What can you expect from the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix? The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit, in the UAE, is always one of the most eagerly anticipated races in the Formula 1 season. It’s one of the most exciting racetracks around, and the Grand Prix has become famous for its parties and events – often attended by A-List celebrities. It’s quite the event. We wanted to take a deeper look to discover exactly why it has become such a popular event, looking at the history of the course and some of the records that have been set there. We’ll then look at the extracurricular entertainment – the after-race concerts, the bars, restaurants and live music. Finally, we’ll look at how you can be there to witness the action in person. A brief history of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Abu Dhabi first hosted a Grand Prix in 2009 (officially it had the catchy name of The 2009 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix). It was held at night on a floodlit track at the Yas Marina Circuit and it looked spectacular. The circuit was only opened a week before the race, having cost an incredible $1.3 billion. It’s built around the Yas Hotel, and even runs through it before heading out again to the Yas Marina. The track has hosted Formula 1 races every year since 2009 – a staple of the Formula 1 calendar. Why is the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix so popular? It’s the season finale One of its biggest appeals is when the race takes place – more often or not, the Yas Marina Circuit is the host for the season finale – the final race of the season where the Formula 1 Championship can be won or lost. In 2021, it was announced that the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix would be the host for the final race of the season every year until 2030. It’s a night/day race The race in Abu Dhabi is the only Grand Prix to set off during the daytime and finish at night. The starting grid is backlit by the sunset, while the finishing line is lit up by flood lights – it’s a wonderful sight for Formula 1 fans. The pit lane exit Formula 1 fans love little quirky features of race circuits, so the pit lane exit at the Yas Marina Circuit is a hit with fans. The exit actually runs under the track, in a tunnel, before it rejoins the course on the other side. The surrounding area The track is situated on Yas Island, which itself cost over $40 billion to construct. Whether you want to go to a theme park, a water park, an adventure centre, a golf course, a beach, a gig at the Etihad Arena or go shopping at the Yas Mall – Yas Island has it all. On top of that you have countless bars and restaurants – it’s a great venue for a weekend away (and yes, you can drink alcohol). The events The after-race concerts at Yas Marina, near the North Grandstand, are the stuff of legend. Beyoncé, Paul McCartney, Britney Spears, Jay-Z, The Who, Blur – they have all performed at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Lineups that would rival Glastonbury. The perfect way to end your stay on the island after a packed weekend schedule – almost worth the trip alone! Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Key Stats Track distance: 3.281 miles (since 2021) Turns: 16 Most wins: Lewis Hamilton – 5 (the win in 2014 was worth double points) Race lap record: 1:26.103 – Max Verstappen, 2021 Capacity: 60,000