DESTINATION GUIDE: What fans can eat, see and do when they visit Abu Dhabi for this weekend’s season finale
The Formula 1 season finale, which takes place in the Emirati city of Abu Dhabi under the lights, is usually an absolutely beautiful event. Situated on a Persian Gulf island, this culturally diverse and forward-thinking Arab nation consistently extends a cordial welcome to visiting F1 enthusiasts and race fans, both literally and figuratively. It puts on a show worthy of its status as the season’s final race, guaranteeing that the season ends with a spectacular display of fireworks.
What and where should I eat?
When it comes to food, Abu Dhabi has a diverse range of cultural influences. It draws inspiration from neighboring nations like India, Lebanon, and Jordan, which guarantees that the food is infused with flavorful spices, as well as from ingredients all throughout the Middle East and Asia.
Because of its importance as a seaside trading center, the city’s restaurant menus are always stocked with of fresh fish and seafood.
Where to lodge
The best area to stay during the event is definitely on Yas Island itself, where you can be sure to be close to the track and fully immersed in the exciting party atmosphere that surrounds it.
There are many different hotels to choose from. You can choose to stay at one of the well-known, standard options that are close to the circuit by foot, or you can go all out and choose the W Hotel, which has a great location near the 5.2 km track and a party atmosphere that is enhanced by its hip bars and restaurants.
Head over the bridge to mainland downtown for a more sedate stay and the chance to see the heart of true Abu Dhabi. There, you’ll find a variety of lodging options conveniently located a short drive from the excitement.
Where can I watch the race?
The next best thing is to score a seat in the West Grandstand, where you’ll have a wonderful place to witness all of the action heading into Turn 6, if you can’t secure a trackside view from a hotel at the W Hotel and don’t have a friend with a boat in Yas Marina.
As an alternative, grab a seat in the Main Grandstand along the start-finish straight to take in the atmosphere and the amazing fireworks. Just be sure to secure a high enough place to avoid the intense Abu Dhabi sun.
Highlights outside of Formula 1
Yas Island offers a plethora of entertainment options, with Ferrari World catering to thrill-seekers and adrenaline addicts alike. This top-notch entertainment park, which is close to the Formula One track, is home to the fastest roller coaster in the world, Formula Rossa, which can propel riders to a high speed of 240 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.
In addition, it features more than 40 record-breaking attractions, the tallest space frame building ever constructed, and the highest loop coaster in the world. It’s the ultimate destination for non-stop, heart racing fast fun, and a stone’s throw from the action on track making it the perfect destination between sessions.
Interesting fact
A self-confessed petrolhead, Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan al Nahyan of the UAE ruling royal family has earned the nickname “Rainbow Sheikh” for his love of color. Over the course of his life, he has accumulated a collection of unusual and rare automobile creations, some of which hold world records, which are housed in four museums located in the UAE and Morocco.
With 718 cars, the Sheikh holds the record for having the greatest collection of 4×4 vehicles in the world. Many of these vehicles are on exhibit at the Emirates National Auto Museum, which is designed like a pyramid. The Sheikh prefers supersized reproductions and off-road vehicles over supercars.
