How to get there
The circuit is about 25 minutes’ drive from the main island, with most roads well signposted. There’s limited parking and it’s about Dhs50 from downtown by taxi. Buses will also be organised to transport visitors to and from the circuit, look out for times and details to be announced on the www.yasmarinacircuit.ae closer to the time.
Support races
The big F1 race is on Sunday, but there are still plenty of support races to watch. There’s the GP2 Asia Series, regional action with the Chevrolet Supercars ME Championship and the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup.
Entertainment
F1 is the perfect excuse to make a big song and dance, and the entertainment organisers, Flash have certainly gone all out for the occasion. As well as the circuit itself hosting top international bands (see Time Out Abu Dhabi), the corniche will be playing host to an array of talent from across the world, from Timbaland and former Bob Marley cohorts The Wailers to Arabic stars such as UAE singer Hussein Al Jasmi and Lebanese star Fares Karam.
After parties
Formula One means celeb-packed parties. For a choice selection of a few exclusive nights.
For the kids
F1 is certainly not adult only. The F1 Zone on the corniche will be showing family movies, while the area screening the live races will have plenty of fun and games for kids.
TV schedule
Not got a ticket? Watch the main event on Bahrain TV, or bag yourself a spot on the corniche where both the Brazil and Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be screened live.
Tickets
Tickets are available on the circuit website www.yasmarina circuit.ae or by contacting 02 446 0384. Also available at the Etihad Holidays offices at Abu Dhabi, Khalidaya and Marina Malls. Ticket prices start from Dhs1,500 for a three-day ticket, for which a complimentary car parking permit is also supplied.
What to bring
• Suntan lotion For obvious reasons
• Ear plugs F1 cars are loud (about 11db when passing), so best to protect your lugholes
• Money For purchasing food, drinks, souvenirs, Ferrari caps etc
• Camera ‘Yep, that’s Lewis Hamilton’s head… right there… if you squint a bit’
• Time Out Abu Dhabi This month’s copy along with this guide are musts if you want to read up on the drivers, work out which after party you’re going to and everything else in between
