Abu Dhabi; A Luxury Guide To Formula One Weekend
In the second instalment of our international travel section, we bring you the United Arab Emirates’ most up and coming cosmopolitan capital city, Abu Dhabi. Dynamic yet distinguished, the Arabian Peninsula is renowned for its dazzling diversity. Set against a backdrop of desolate deserts, the Middle East offers a kaleidoscope of luxury hotels, pristine beaches and bustling cities. Situated just a stone’s throw away from the larger and more popularly known Dubai, Abu Dhabi is a coastal gem not to be missed. With Formula One weekend kicking off on 23rd November until the 25th, discover our top things to do, places to see and be seen while you enjoy your F1 getaway.
See: Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
This massive amusement park dedicated to all things Ferrari opened on Yas Island in 2010. Nearly eight years later, the park is home to Formula Rossa, the world's fastest roller-coaster, Flying Aces, the world's tallest non-inverting loop, and the famous Ferrari driving experience. A must-see for Ferrari enthusiasts.
For more information, visit ferrariworldabudhabi.com.
Be seen: The luxury afterparty
Perhaps the most luxurious on our list of things to do is partying the weekend away aboard a 200-feet three-tier luxury yacht. In conjunction with F1 weekend, new luxury concierge company, Jet Setters Group, are offering luxury connoisseurs it’s Jet Setters F1 package which includes three-day access to the mega yacht. The package comes with a hefty price tag- Dhs50,600 (upwards of £10,500) but with Camilla Kerslake announced as UK brand ambassador, five-star service, celebrity-filled parties and delicious food from Italian eatery Cipriani on offer, where else would you choose to experience F1 over the weekend?
For more information, visit Jet Setters Group.
The hotel: Yas Hotel Abu Dhabi
The hotel is the centrepiece of Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, which is home to some of the emirate’s main tourist drawcards including Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Yas Marina and Yas Mall. Just 10 miles from the international airport and a 15- to 20-minute drive from the CBD, it’s an ideal location to rest your head over the weekend.
For more information, visit Yas Hotel Abu Dhabi.
The escape: The Empty Quarter
Arriving in the Emirate before F1 weekend kicks off? Unwind before the fun starts in the Empty Quarter. A favourite of British explorer Sir Wilfred Thesiger, the Rub Al Khali is the largest desert on the planet - a massive, largely unexplored expanse of sand. Its otherworldly, rainbow-striped dunes cross borders from the UAE into Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Oman. Head here for dune bashing, desert walks, camel trekking, falconry displays - and don't miss the stars at night.
