spoken in the UAE, and while English is widely understood across Abu Dhabi, it is respectful to learn a few basic Arabic greetings when meeting people. Try out these ones below:

• Hello: As-salaam alaykum (ah-sah-LAHM ah-LAY-kum)
• Thank you: Shukran (SHOOK-ran)
• Good evening: Masaa al khayr (mah-SAH al KHAIR)
• Please to a man: Min fadlak (min FAD-lak)
• Please to a woman: Min fadlik (min FAD-lik)
• Goodbye: Ma’a salama (mah-ah sah-LAH-mah)