The UAE's cosmopolitan capital is renowned for hosting the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit. Whether you're here for the F1 season finale or a dose of winter sun, you'll find plenty of things to do in Abu Dhabi during the Grand Prix weekend.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
After Yas Marina Circuit, the second place on any F1 fan’s list should be Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. This nearby attraction almost backs onto the racetrack, and is a fun-filled way to spend a few hours in the capital.
After the thrilling spectacle of the Formula 1, channel your inner Lewis Hamilton on the world’s fastest rollercoaster. Strap in, put your protective glasses on and prepare to accelerate from 0-240km/h in just 4.9 seconds, on board Formula Rossa.
In-between thrills, other attractions at this Ferrari-branded theme park include a family zone, driving simulators, go-karting and an extensive collection of racing memorabilia. What's more, it's open every day of the year so racing fans will never miss out.
Warner Brothers World Abu Dhabi
Attending the Grand Prix with the family? Everyone will fall in love with the whimsical world of Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi.
Conveniently located on Yas Island just a ten-minute drive from the racetrack, the world's first Warner Bros-branded indoor theme park is spread over six immersive 'Lands' – Warner Bros Plaza, Metropolis, Gotham City, Cartoon Junction, Bedrock and Dynamite Gulch.
Spanning 37 acres, it's also the world's largest indoor theme park, where 29 thrilling rides and attractions entertain children and adults alike.
Yas Waterworld & Yas Mall
Whilst in town for the Grand Prix, a trip to Yas Waterworld is a must. Even though the race takes place in November, daytime temperatures can still reach 30 degrees so it's the perfect place to cool off.
Float along the lazy river and make a splash in the UAE’s largest wave pool. For those with a need for speed, ride the Jebel Drop, which at the height of a mountaintop is the region's tallest speed slide.
With more than 40 exhilarating rides and attractions, there's something for everyone. The waterpark also has a variety of on-site restaurants as well as a souk and pearl-diving exhibits. Next, head over to the huge 2.5 million square foot Yas Mall for a spot of shopping. Home to huge department stores, high end boutiques and an incredible array of dining options, this a prime spot to hang out near the grand prix track.
Go on a Desert Safari
With lovely temperatures during the winter, head out into the sprawling copper sands for an unforgettable desert safari. Whether you choose Al Ain, Liwa or the dramatic Empty Quarter, colossal sand dunes and endemic wildlife including wild Arabian Oryx, await.
Spend a day dune-bashing in a 4×4, quad-biking and even sand-boarding across the desert. Other, more traditional options include a falconry experience, heritage and cultural tours and camel riding.
One of the most authentic ways to experience the desert is by glamping overnight under the stars in one of the private luxury camps. Sample local favourites like Lamb Ouzi and Moroccan Tajine during a Bedouin-style feast, while you're entertained by live music. The meal ends with a large assortment of Arabic sweets, dates and coffee.
Helicopter Tour
For a suitably glitzy way to celebrate the beginning of your F1 trip, why not see the majestic beauty of Abu Dhabi from above? Get a unique bird’s-eye view of the Emirate’s iconic landscapes, from desert to mangroves, mountains to city landmarks.
Enjoy panoramic views as you zip over Emirates Palace, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Marina Circuit, Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Saadiyat Island and the dramatic Etihad Towers on the dazzling Corniche.
For the most glamorous way to watch the F1, book our Abu Dhabi Platinum Hospitality Tour. Watch the sunset racing action from our plush air-conditioned suite overlooking the pit lane. See the world’s fastest drivers take on the circuit up-close, while relaxing with free-flowing premium food and beverages.
Abu Dhabi Dhow Cruise
Savouring dinner on a traditional wooden dhow is another great thing to do in Abu Dhabi during the Grand Prix. Known as 'camels of the maritime silk road', these traditional Arabic vessels were used to transport heavy goods across the Gulf waters and offer an authentic dining experience.
Feasting on grilled meats, fresh fish and more, you'll cruise along the Corniche of Abu Dhabi, the city’s signature waterfront area, admiring monuments and skyscrapers as you go.
Heritage Village
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is full of glitz and glamour. But for a sense of a more traditional Abu Dhabi pre oil boom — think palm-leaf houses, tents and fishing towns — spend a couple of hours at the reconstructed Heritage Village. Watch talented craftsmen during metal, pottery, and glass-blowing workshops, then pop into the museum in the old fort with its traditional wind tower for cooling the interior.
Visit the Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a fine example of Islamic architecture and a wonderful way to experience rich culture during the Grand Prix weekend. With it's unique open-door policy, visitors as well as worshippers can experience its immense beauty. At peak times, the mosque sees up to 55,000 guests every day.
Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque is of the largest mosques in the world. Featuring a courtyard with one of the largest marble mosaic artworks in the world, reflective pools, an iconic prayer hall and 82 marble domes etched with verses from the Quran - it's little surprise it took twelve years to complete!
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Another cultural highlight is the Louvre on Saadiyat Island, encompassing 9,200 square metres of art and artefacts from all over the world. Designed by Pritzker-prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, step into a world of calm and serenity underneath a sensational 7,500-tonne dome. Outside, enjoy a guided boat tour to learn about the architecture of the structure—all from the vantage point of the Arabian Sea.