ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - APRIL 08: General view of action during the Ferrari Challenge Asia Pacific 2017 race at Yas Marina Circuit on April 8, 2017 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.  (Photo by Tom Dulat/Getty Images)

Getty Images


Even if you're not in town in November for the Formula One Grand Prix, it's possible to experience Abu Dhabi's Yas Marina track year-round. For a behind the scenes look at the circuit, tours (book beforehand) take you into the grandstand, the race-control centre and the media centre.

For something more adrenaline pumping, if you fancy yourself a bit of a Lewis Hamilton you can drive the concourse at the wheel of – or as a passenger in – a Ferrari 458 GT (among several others) or go from 0km/h to 100km/h in two seconds in a dragster. Fitness buffs can also access the track three nights a week for free when it opens to runners, walkers and cyclists.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Musical Fountain

0.33 MILES

These fountains are fun for kids, particularly to cool off when hot during the day and when set to music at night.

2. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

0.92 MILES

If you want bragging rights to having 'done' Formula Rossa, the world's fastest roller coaster, visit this indoor (perfect in summer) temple of torque and…

3. Yas Beach

1.11 MILES

A surprisingly low-key corner of this high-tech island, Yas Beach is a lovely place to relax and enjoy the sea views, dabble in some water sports or…

4. Fun Works

1.33 MILES

With 6300 sq metres of bouncy buildings, rides, rooms to reconstruct, play stations and toys, this interactive play space targeted at fun learning is…

5. Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi

1.46 MILES

The world's first Warner Bros–branded theme park is a hit with kids and adults alike (DC Comics fans, we're talking to you). Spread among six 'Lands' –…

6. Aldar Headquarters

2.56 MILES

Visible from afar, this futuristic landmark building has been dubbed the 'Coin' thanks to its distinctive penny-shaped architecture. The world's first…

7. Masdar City

2.58 MILES

For architecture with a sci-fi vibe make the trip to Masdar City, near Abu Dhabi Airport, touted as the world's first zero-carbon, zero-waste city powered…

8. Arabian Saluki Centre

7.11 MILES

You'll probably hear them before you see them, as a howl goes up when a visitor approaches this hound pound. A visit here involves entering the kennels,…