There’s no doubting it, Yas Island is the most popular tourist destination in Abu Dhabi and always has heaps going on.
And it’s not all about boats, extremely fast cars and rollercoasters in this adrenaline-fuelled part of the city.
Between hosting some of the UAE’s biggest events (we’re looking at you F1), welcoming thrill-seekers to record-breaking attractions and being home to some top-quality sport and shopping facilities, restaurants and bars, there’s so much to do on the island.
The man-made isle’s development began in 2006 and it’s not slowing down any time soon. Yas Bay Waterfront, the island’s newest $1.1billion (Dhs4.04billion) development, will be home to an exciting line-up of restaurants and bars including Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar, La Carnita and Lock Stock & Barrel (read more here). As well as these, the Waterfront will also have a pier with 37 cafés and restaurants as well as 19 retail outlets.
See, we told you this was an isle of plenty.
Casa De Cuba
With flower walls and neon signs, this vibrant nightlife spot is well worth a look. Picture opportunities aside, head along and you can take in the scenic view of Yas Marina and try the Cuban-inspired mixed drinks and experience the buzzing atmosphere the venue is renowned for.
Open Tue-Sat 5pm-3am. Yas Marina, Yas Island (056 742 7435).
CLYMB Abu Dhabi
If you’re an adrenaline seeker this one’s perfect for you. This place’s popularity is soaring, though that isn’t much of a surprise considering it is home to both the world’s biggest indoor skydiving flight chamber (measuring an incredible 10m by 26m) and the planet’s tallest indoor climbing wall at 43m.
Prices vary. Open Tue-Sat 1pm-9pm. Yas Island (600 511115).
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Yas Island and motorsport go hand in hand, which makes it the perfect home for Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. You can brave the fastest roller coaster in the world, Formula Rossa, or take a spin on Flying Aces, which features the world’s highest roller coaster loop at 52m.
Prices vary. Open Tue-Sat noon-8pm. Yas Island (600 511 115).
Filini Garden
Ready to tuck into some great Italian food? Based on looks alone Filini Garden is one of the finest restaurants in the city, with amazing views, a stunning outdoor terrace and an impressive, modern dining room. The food has plenty of style and substance, too.
Open Sat, Mon-Wed 5pm-1am, Thu 5pm-2am, Fri 12.30pm-3.30pm & 5pm-2am. Radisson Blu Hotel, (02 656 2000).
Iris Yas Island
Looking for an excuse to get dressed up in your poshest outfit? An evening at Iris lets you experience all the fun of a wild night out, but in a classy venue and with some wicked views of the marina. It’s another one of those countless Abu Dhabi scenes that is made for Instagram, especially with your glad rags on.
Open daily 6pm-3am. Yas Marina (055 160 5636).
