In this post, the next in our series about things to do in Abu Dhabi, we’re taking a look at Yas Island. Yas Island lies just off the coast of Abu Dhabi, about 10 minutes’ drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport. The island is in the process of being developed into a major tourist destination.
One of the main attractions on Yas Island is the Yas Marina Circuit, which was completed this year and played host to the first F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November. More than 50,000 people can watch the action at this stunning new circuit, the only motorsports venue in the world at which all the grandstands are covered.
The next Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is due to take place on the 29 – 31 October 2010, but the Yas Marina Circuit will be open all year round and will eventually include a Driving School Building, a Karting Centre, a Drag Racing Centre and a Business Park.
Two theme parks and a water park are also being constructed on Yas Island. The first of these theme parks, Ferrari World, is due to open during 2010 and will be the largest indoor theme park in the world.
There will be more than 20 rides and attractions inside Ferrari World, including the world’s fastest rollercoaster, which will reach speeds of more than 200km per hour. The park’s designers are also planning a “G-Force Experience” ride, which will take you up through the roof of the park. Other attractions at Ferrari World will include a range of restaurants and cafes serving Italian cuisine, and Ferrari World souvenir shops.
The other theme park on Yas Island will be the Middle East’s first Warner Bros. Theme Park.
Other Yas Island attractions will include Yas Mall, where you’ll find more than 500 stores, and several golf courses and marinas. There are also a number of hotels on the island and we’ll be looking at some of these in the next post in this series.
You can find out more about Abu Dhabi in previous posts in this series:
- Exploring Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi Shopping: read about some of Abu Dhabi’s malls and souks.
- Exploring Abu Dhabi – Sheikh Zayed Mosque: in this post, we take a look at Abu Dhabi’s largest mosque.
- Exploring Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi Corniche Hotels
- find some great places to stay near the Corniche. - Exploring Abu Dhabi – The Corniche: find out about Abu Dhabi’s famous seaside promenade.
- Exploring Abu Dhabi – Emirates Heritage Village: find out about this popular tourist attraction.
- Exploring Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi Overview: learn about Abu Dhabi and the other United Arab Emirates.
- Airport Guides – Abu Dhabi International Airport: information for anyone booking flights to Abu Dhabi.
Image: Nepenthes
Tags: Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi International Airport, F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros theme park Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Yas Mall, Yas Marina Circuit
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