Your guide to the activities around this weekend's Abu Dhabi's F1 Grand Prix

Experiences

Collabs

For the brand aware and collab enthusiasts, you can enjoy a series of exciting activations at Yas Marina this year, at their Welcome Alley, which includes collaborations such as Peroni Zero x Aston Martin, Ferrari Prosecco, Lyre’s and Whispering Angel’s picturesque flower wall. You’ll also be able to enjoy daytime offerings such as a mariachi band, an origami ballerina, and mystic mimes, who will leave you in awe with their colourful storytelling. You can also enjoy a beautiful laser show that will create a spellbinding display in the night sky.

Art

Rosewood Abu Dhabi

Homegrown hero, BB Social, unveils a roaring set menu for F1 weekend. Kick off mealtime at this stunning property  on Al Maryah Island with bites like the Nagoya Yellowtail Sashimi or Crispy Duck Bao, marvellous mains such as the Shisito Chicken and Truffle Barley Bistro, and cap things off with a tantalising dessert spread that includes the exciting BB Creme Brulee, or even their Sweet Endings, with five flavours of ice cream lollipops. Sparkling included.

While you’re on site, make sure you also stop by their lobby and spot their collaboration with 7Art Gallery. As Abu Dhabi gears up for the Grand Prix, the Rosewood’s arts table blends the thrill of motorsport with artistic expression, showcasing the unique piece for everyone to enjoy.

Rosewood Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, Dhs350 (min. 2 diners). Tel: (0)2 236 2600, @bbabudhabi

Iris

Guests at Iris are in for a treat, as they will have a chance to admire the McLaren car livery replica for the 2024 season, designed by Saudi artist Nujood Al-Otaibi in collaboration with Vuse. The inspiration behind this year’s livery combines McLaren’s motorsports history, as well as Nujood’s passion for motorsports. To further ignite your passion, a display featuring Lamborghini and Swiss X cars will grace Yas Marina, offering an exciting opportunity for car aficionados to revel in.

Iris, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Mon to Sat 6pm to 3.30am. Tel: (0)55 160 5636, @irisyasisland

Federico Kampf art exhibition

Art lovers will be in for a treat at the 2023 Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix, as an exceptional art exhibition showcasing the renowned collection of Federico Kampf, one of the world’s leading Mexican visual artists, will grace the Yas Marina Circuit. The artistic endeavour will strive to add to the the excitement of the Abu Dhabi’s event laced weekend, and will blend historical artistry with contemporary themes. Arrive, interpret, enjoy.

Live Performances

While you stroll down beautiful Yas Marina on race weekend, groove to the beat of a merry Mariachi Band’s guitars and sing-along with their lively tunes. If you’re a dance enthusiast, Origami Ballerinas will perform a unique and graceful act that will combine the art of origami with ballet. While you’re at it, don’t forget to pass by the Mystic Mimes for colourful silent storytelling.

Abu Dhabi Race Week

Aioka

Amazing views, five-star service and an A-list guest list comprise the Aioka Race Weekend experience, and this year, guests can enjoy all the fun both on and off track in a luxury location with jaw-dropping views. But that’s not all. Aioka and Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake have teamed up to create unique experiences for you, with Aioka now the team’s official concierge partner.

Aioka, W Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Friday November 24 1:00pm to 7:00pm, Saturday November 25 1:00am to 7:00pm and Sunday November 26 1:00pm to 2:00am. aioka.com

On the Grid: The Abu Dhabi Auction

Formula 1 Paddock Club and Bonhams Cars will present the most high-profile auction of racing and sports cars during this year’s Grand Prix weekend, on Saturday November 25. The On the Grid: The Abu Dhabi Auction event will take place on Saturday evening, and will feature more than 30 collector cars, including Formula One cars and one-of-a-kind supercars on the Yas Marina circuit’s starting grid. Sales are expected to reach over US$ 20 million, and some of the meanest machines that will be going under the hammer include racing legend Mario Andretti’s 1978 John Player Special Lotus-Cosworth Type 79, Kimi Räikkönen’s Kimi McLaren MP4/21, Fernando Alonso’s 2022 custom-spec McLaren Elva and a uniquely specified Porsche 911 RSR, along with a 2010 Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 Super Veloce.

If culture is what checks your boxes, all race ticket holders can also enjoy a range of unrivalled perks, with access to one of Yas Island’s incredible theme parks, Qasr Al Watan and the Louvre Abu Dhabi through the ‘Yas All In’ ticket, valid between Wednesday, November 22 to Monday, November 27.

Say Yas to dreamy dining destinations

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s own dedicated space for global motorsports action and all things entertainment, also happens to be the emirate’s dining hotspot, with innumerable dining destinations to choose from. Here are some of our picks to get you in the mood…

Garage at the W Abu Dhabi

Sit down at the W Abu Dhabi’s Garage, where you can rev up your appetite as you enjoy excellent food and beverage options, electrifying entertainment and an unparalleled view of the Yas Marina’s racetrack. Their B.I.G. Trackside Brunch will feature a medley of marvellous treats, an endless menu and exquisite beverages. With four brunches strategically timed for each race session, you get to recharge while being powered by the symphony of roaring engines on the racetrack. Throughout brunch, you will be treated to premium bottles of bubbles, expertly crafted cocktails, a roaming oyster trolley, delicate caviar, a decadent dessert art table, a carving station, and a sushi bar featuring with a super selection of seafood on ice. Repairs or otherwise, you’ll want to park yourself here come race weekend.

Garage, W Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Friday November 24 1:00pm to 4:00pm, Saturday November 25 12:30pm to 3:30pm, Sunday November 26, 4:00pm to 7:00pm, from Dhs700. Tel:(0)2 656 0000, wrevup.com

BB Social Dining

BB Social, Rosewood Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, Dhs350 (min. 2 diners). Tel: (0)2 236 2600, @bbabudhabi

Stars ‘N’ Bars

A well-known favourite in the capital, this casual spot with great pub-grub and an extensive draft selection alongside live bands and live sporting action is your place to be come race weekend.

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr

One of Abu Dhabi’s finest hospitality destinations has created ‘The Grand Pit Lane Brunch’, a unique experience dining experience that combines an eye-watering 145 race-themed dishes, live entertainment and complimentary pool and beach access, so you can enjoy some of the best views in the capital. Only fifteen minutes away from the racetrack, their Bridges sports bar is also ready to host you for a special post-brunch happy hour, with a buy one, get one free offer on selected beverages from 4:00pm to 8:00pm.

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Khor Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi, Saturday November 25, 1:00pm to 4:00pm, Dhs295 soft drinks, Dhs420 house drinks, Dhs595 French bubbles. Tel: (0)2 654 3333, @fairmontbabalbahr, dining.bab@fairmont.com

Pit Stop Brunch

Hickory’s at Yas Links Abu Dhabi will be hosting an exciting family-friendly Pit Stop Brunch, all weekend long from 12:30pm to 3:30pm, with an awesome al fresco dining experience. With mouth-watering choices and live cook accompanied by a live DJ and saxophonist, the vibe is just right to match the roaring engines on-track.

Hickory ‘s, Yas Links Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, November 24 to 26, 12:30pm to 3:30pm, Dhs229 soft drinks, Dhs499 house drinks, Dhs150 ages 7 to 12, 7 and under dine for free. Tel:(0)2 404 3077, @yaslinksad

Artmarket

Take a pitstop at Artmarket’s special F1 brunch offer, that includes their signature breakfast dishes combined with bottomless beverages and selected cocktails, all weekend long.

Artmarket, Yas Bay, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, November 24 to 26 9am to 1pm, from Dhs199. Tel: (0)52 917 1523. @artmarketuae

Penelope’s

This one constantly makes it on Abu Dhabi’s list of the best jazz spots to dine at, with fine French Mediterranean fare and glorious Cote D’ Azur-inspired glamour making sure there’s something for you no matter where your tastes lie.

Mika

Abu Dhabi has no dearth of Mediterranean restaurants, but that neither stops more from opening, nor the crowds from coming in to enjoy a well-celebrated cuisine, especially in this part of the world. Dynamic culinary offerings await at Mika, the perfect pairing for race-time entertainment.

Yas Acres Fan Zone

Immerse yourself in the ultimate Fan Zone experience at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, on November 25 and 26 from 3:00pm to 9:00pm, as Yas Acres will broadcast the racing action live, with fans being able to indulge in a supreme selection of food and beverage offers, as well as pool access with a live DJ.

Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, November 25 and 26, 3:00pm to 9:00pm, Dhs100 entry, Dhs120 house drinks. Tel: (0)2 208 7222, @yasacresgolfcc

Filini Garden

If Italian fare is what gets your appetite shifting into gear, Italia at Filini Garden will bring the heat with Italian Michelin-starred Chef Nicola Fossaceca at the helm of proceedings. Must-haves include the Cicoria e Cicale di Mare, Ravioli di Ricotta in Brodetto di Crostacei, and Triglia in Skapece Espresso, and live entertainment will have you entertained with a sax performance, a DJ and dancers enthralling patrons daily.

November 23 to 26, 12:30pm to 3:00am, from Dhs200. @filinigarden

Amerigos

Amerigos at the Park Inn by Radisson Blu Yas Island: Enjoy marvellous Mexican delicacies and signature creations from Chef Mario including the Arroz a la Tumbada Rombo, Barbequed Lamb Chops with Chimichurri, and Yellow Tail Hamachi Ceviche. A lively Latin duo and DJ will keep the entertainment at top levels throughout.

November 23 to 26, from Dhs325. @amerigosyasisland

Mr. Moto

This mid-century, modern Japanese speakeasy welcomes guests to drop in and enjoy beverages. A menu full of Japanese flavours and sounds from their resident DJs’ curated playlists in a cosy-setting make this one of the most exciting openings on Yas.

Trackside at the Yas Marina Circuit

A host of exciting dining options awaits trackside, as motorsport fans can look forward to several popular attractions at the Yas Marina circuit including the new Hillside Terrace, with a uniquely curated menu from The Maine Oyster bar & Grill.

If you’re at the end of the fastest section on the track, you can witness the action from the all-new Club 58, an eye in the sky with views of the circuit’s longest straight and the start-finish line at the F1 season finale in a relaxed setting. With one of the finest Greek Mediterranean restaurants in the world, estiatorio Milos, the Deck at Two is being touted as the place to be for this year’s Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023. Finally, Greek flair returns at Deck at Nine due to high demand, alongside the rooftop Luna Lounge that will have you whipping out your phones to capture its ‘grammable swing.

Diablito

Spanish flavours and terrific tapas are served hot here, as you can sit down for eats that won’t stuff you but still satiate as stunning views of the Abu Dhabi sunset and Yas Marina enchant you while you’re not busy having goosebumps courtesy of roaring engines and trackside entertainment.

Belgian Café

Dock at the Belgian Café’s Orange Zone, the only Dutch fan zone on Yas Island, and a limited-time menu with the best of European-inspired cuisine from the kitchen of Chef Christoff will have you enjoying a fantastic selection of gourmet dishes such as aged Wagyu burgers, finished off with fresh truffles, fioe gras, and wait for it…gold. You can also dine on a 265-day-aged premium meat selection and Mons cheeses.

November 23 to 26, 12:30pm to 3:00am. @bbcyasisland

Stills

Stills, at the Crowne Plaza Yas Island with an al fresco deck, live entertainment, real-time F1 coverage and a dedicated pop-up promises to bring the party. Beautiful brunch offers, barbecue pits and grills will transform the bar into a hub of fandom throughout the capital’s biggest sports and entertainment weekend of the year.

November 23 to 26, 12:00pm to 3;00am, from Dhs200. @stillsyasisland

Boroughs

To celebrate the big race wins all race weekend long, make sure to stop by Boroughs for beverages and bites that are certain to satisfy your palate. Only at Boroughs, in Yas Marina.

Boroughs, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Mon to Fri 5:00am to 10:30pm, Sat and Sun 7:00am to 10:30pm, from Dhs60.  @boroughsuae

Cipriani

Experience rich flavours and the authentic essence of Italy at Cipriani, as your race weekend experience with them begins on November 23 with a classy dinner experience. You can continue to enjoy these stunning flavours throughout the weekend, with incredible cuisine for lovely lunch and dinner options.

Cipriani, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, November 23 Dhs800, November 24 to 26 from Dhs1000. Tel: (0)2 657 5400, @ciprianiyasisland

Iris

If you were wondering when a Lebanese listing was about to show up, look no further. Beirut-based hotspot, Iris, offers an exceptional brunch experience with table service and banging beats by skilled DJs for you to enjoy.

Iris, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Mon to Sat, 6:00pm to 3:30am. Tel: (0)55 160 5636, irisabudhabi.com

Le Mezcaleria

Often referred to as the “the place that sells sunshine at night time”, Le Mezcaleria welcomes you to enjoy alluring brunch packages with them during race weekend. Dig in to a delicious selection of options from sushi to tacos, as you enjoy a captivating musical entertainment experience.

Le Mezcaleria, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 6:00pm to 3:30am daily. Tel: (0) 50 252 4640, @lemezcaleriayasisland

Café del Mar

One of Yas Bay’s most cherished waterfront venue’s, Café del Mar Beach Club, will be putting on fantastic F1 brunches on all three days of race weekend. Enjoy a poolside BBQ, free-flowing beverages, Balearic beats, captivating entertainment and an exclusive fashion show unveiling the latest designs.

Café del Mar Beach Club, Yas Bay, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Fri November 24 3:00pm to 6:00pm, Sat November 25 2:00pm to 5:00pm, Sun November 26 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Tel: (0)50 402 2283, capitalmotion.com

Ishtar

Step on the gas so you get your race weekend thrills, at Ishtar all race weekend long. An exquisite brunch with a menu inspired by North African & Middle Eastern cuisine, a live DJ set, VIP tables, and outstanding racetrack views await.

Ishtar, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Friday November 24 to Sunday November 26 12:00pm to 4:00pm, Dhs499, weekend race package Dhs1600. Tel: (0)50 402 2293, capitalmotion.com

Concerts and shows

WHITE Abu Dhabi

Get set to get wowed all weekend long, as WHITE Abu Dhabi gets set to welcome a stellar line up of performers. Kick off race weekend with one of the biggest players in the R’n’B game, as Flo Rida comes to Yas to entertain you.  On Saturday, November 25, DJ Black Coffee, a titan of the kwaito genre, will put out lively, electrifying hits blending traditional African beats and ethereal house tunes to keep the excitement at peak levels. Finally, on Sunday, November 26,  Grammy-nominated Meek Mill brings his chart-topping hits and magnetic stage presence, and you can expected tunes such as Ima Boss, Dreams and Nightmares and Bugatti on the final race day.

White Abu Dhabi, Yas Bay, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, November 24 to 26, ticket and table prices TBC. Tel: (0)50 639 8934, (0)55 836 4848, @whiteabudhabi

Yasalam After Race Concerts

Only weeks away from the final race of the season, here are the top live performances to look out for at this year’s race as part of its Yasalaam after-race concert series presented by e&. Race ticket holders, get set to get wowed and how:

Ava Max

Adored pop sensation Ava Max takes to the stage for the first concert of this year’s Yasalaam F1 After-Race concert series, the ‘Sweet but Psycho’ hitmaker having a enjoyed a meteoric rise to the top of the pop charts while selling out arenas around the globe and setting soaring records on digital. With her enormous influence and power-packed stage presence, get set to kick your musical journey off on a high note on Thursday evening.

Tiesto

EDM supremo Tiesto heads to Yas Island on Thursday night to play a beat-bathed post-race show of the weekend, and electronica lovers can look forward to brilliant beats pouring out from the deck as a superb collection of chart toppers will have you on your feet, feeling the energy from start to finish. With over 36 million albums sold, Tiesto will leave no stone unturned to make sure you leave it all on the dancefloor come Thursday evening.

Chris Brown

R’n’B stalwart Chris Brown, getting audiences on their feet time and time again with hits like Turn up the Music, With You and Gimme That will land in Abu Dhabi to wow audiences on Friday, November 24 as the second artist to grace the Yasalaam after-race concert stage. Get ready to throw your hands in the hair, bob your heads, tap your feet and sing along, because one of the biggest makers of party hits in the last 20 years is about to arrive in the capital.

Shania Twain

The newest-announced addition to the Yasalaam after-race concerts is Canada’s global country pop icon, Shania Twain. One of the music industry’s most popular trailblazers who churned out winning hits such as Party for Two and I’m Gonna Getcha Good! during her time at the top of the charts, the top-selling female country pop artist of all time brings thirty-years of hits to the after-race concert.

Foo Fighters

Seattle grunge legends, the Foo Fighters, cap off the 15^th anniversary of the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with an after-race performance in the final and most-anticipated day of a packed race weekend. Look out for stunning hits such as Best of You, Pretender and My Hero, in what will be a performance 143,000 capital-dwellers and visitors have been waiting long to witness.

As well, don’t forget to get your tickets here as more have just been released so you can enjoy the race…