It is that time of year again when the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023 ignites the City.
Abu Dhabi Yas Marina is decked out in the classic black and white checkered flags, super yachts dock in the Marina, and the island becomes the entertainment epicentre.
One of the most popular events, aside from the race during the F1 in Abu Dhabi, has to be the after-party concert.
Before the stands fill up with excited onlookers and the engines roar around Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Circuit, read this complete guide to organise your plans throughout the weekend.
There is a wide range of F1 Abu Dhabi Events, including brunches, concerts and yacht parties, all of which book up quickly. However, there are always people selling tickets at the last minute.
The F1 weekend Abu Dhabi has an electric atmosphere from morning to night.
F1 Concert Abu Dhabi
As mentioned, many of the residents of Abu Dhabi and those flying in for the event enjoy the concerts during the Grand Prix. In fact, for some, the shows are the main event.
The Yas F1 concerts in Abu Dhabi are as follows:
- Thursday 23rd, Multi-platinum chart-breaking smash hit wonder Ava Max takes centre stage to open the Abu Dhabi F1 extravaganza. She is well known for her eye-catching performances, fashion sense and unbelievable vocals.
- Thursday, the 23rd, Dutch DJ maestro Tiesto will tear up the turntables in Etihad Park to kick off the F1 weekend. The beats will set the pace for the race.
- On Friday 24th, RnB sensation Chris Brown takes centre stage and promises to bring an electric performance as a headline act.
- On Saturday, the 25th, Shania Twain, one of the most decorated artists in country music, will bring an electric performance after the qualifying races.
- On Sunday, the 26th, fans can expect a magnificent performance from the legendary Foo Fighters once the Grand Prix Abu Dhabi champion has been crowned. What a way to finish a spectacular weekend with one of the most famous rock bands ever.
There are 4-night packages so fans can see all the artists at F1 Abu Dhabi with an option to upgrade to the Golden Circle. Benefits include fast-track entry, exclusive beverage stations and up-close action of the artists.
In addition, there are some pop up gigs including Ja Rule performing on 24 November at White. Not to mention, Claptone will deliver a performance with breathtaking vistas overlooking the F1 race track. You can catch his show on Sunday, November 26th.
Grand Prix Abu Dhabi
As the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi racers touch down in the desert, they first need to get familiar with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Circuit.
There are three rounds of practice across two days for the racers to prepare for the race. It is followed by the Abu Dhabi F1 qualifying round.
Those who qualify with the fastest times get a closer place to the start line. It provides the racers with a huge advantage in the F1 Abu Dhabi main event.
The Abu Dhabi F1 dates are as follows:
- Friday, 24th, practice one, with an Abu Dhabi GP start time at 13:30-14:30
- Friday 24th, practice two from 17:00-18:00
- Saturday, the 25th, practice three from 14:30-15:30
- Saturday 25th qualifying from 18:00-19:00
- Sunday 26th, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix race time will be from 17:00-19:00
Abu Dhabi Yas Island
With many happenings across the city, Abu Dhabi Yas Marina is one of the best spots if you were not lucky enough to secure a ticket. Geographically, it is minutes away from the F1 Circuit Abu Dhabi.
Yas Marina can be a great location to soak up the atmosphere.
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix live screenings will be available across bars and restaurants in the Marina. Brunches and vibes are served alongside the super yachts of the rich and famous.
Here is a comprehensive list of what Abu Dhabi Yas Marina offers.
Cafe Del Mar
Yas Bay comes to life on F1 race week, and the famous beach club brings several brunches to the Island throughout the weekend. Head to one of the best beach clubs in Abu Dhabi and soak up all the F1 vibes in style.
Friday 24th of November, Pitstop Late Brunch
- 3 pm to 6 pm
- BBQ food, free flow of select beverages, live entertainment
- Packages start from AED 499
Saturday, 25th of November, Fastest Lap Brunch By The Pool
- 2 pm to 5 pm
- BBQ food, free flow of select beverages, live entertainment
- Packages start from AED 499
Sunday 26th of November: Podium Brunch By The Pool
- 1 pm to 4 pm
- BBQ food, free flow of select beverages, live entertainment
- Packages start from AED 499
PH: 971-504022283
Diablitos
Diabilito’s has a newly decorated interior. Customers can expect breathtaking panoramic views of F1 Abu Dhabi as the racers whizz around the circuit.
The food on offer is Spanish cuisine and drinks. Tapas dishes make a perfect sharing experience amongst a group of people.
Opening Times: 11:00 am until 2:00 am
Offers:
- 24th November – Avail of tapas sharing style amongst friends plus one main course each and unlimited drinks for 550AED between 1 pm and 4 pm.
- 25th – 26th November – A la carte option is on offer. Soak up the race atmosphere with some delicious Mediterranean and Spanish food.
Reservations: call +971 02 5651 175 for reservations and table policies.
Mika Riviera
Yas Marina’s newest addition arrives just in time for F1. Chef Mario Loi spearheads a modern Mediterranean concept.
Friday and Saturday have fantastic offers at this new venue during the F1.
- 1 pm to 4 pm, the Mika Riviera brunch takes place and offers the perfect Yas Marina experience during F1
- Angel hour, AKA happy hour, happens between 4 pm to 6 pm for drinks and packages.
- 6 pm until late, a minimum spend is required. On offer is a chef’s selection with drinks pairing package and bottle service.
Venue to announce pricing and contact details.
Ishtar
Ishtar offers Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fusion cuisine making it an adventurous culinary journey.
The rooftop terrace gives onlookers an excellent vantage point of the F1 Abu Dhabi track. Belly dancers and a live DJ bring an authentic Arabian party to Abu Dhabi Yas Marina.
Opening Times: 1:00 pm to 2:00 am
Menu: Brunch and gourmet F&B packages
Table Policy: Brunch packages as follows:
- Friday, 24th of November, packages start from AED 499
- Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th of November packages start from AED 750
- VIP packages are available. Enquire at the venue.
- Trackside Views
- After parties
Reservations: For reservations, please call: + 971 50 402 2293 or visit https://www.capitalmotion.com/is
Iris
Iris is well known for its hip atmosphere and open-air bar overlooking the Marina. If you want a good party and to mingle with people, it’s the place to go!
The venue will have global DJs, not to mention brunch packages and table services from the 24th to the 26th—more information to come on the DJs and pricing.
Opening Times: All day
Menu: Iris brunch packages available
Reservations: For reservations and table policies, please call + 971 55 1605 636 or email reservations@irisabudhabi.com
Aioka Race Weekend
Mark your calendars for November 24th to 26th, 2023, as Aioka Race Weekend returns to Abu Dhabi. The eighth edition promises an unforgettable experience at W Abu Dhabi Yas Island.
The event features luxury entertainment in the Palm Garden, including A-list DJs and 5* international waiters.
The Official After Party on November 25th and 26th at W Abu Dhabi Lounge includes performances by Kasango and Sona.
Aioka has teamed up with Bagatelle for a rooftop fine dining party experience with DJs Dane Carter, Moojo, Alec, and Martin Solveig. Get ready for an extraordinary Abu Dhabi Race Weekend with Aioka.
Abu Dhabi Race Weekend:
Timing:
Friday 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Saturday 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Sunday 12:00 pm – late
Palm Garden W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island.
Tickets and tables: https://www.aioka.com/event-details/aioka-race-weekend-abu-dhabi
W Hotel
W Hotel is one of a kind as the F1 track weaves through the hotel making it an iconic landmark in Formula 1 Abu Dhabi.
What makes this location unique is the off-track entertainment such as brunches, pop ups and concerts are parallel to the F1 circuit Abu Dhabi.
The W Hotel will have global superstars performing making it a weekend to remember.
Garage Pink Party
Garage brings a plethora of dishes to Grand Prix Abu Dhabi with the Race Weekend brunches. The
Brunches are well synchronised with each F1 Abu Dhabi race event.
Opt for one of the four brunches while the racers tear around Yas Marina Circuit. A DJ will be on the
terrace to keep the mood upbeat with awesome tunes. Terrace tickets include access to after-race concerts.
Garage Friday 24th November 1-4 pm
Bubbles brunch: Terrace seating for AED 1,400 per person
Bubbles brunch: Indoor seating for AED 980 per person
House package brunch: Indoor seating for AED 700 per person
Garage Saturday 25th November 12:30-3:30 pm
Bubbles brunch: Terrace seating for AED 1,400 per person
Bubbles brunch: Indoor seating for AED 980 per person
House package brunch: Indoor seating for AED 700 per person
Garage Saturday 25th November 4:30-7:30 pm
Bubble brunch: Terrace seating for AED 3,500 per person
Bubbles brunch: Indoor seating for AED 980 per person
House package brunch: Indoor seating for AED 700 per person
Garage Sunday 26th November 4-7 pm with DJ Nuff Said
Bubble brunch: Terrace seating for AED 6,500 per person
Bubbles brunch: Indoor seating for AED 2,700 per person
House package brunch: Indoor seating for AED 1,800 per person
RESERVATIONS: +971 2 656 0000
Penelopes
Penelopes is a favourite in Abu Dhabi Yas Marina and an excellent spot for Formula 1. The bar brings a slice of American jazz and 1920s French Riveria.
Expect live jazz performances, French-inspired cuisine and carefully crafted beverages. Penelope’s has a host of options from the 24th to the 26th—a specially curated tasting menu, including brunch and A La Carte.
Opening Times: All day
Menu: A La Carte, tasting menu and brunch.
Pricing: Brunch AED 699 PP, tasting menu AED 899 PP, A la carte minimum spend AED 1000 PP
Reservations: For reservations, call +971 52 221 0097 or email.
Stars N Bars
Star ‘N’ Bars is an excellent location to watch the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix live on any one of its multiple LED screens. The bar has an extensive line-up of entertainment for guests throughout the race weekend.
Stars N Bars will have an epic lineup of DJs and bands throughout the weekend. On Saturday, Brunch packages and an A La Carte menu are available throughout the day, with various beverages. On Sunday, a la carte will be available only.
Opening Times: 10:00 am – late
Menu: A La Carte walk-in daily and Saturday brunch packages are available. Pre-booking is required.
Thursday 23rd of November
- 19:00-22:00 Rmnzhno
- 22:00-late Speed Wagon Band
Friday 24th Of November
- 19:00-23:00 Speed Wagon Band
- 23:00-Late Dj Jay Beats
Saturday 25th Of November
- 12:00-16:00 F1 Brunch @ AED 399
- 13:00-17:00 Speed Wagon
- 17:00-19:00 Qualifying Race
- 19:00-22:00 Ark Angelz Band
- 22:00-01:00 The Sonix Band
- 01:00-05:00 Dj Keith Dobbs
Sunday 26th of November
- 13:30-16:30 Ark Angelz Band
- 17:00-19:00 Race
- 19:00-23:00 Speed Wagon Band
- 23:00-02:00 The Sonix Band
For reservations and table policies, please call +971025650101 or email.
Cipriani Yas Island
The Venetian-influenced Cipriani restaurant boasts a delightful lunch and dinner menu. The Italian restaurant is well known for its trademark drinks.
Guests groove to a hosted Dj each evening with a view of the beautiful Marina.
Opening Times: Thursday – Sunday, from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Menu: A la carte.
Table Policy: Minimum spend as follows:
- Thursday,23rd November: All-day lunch and dinner for AED800
- Friday, 24th November: lunch from 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm for AED 1000, followed by dinner from 5:00 pm – 2:00 am for AED 1600
- Saturday, 25th November: lunch from 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm for AED 1000, followed by dinner from 5:00 pm – 2:00 am for AED 1600
- Sunday, 26th November: All-day lunch and dinner for AED 1600
Please note, that this offer refers to the price per person, and a 10% service charge applies.
Reservations: For reservations, please call: + 971 2 657 5400, or email.
Mr Moto
Tucked away in Yas Marina is the Japanese fusion restaurant Mr Moto. Japenese excellence meets American retro-ness. The contemporary concept brings a new perspective to Yas Marina. The cocktails are outstanding and food choices are unique.
From the 24th of November to November 26th a tasting menu for AED 450 is available or A La Carte with a minimum spend of AED 600 is available.
Reservations: For reservations, call: +971566037600
Ela Ela
Greek and Mediterranean dishes are served at Ela Ela. The traditional concept has cemented a reputation in the Marina for the most delicious food. Fresh pita, greek dips, olives and calamari are excellent starting choices.
Greek potatoes, chicken souvlaki with tzatziki and seabream are excellent main course choices.
From November 24th until the 26th, Ela Ela offers brunch packages starting from AED 599, a select F1 tasting menu for AED 650 and A La Carte with a minimum spend of AED 800.
Reservations: For reservations, please call: +971566037500
La Mezcaleria
La Mezcaleria dishes are internationally inspired and offer something for everyone with Mexican and Latin American dishes.
Not to mention the signature cocktails. La Mezcaleria guarantees an unforgettable F1 weekend with premium food, beverages and entertainment. Don’t forget your dancing shoes as they promise to have a fun-filled dance floor.
Brunch packages and A La Carte will be available.
Reservations: For reservations and table policies, please call + 971 55 1605 636 or email reservations@irisabudhabi.com
Exclusive Pop-Ups
- Snap an Instagram-worthy shot at the garden wall fitted with bright neon hashtags from 24th – 26th November, between Stars N Bars and Aquarium. Join in on immersive activities at the entrance and kick off a memorable visit to Yas Marina.
- Peroni Zero X Aston Martin has a radio broadcast so fans can listen to running commentary from experts discussing the racing teams’ strategies.
- Head to the whispering angles flower wall to grab an Instagrammable photo along with a non-alcoholic gin from Lyre’s.
- Ferrari prosecco will be on hand and a 1st,2nd and 3rd place podium will be on site for some memorable photo opportunities.
- This year, Yas Marina will host roaming entertainment for guests to
- A Mariachi band will hype up the crowd in the daytime with sing-along songs.
- An Origami ballerina combines dance and paper craft to create a mesmerising spectacle.
- Check out the Mystic Mymes and witness creative silent storytelling.
- As the sun sets the DXB brass band makes a comeback and creates an electric atmosphere in the nighttime
- A laser show is on Friday, Saturday and Sunday night. The Yas Marina night sky comes to life with a spellbinding display to amaze spectators.
Easy Tiger at W Hotel
One of the most loved bars in the heart of the city brings its fun-loving atmosphere in the form of a brunch to the F1 Abu Dhabi weekend.
The Easy Tiger pop-up will have a vantage point of the race track that is unrivalled. Easy Tiger has gone all out with the packages on offer. The VIP packages offer the best seats, dedicated service and access to exclusive areas.
The party vibes will be fueled by live music, DJ performances and entertainment throughout the weekend
Enjoy local and international gourmet food this F1 weekend at this eagerly anticipated pop-up. Guests can enjoy the facilities of the W Hotel at this pop-up.
Friday 24th of November 3 pm to 8 pm
Packages range from AED 599 to AED 999
Saturday 25th of November 2 pm to 7 pm
Packages range from AED 699 to AED 999
Sunday 26th of November 1 pm to 5 pm
Packages range from AED 1499 to AED 1999
After-race tickets are included in all packages.
Wet Deck
Wet Deck is one of the best rooftop pools in the city and is always a great hangout spot during the F1 weekend. Prepare for beats and poolside drinks at one of the coolest spots in W Hotel.
Angar
Embrace a fine dining Indian restaurant at Angar this Formula 1 Abu Dhabi. The award-winning restaurant is spearheaded by celebrity chef Vicky Radanani.
W Lounge
The W Lounge has hosted a number of world-renowned DJs at previous F1 weekends so keep an eye out for any announcements
Amici
Amici is an authentic Italian restaurant serving delicious Tuscan food and drinks. A special drinks menu has been curated for the F1 weekend.
Yas Plaza
Rev up your engines and get ready to indulge at eight deluxe pit stops in Yas Plaza. The chain of hotels has curated amazing dining and entertainment experiences in the island’s epicentre.
Pit stop 1 The First Turn at Amerigos Park Inn by Radisson Blu Yas Island
Latino heat hits the pit stop with Mexican food and drinks. Enjoy Jose Cuervo’s activation and on-site creations. Pork stations, lamb chops with chimichurri, agave drinks, ceviche, Latino duo acts, DJs and live performances bring all the Mexican vibes to this pit stop.
Dates: Thursday 23rd to Sunday 26th of November 12:30 pm tp 03:30 am
- Friday 24th, Mercadito evening brunch, 7 pm to 11 pm AED 325 house beverage package.
- Acapulco Day brunch on Saturday 25th November from 12:30 pm to 16:30 pm, AED 325 house beverages package.
Reservations: 97126562000
Pit stop 2- The Orange Zone at Belgian Beer Cafe-Raddison Blu Yas Island
Dutch fever hits the Belgian beer cafe. This is a dedicated fan zone for the Orange Army. The cafe has curated a limited edition menu for race week. Chef Christoff spearheads the culinary team and promises to deliver a truly authentic race week experience.
Live Djs and performances will be on hand.
Dates: Thursday 23rd to Sunday 26th of November 12:30 pm to 3am
Highlights
- Chef Christoff’s signature creations such as aged wagyu burgers, fresh truffles, foie gras, gold and a 265-day aged meat selection.
- A cheesemonger pop-up with artisan collections
Reservations: 97126562000
Pit Stop 3 The best of Italia at Filini-Raddison Blu Yas Island
Italian Michelin-starred chef Nicola Fossaceca makes a guest experince at one Abu Dhabis most loved Italian restaurants. Chef Nicola is an expert in cooking seafood and the menu is set to be an italian-seafood extrvaganza.
A Peroni Nastro Azzurro activation will be available to guests throughout the week. A sax player, dancers and a DJ will be showcasing the entertainment daily.
Dates: Thursday 23rd to Sunday 26th of November 12:30pm to 03:30am
Highlights
- Chef Nicolas a la carte menu
- The Michelin supper on Friday 24th 7-11 pm AED 400 for house beverages
- Sunset Breeze Bash 23rd to 26th 5pm-7pm.
- Special shishas
Reservations: 97126562000
Pit stop 4 Live Action at Stills- Crowne Plaza Yas Island
One of the best outdoor terraces in Abu Dhabi transforms for race week with brunches, BBQ pits, grills, Stella Artois Pop-ups and live entertainment. DJ’s, live bannds and dancers will be performing throughout the week.
Dates: Thursday 23rd to Sunday 26th of November, timings 12pm to 3 am
Highlights
- Outdoor terrace with a Stella Artois pop-up
- A la carte by Chef Krish
- Race weekend Fun Brunch on Saturday 25th of November 12:30 pm to 04:30 pm AED 325 for house packages.
- The party pack package from 23rd to 26th from 5pm tp 7pm AED 200 house beverages.
- Real-time race streaming
Reservations: 97126563000
Pit Stop 5 Grill the Grid at Blue Grill- Yas Island Rotana
The steakhouse has created a menu specially for the f1 weekend. Gourment meat cuts, poultry and seafood make apperances on the menu . The F1 excitement will be amiplifed with a Ferrari trento pop up, live entertainmet and dinner feasts.
Dates: Thursday 23rd to Sunday 26th of November, timings 12pm to 3 am
Highlights
- A la carte menu
- Ferrari bubbles bar on the terrace
Reservations: 97126564000
Pit stop 6- Dirty Drift at Y Bar, Yas Island Rotana
A fusion of South-American and Asian dishes hit the tables of Y bar to mark the special occasion The outdoor terrace will have a Hoegaarden experience creating one of the best outdoor beer gardens in Yas Island.
Dates: Thursday 23rd to Sunday 26th of November, timings 12pm to 3 am
Highlights
- South American & Asian inspired menu
- Stylish sharing concept
- Hoegaarden bar and beer garden on terrace
Reservations: 97126564000
Pit Stop 7 Curry Pit Lane at Ragnoli Yas Island Rotana
Chef Qureshi twists Indian and Westeren flavours together for some very special dishes for F1 week. Curries, traditional street food and hand-picked side dishes from various regions of India promise to deliver a top-notch culinary experience.
Laurent Perrier bar pop-up with shisha will certainly attract all the cool cats.
Dates: Thursday 23rd to Sunday 26th of November, timings 12 pm to 1 am
Highlights
- Curries & street food dishes from India with a Western twist
- Family & Sharing style menu by Chef Qureshi
- Laurent Perrier bar pop-up with shisha
Reservations: 97126564000
Pit stop 8 The Irish Vickers At Central Plaza Yas Island
The Irish are in the final pitstop and promise to fill the Yas plaza with a fun atmosphere. Large seating, a massive screen broadcasting live race footage, pub bites and world-class performers make for an epic Irish F1 experience.
Dates: Thursday 23rd to Sunday 26th of November.
Highlights
- Gourmet food and beverages
- Live race coverage
- International acts
Important Information
- Please note, that all dining outlets at the Yas Marina promenade remain open to the public for the entire duration of Race Week. Passes are not required to access the facilities.
- As demand is high, to avoid disappointment, all visitors are advised to make reservations in advance (for indoor and outdoor dining).
- Parking at Yas Marina is limited during this event. Pre-sold pricing ranges from AED 150 to AED 400. Parking is subject to availability, and daily rates apply.
- Opt for public transport such as Careem, Abu Dhabi taxi or water taxi services to avoid delays and traffic congestion. Use discount code ‘YASMARINA’ on all Careem rides to Yas Marina for a 15% discount.
- For more information on everything that is taking place during Race Week, please visit the Yas Marina website.
We hope you enjoyed reading this post about F1 Abu Dhabi events. If you have visited any of the events listed, please let us know how it was by leaving a comment below.
Disclaimer: This post about F1 events Abu Dhabi may contain affiliate links, by using them it will not cost you any extra, we will receive a small proportion of the sale to keep us writing!