Abu Dhabi event weekends: what to do between sessions

The UAE's capital: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi and Yas Island's theme parks next to the circuit.

Events we cover in Abu Dhabi

Arriving

Zayed International (AUH) is 15 minutes from Yas Island and 30 minutes from the city. Dubai airport is 1 hour 15 minutes away.

Where to stay

Three hotels we would book

• Budget: Ibis Abu Dhabi Gate
• Mid-range: Yas Island Rotana
• Splurge: W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island

Event weekends sell out early and prices rise as the date gets closer: book a cancellable room as soon as you know you are going.

Tours

Where to eat

• Al Fanar Emirati dishes
• Yas Bay Waterfront Restaurants by the arena
• Mina Fish Market Pick and cook

With kids

• SeaWorld Yas Island.
• Warner Bros World.

Rainy-day backups

• Louvre Abu Dhabi.
• Qasr Al Watan.

Free things to do

• Corniche beach.
• Qasr Al Watan exterior.

Getting around

• Free race-day shuttles on Yas; Uber and taxis elsewhere.
• Uber and Careem work across the Gulf and are the easiest way around.
• Dress modestly in malls, souks and religious sites; beach clubs and hotels are relaxed.
• Check current travel advisories for the region before travelling and keep bookings flexible.