The DSCVR Guide to the Abu Dhabi Race Weekend

Gear up for the ultimate thrill at the 2023 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking the kick-off to an exciting weekend.

The capital is abuzz with heart-pounding action—both on and off the track. The most awaited event on the UAE events calendar returns, and it has pulled out all the stops—from after-race concerts and the biggest names in the nightlife industry to premium hospitality offerings and F&B pop-ups from the restaurateur bigwigs. And we’ve curated a guide to the best; so you won’t miss a beat of this high-octane experience!

Trackside Experiences

The 2023 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, held at Yas Marina Circuit from November 24-26, marks the final round of the Formula 1 season. While Max Verstappen has secured the championship, the night race in Abu Dhabi, starting at sunset and ending under floodlights, promises a unique spectacle and an array of off-track activities, including exploring the luxurious lifestyle.

The race weekend also features Formula 4 UAE and Formula 2 races. The Formula 2 championship will be decided, with Théo Pourchaire leading the standings, closely followed by Frederik Vesti and Ayumu Iwasa.

The race weekend promises abundant on-track action, including the traditional public pit-lane walk on Thursday and a team and driver Q&A in the F1 Fanzone behind the Main Grandstand.

Additionally, this year will feature demonstration laps from a historic car set for auction as part of a special Bonhams’ Auction. The YasHub app and Yas Pay cashless payment option enhance the spectator experience.

For ticket holders, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix experience extends beyond the race itself, unlocking access to Yas Island’s theme parks (Ferrari World, Yas Water World, Warner Bros. World, and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi), Louvre Abu Dhabi and Qasr Al Watan. Attendees can also recharge at Yas Beach with complimentary admission and a 15% discount on food and beverages by presenting their ticket from November 22 to 27.

Unparalleled Trackside Hospitality

Indulge in the premium hospitality experiences at Yas Marina Circuit, featuring exquisite gourmet cuisine from renowned establishments such as The Maine, Gohan & Ninive for five-star dining, Roka’s exquisite Japanese cuisine, and fine dining options by Hakkasan, Milos and Nobu.

OPA! provides a unique blend of fine dining and entertainment, while CÉ LA VI presents award-winning cuisine in addition to the masked DJ Claptone, setting the tone for a spectacular weekend.

New Restaurants to Try

Yas Marina, just a short stroll from the circuit, unveils three exciting new venues. Éla Éla, a recently opened Greek fine dining spot, invites guests on a Mediterranean journey with its homage to Cretan cuisine, operating from 5pm to midnight.

Mika, specialising in Mediterranean fare, boasts a diverse menu and an open kitchen in a warm and elegant setting. Meanwhile, Mr Moto reshapes the Japanese culinary scene with an extraordinary menu and crafted cocktails, open from 5pm to 2am, promising a harmonious dining atmosphere with DJs setting the mood.

The Not to be Missed Brunches

The B.I.G Race Weekend Brunch at Garage offers the perfect blend of high-octane excitement and gourmet delights. Book one of the four B.I.G Brunches, perfectly timed for each race session, and receive a complimentary ticket to the Yasalam After-Race Concert.

Penelope’s Brasserie & Jazz Bar Américain offers an elevated culinary experience with two exclusive gourmet options during the F1 weekend. Guests can enjoy a lavish brunch from Friday to Sunday, priced at AED 699 (house beverages) or AED 899 (premium beverages), with a champagne package available at AED 1,299. In the evening, racing enthusiasts can savour the F1 Tasting Menu, a two-hour gastronomic experience featuring signature dishes, priced at AED 850 per person and available throughout the weekend.

For a family-friendly affair, the Pit Stop Brunch at Hickory’s, Yas Links Abu Dhabi, is a weekend-long event featuring al fresco dining from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. With mouth-watering choices, live cooking, and the accompaniment of a DJ and saxophonist, it provides a lively atmosphere to complement the on-track action. Prices start at Dhs229 for soft drinks, Dhs499 for house drinks, and Dhs150 for ages 7 to 12, with children aged 7 and under dining for free.

Dining Favourites on the Bucket List

Don’t miss the return of Carna by Dario Cecchini, a pop-up by SLS Dubai’s contemporary steakhouse, offering an elevated culinary journey. The SLS Lounge from SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences promises a chic experience with a carefully curated selection of bites and drinks, creating a welcoming atmosphere for those seeking relaxation.

Explore an array of enticing dining options at Yas Marina during the race weekend, including Cipriani’s rich Italian flavours, Iris’ exceptional brunch experience with world-class DJs, La Mezcaleria’s international cuisine showcase, Penelope’s French culinary journey, and StarsnBars’ selection of American classics with live entertainment and DJs.

Not to mention a stunning pop-up dining experience by Dubai favourite MayaBay. We went to visit them to see the delicious items they will be serving during the race weekend:

Race Week Entertainment at Yas Marina

Candypants returns with its renowned trackside party, hosted on the largest mega yacht in the UAE, offering panoramic views of the circuit. With full packages covering race hospitality, concerts and after parties, attendees can choose from standard and VIP options for individual days or a three-day pass, featuring reserved seating and bottle service during the after party.

Beyond the culinary delights, Yas Marina offers a diverse array of entertainment and pop-ups during the F1 weekend. Begin the journey in Welcome Alley, where a collaboration with Peroni Zero x Aston Martin allows motorsport enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the world of Formula 1, gaining insights into the team’s strategic decisions.

Move on to the Ferrari Prosecco podium for photo opportunities, then explore Lyre’s non-alcoholic gin tasting for a unique experience. Cap off the night with a mesmerizing Laser Show on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, transforming Yas Marina into a visually stunning spectacle that lights up the night sky.

Rev up for a weekend of unparalleled nightlife

AIOKA returns for a ninth year of its iconic F1 event at Palm Garden, W Yas Island, promising a luxurious experience with top-notch entertainment. Enjoy the thrilling races and post-fireworks celebrations with ticket options ranging from AED 300 to exclusive VIP packages, including trackside tables starting from AED 5,500 and Presidential tables at AED 125,000.

Soho Beach is set to open for Grand Prix weekend, hosting two major F1 parties on Friday, November 24, and Sunday, November 26. The brand promises a lively atmosphere at its inaugural Abu Dhabi location, featuring headliners such as Italian electronic DJ Loco Dice and Ukrainian music group Artbat. Tickets are priced at Dhs150.

WHITE Abu Dhabi, the top club in the capital, is preparing to offer an unparalleled multi-sensory clubbing experience during the Race Weekend. The club unveiled an impressive lineup of internationally renowned artists, including Ja Rule on November 24 and DJ Black Coffee on November 25, with another phenomenal artist to be announced for the final race day on November 26.

Yasalam After-race Concerts

The electrifying lineup starts with Ava Max’s pop-infused performance on Thursday. Known for her chart-topping hits and distinctive style, Ava Max’s concert offers a captivating experience. Following suit, Thursday night continues to deliver excitement as electronic dance music maestro Tiësto takes the stage, guaranteeing an unforgettable night with his unparalleled stage presence.

The thrill continues on Friday with R&B sensation Chris Brown headlining the Yasalam After-Race Concert. With Grammy and Billboard Music Awards under his belt, Chris Brown promises an evening filled with pulsating hits and mesmerising dance moves.

Saturday brings country pop royalty Shania Twain, offering a high-energy night of entertainment with her iconic anthems, making the Golden Circle Upgrade a must for the closest-to-stage access. The grand finale on Sunday features the legendary Foo Fighters, bringing their world-renowned rock performances to the stage, ensuring an epic conclusion to the weekend’s festivities.

If you are still looking for tickets there are limited hospitality options available at www.abudhabigp.com, or win your way in here.

DSCVR: Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023. @abudhabigp