2011 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix discussion

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This area is for people who are attending or planning to attend the 2011 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Island.

Use the comments below to share your thoughts on the race, where on the track you intend to watch from, how you’ll get to the track and more.

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2011 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

144 comments on “2011 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix discussion”

  1. Having shot myself in the foot in the past and taken my husband previously to Monaco for his Christmas present, I am now having to think about casting my net wider for his 50th birthday present.

    As he has expressed a wish that at some point we go to Yas, it appears I have drawn an even shorter straw than waiting to take him to Monaco until now!

    Can anyone give me any tips on how easy it is to get to the circuit from Abu Dhabi, or even Dubai? Does anyone know if there are shuttle buses to transport fans from Dubia to Abu Dhabi if we opted to stay in Dubai? Or if there is transport from Abu Dhabi to Yas on the 3 days F1 are in town. Also, if we buy a 3 day ticket, does this allow us access to the concerts/Ferrari World etc or is that extra?

    Also, whilst the circuit appears to have been designed in such a way that fans can see a large percentage of the track, has anyone any recommendations as to the best grandstand to sit in?

    1. It’s probably 90 minutes plus for the trip from Dubai. I don’t know if there are any shuttle buses doing the trip. One thing that is sure, is that there are probably 100’s of shuttle buses to take you from the car parks to and from the circuit.
      Ferrari World is only accessible by buying a separate ticket. But your race ticket will get you into the evening concerts. But be warned. Don’t take your camera to the circuit and then expect to take it into the concerts.You will not be allowed.
      West Grandstand is very good. You see the cars down the main straight, through the left right and away towards the harbour, then they reappear after coming under the hotel and go down the pit straight.

    2. I have just read your note on F1fanatic.co.uk and can help you out on a couple of the points.
      I have been to Dubai and travelled to Abu Dhabi only once but if you hire a car for about £50 for the 3 days you cant go wrong. Petrol is about 30p per ltr. YAs Island is sign posted very well on the main road from Dubai.

      I have planned my first trip for my wife’s Birthday to this Grand Prix and plan on hiring a car and driving from Dubai.

      I hope this has been on help.

      Andy

  2. Tom, Dick & Harry
    7th April 2011, 10:56

    Hi,
    My Dad and I are looking at attending our first GP this and Abu Dhabi is one of our strong possibilities.
    Tickets aren’t on sale at present, but I was wondering if anyone can give me a ballpark figure of what they cost last year?
    Also, being that the track is situated in a marina complex, my assumption is that general admission standing tickets don’t exist for this race and that one is restricted to viewing the action from the grandstand seats rather than being able to stand at random areas in the way one could at Silverstone or Spa for instance.
    Could anyone tell me if these assumptions are correct?

    Thanks in advance for any help!

  3. Nick In Dubai
    7th April 2011, 11:20

    Hi Tom,

    From memory the earlybird tickets last year were about 1,200-1,300 Dhs (about 200-220 GBP)

    I think they then went up to 30% more after the end of July

    All the grandstand seats were that price regardless of location (hospitality seats are more)

    And you are correct, there are no gerneral admission viewing areas, you have to buy a seat (although the grandstands do have viewing terraces at each end if you want to get out of your seat)

  4. Hi,

    I went to the 2009 Abu Dhabi GP.

    – There are shuttle buses from the centre of Abu Dhabi, from the water front (corniche) close to the Abu Dhabi Hilton.

    – Any of the grand stands are easily accessible, for the F1 I viewed the race from the south grandstand, for the OZ V8 Supercars I viewed it from the West Grandstand. Both had excellent viewing of the track, however I would choose the South Grandstand over the West…

    – From Dubai by car – 60mins, From Abu Dhabi by car – 25mins. The road (motorway) from Abu Dhabi is about 6 lanes with hardly any traffic on it, even for the GP it was still light traffic compared to the UK.

    – I purchased a 3 day ticket for the 2009 GP, however there was a 4th ticket in the envelope I received. This ticket was a pit walk on the Thursday, a chance to see the teams practice pit stops and spot some drivers up close. (this was a great surprise as it didn’t cost any extra!)

    Yas Island has great facilities, Beer tents (although behind closed doors for obvious reasons), cooling off areas, stewards handing out free water bottles, fully covered grandstands…

    Thanks

  5. Tom, Dick & Harry
    7th April 2011, 13:26

    Thanks for your quick and informative replies, guys!
    If the prices are around the same as what you’ve said Nick, this sounds agreeable. My Dad knows a couple who live in Dubai, so if we can stay with them, that will save a few pounds too!

  6. Hi Has anyone booked F1 via bookf1.com ?

    1. Yes we have used them to buy tickets for a couple of races.

      1. Hi Caroline

        Thanks very much

  7. Chris Ridehalgh
    28th April 2011, 17:54

    Hi All

    Wheres the best place to party on the Saturday and Sunday evening at the 2011 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix? or is there nowhere to party??? Ive heard of the Amber Lounge, but at £600 at ticket, its quite expensive!! Has anyone been seated in the main grandstand?? if so, any good??

    Thoughts appreciated.

    Chris

  8. Matt Walker
    8th May 2011, 17:38

    Hi,

    I am planning to go this year, do you know how much a taxi will be from downtown Abu Dhabi to Yas Island? Also what is the best way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

    M Walker

    1. Matt,

      I’ve been to the last two Abu Dhabi GPs and am going this year. There is no need for a taxi from downtown to the circuit as there are a number of free buses, the main two being at Abu Dhabi Mall and Sports City (Sports City is closer to the circuit). Taxis are very cheap in all of the middle east and I would recommend getting a taxi and wouldn’t expect to pay any more than about Dhms 120 – 150 (approx. £20 – £25).

      Hope this helps.

      Col

      1. Where is sports City and how long does bus take to get there?

  9. Just booked flight and hotel for Abu Dhabi with my Dad, just after general advice?
    -Getting from Abu Dhabi to Yas Island circuit, I’ve heard mention of shuttle buses, anyone know the cost and how busy is it on race day?
    -Not booked tickets for race yet, which stand is best, do you see a lot on Start/Finish straight?
    – I have read that cameras aren’t allowed to the concert/after party? Why is this, obviously want to take it to the grand prix so what would you do?

    Any tips appreciated, Thanks!

    1. Hi Gav,

      From experience of last two years…

      – Shuttle buses are free and go on a very regular basis from three separate places but if you’re staying in Abu Dhabi then you’re best with Sports City and Abu Dhabi Mall (Other one is between airport and Yas Island but should tell you directions when you get your tickets)

      – I have had tickets in both North and South stand… North stand is convenient for concerts but nothing else there, and no beer tents!!!!, also only one side offers shade all day long because so you could end up a bit sunburnt. South stand is very good as you see them coming down past the support paddock and into a couple of chicanes so you see them for quite a while. No race day experience of start/finish but from what I’ve seen on pit walk you don’t see too much.

      – SLR and D-SLR cameras are not allowed (or anything that resembles a D-SLR) but small compacts are allowed. This is something that is put in place by the concert organisers. If you have one of the cameras above there are ‘camera cloakrooms’ you can leave them whilst you attend the concerts.

      Hope this helps but feel free to ask any other questions.

      Col

  10. Hi Gav,
    I was there for 2010 GP, 3 day ticket plus Thursday pitlane walk. On the Thursday there were no shuttle buses but free water was available inside the circuit.
    Fri, Sat, & Sun shuttle buses run every 15mins from Abu Dhabi but, although it had been advertised, they were with drawn from running to Dubai. Free water was not available Fri-Sun but a plentiful supply to buy.
    We stayed in Dubai for 3 nights, hotel was great but congestion getting back made it a long trip. The following 3 nights we stayed at the Centro on Yas Island which was great as we could pop back from the circuit any time we wanted. Sadly the cost for one night this year is more than the total cost last year so we are staying in Abu Dhabi.
    We booked out tickets through bookF1.com both last and this year, efficient good service and prices are slightly less than last year though early booking discount has now ended so price for 2 X 3 day tickets is £684.
    Admission to all the evening concerts is included with the 3 day tickets.
    We had a wonderful time last year and looking forward to November, have a great time.

    1. Hi Dot

      We are looking at options at the moment. Is there any location in Abu Dhabi that is better to access the shuttle buses? Looking at the Etihad package but may be that it is cheaper for us to do it ourselves if shuttle buses are free.

      1. Caroline

        There are a couple of locations in Abu dhabi where the shuttles run from – we got ours from the main sports complex/stadium and the hotel then ran a shuttle to the stadium. Doesn’t really matter where you stay in the city as taxis are inexpensive and will get you to the shuttle pick up zones. Shuttles are frequent and free …. Also run after the concerts each evening which again are free.

        There is a large f1 zone on the main beach/corniche which also had concerts each evening.

        David
        David

  11. Ps Shuttle buses were free last year on production of your circuit entry ticket and run until the end of the concerts.

    1. If you fly with Etihad into Abu Dhabi Int, keep hold of your boarding pass as they provide free transfer buses to both down-town Abu Dhabi and Dubai and you will get return transport on production of your outward bound boarding pass, we have used it a number of times. Is anyone booked to stay at Yas Rotana, Yas Island via Laterooms or Asia rooms .com?

  12. Thanks for your tips and advice. Booked flights with Etihad, hotel in Abu Dhabi and tickets all with F1.com.

    Thanks for your help.

    Gav

  13. Does anybody know who will be performing at the concerts this year?

    Can you visit the concerts with a 2 day ticket?

    Cheers

    Jay

    1. Have you heard any rumours about concerts yet? I can’t find out anything!

  14. Hi Jay,

    I looked yesterday and the support races and times have been published on the Yas site but it says to check again for concert line-up at the end of August. From memory we found out in September last year.

    Race goers can attend concerts in the evening by presenting that days ticket so as I presume you have Sat/Sun tickets you will be able to attend those.

    There will also be free concerts some evenings on the corniche, Abu Dhabi. Hope that helps.

    Dot.

  15. Dot!

    Thanks very much for this! Are the event details to be posted on the Yas site when they do finally announce the line up?

    Yes, Sat/Sun tickets in the North Stand.

    Just hoping the title isn’t already decided by then!

    Jay

  16. Hey all!

    Another quick question regarding tickets. I have purchased through the official F1 website, f1.com, which then goes through WWTE. We have not been given tickets per say rather vouchers which have to be presented to redeem tickets. However it says the tickets are to be redeemed at a location which is to later be announced. I have searched the web and this appears to be at the ticket office next to the Etihad headquarters near Abu Dhabi International airport.

    Is this the case with all ticket buyers or just the select few who book via F1.com? Also, I have noticed that a selection of other ticket sites offer allocated seating, we have yet to receive any seating numbers. Does this mean we will not receive an allocated ticket and have to fight for a spot?

    Any help would be really appreciated!

    Thanks

  17. Hi Jason,

    I book through bookF1.com and they send out the actual tickets by registered 1st class post about 2 weeks prior to the event. The tickets are plastic (like a credit card), one for each day and have to be scanned to get you in. On the reverse is your grandstand, row and seat number. Organisation at AUD is excellent and all tickets have seat numbers so you wont be fighting for a seat.

    People with the vouchers were given two placed to exchange for tickets last year, one in central Abu Dhabi and the other by the airport.

    They are very proud to have the GP and go out of their way to make everything easy so don’t worry and enjoy the event. It will be late October before I get my tickets but looking at last years still gives me a thrill.

    Hope that helps,
    Kind regards,
    Dot.

  18. Hi Dot

    Thanks for your help!

    It looks as though we have to collect ours locally. No problem there, just wanted to know if we could chose our seat locations. Im guessing not.

    Thanks again!

    Jason

  19. Could some one please advise me on what time the qaulifying on the saturday starts and the main race starts on the Sunday please?

    This will be my first trip to a Grand Prix and not sure what time we should be there. I have had a look on http://www.yasmarinacircuit.com/en/Events_Detail.aspx?gid=13 but no times are displayed as of yet. I am planning on landing in Dubai on Firday night but would like to take my wife for a ride around and do some sight seeing before driving across to Abu Dhabi on the Saturday.

    Thanks

    Andy

  20. Hi Andy,

    Free practice 3 starts at 14.00 hrs local time and qualifying at 17.00. The race starts at 17.00 but the drivers parade is around 15.30. There are also support races each day but as it should be warm and sunny its also a good time for sight seeing. The concerts started at 21.00 last year but names won’t be published until the end of August.

    Have a great time,
    Best wishes,
    Dot.

  21. Hi all.

    I’ve got my tickets booked (woo hoo!) but the prospect of sitting in the same seat for FP, Quali and the Race isn’t one I’m looking forward to. I’d like to mix it up a wee bit and also have some variety in my pictures, SO would any one be willing to swop seats for one or two of the sessions?

    My ticket is for the Marina Stand, near turn 11, with good views of turns 15 to 17 and the hotel (which should make for good pictures in the sessions which are closer to dusk).

  22. Hi Jason,

    Yes they will be posted on the Yas site, I am keeping an eye out and will also post on here.

    Best wishes,
    Dot.

  23. Hi GeeMac,

    We had seats in “Pit support” last year, now called Marina, great seats and you can see more than you think. They say tickets non transferable but having looked at mine just now they do not have names on them, also I have 3 of mine and one of my partners ( seat number different ) so it should be ok. We have tickets for “Main” this year and I would be happy to swap seats for one of the Friday practice sessions but must confirm with my partner who is off shore at the moment and comms down due to bad weather. Where are you staying? We could perhaps swap emails?

    Dot.

    1. Thanks Dot,the seats do look good, I ‘d just like to see the track from a different place for one of the sessions. Happy to swop emails.

  24. Hi I have booked 3 day tickets for west grandstand for myself and my mum does anyone know if you still have access on Thursday as it doesn’t say on the f1 website. Also we would be willing to swap seats for a practice too. Has anyone attended the party at Amber Lounge as we were thinking of byuing tickets also a bit unsure what the best website is to get them from if anyone can help.
    Thanks
    leanne.

  25. Hi Leanne,

    I have never been to the Amber lounge, though it appears the best place to get near all the celebs. Below you will be able to see the packages on offer, looks to be 650 euros Fri & Sat evening and 800 Sunday for individual passes, unlimited drinks, dining another 350 euro’s per person. If you do go, please let us all know about the experience. Have a great time.
    Dot
    http://www.selectmotorracing.com/F1_Tickets/AL_AbuDhabi_PP.htm

  26. Hi Leanne,
    I have just looked on bookF1.com , I always get my GP tickets through them and they are a tried and trusted site, they also have Amber lounge tickets £581 to £785 for individual tickets.
    Go to the site, click Abu Dhabi GP then go to vip and hospitality.
    Hope that helps,
    Best wishes,
    Dot

  27. Hi Leanne

    We are in the same predicament! Three of us are going to go Amber lounge, it will be class.. Free champagne!!

    Not been before, but I’m sure it’s the place to be!

  28. Hi GeeMac,

    Just spoken to partner, weather dire but at least he understood me and said its ok for me to arrange so if you want a practice session on Friday in main GS, please can I have copies of pictures?, email me at and I will have to do this with spaces as we are not allowed to give them out, so its my namw (as you see it) with a hyphen between christian and surname, then the usual at, followed by talk talk dot net.
    Look forward to hearing from you,
    Dot

    By the way folks have you all signed the e petition to keep F1 free to view in the UK?

    1. Thanks Dot, just realised there may be a problem with this arrangement, I only have one 3 day ticket. I’m guessing that you and your partner wouldn’t want to be sitting at opposite ends of the track during the sessions! Thanks for taking the time to look into this though!

      1. Hi GeeMac,

        Don’t worry, if its Friday then I am happy to miss a practice session and sit by the pool for a couple of hours and leave you men to get me lots of great pictures whilst I enjoy the sunshine. So if thats ok with you, let me know.

  29. Where do I sign for the e petition ?

    I am really looking forward to the Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi.
    Has everyone got accomodation sorted out ok?

    I stayed in the crowne plaza, just across from the track, a few weeks ago. I wish I could of got in there for the race weekend.

    Does anyone know what the car aprking is like as we have hired a car and will be driving from Dubai on the Saturday morning.

    Andy

    1. Hey Andy,

      There is plenty of car parking but its a bit of a walk from the track (especially if its hot). Getting a space won’t be a problem but getting out at the end of the race/concerts can be a complete nightmare as the layout is not the best for moving cars out of the area. I live a ten minute drive from the track and it took us over an hour and a half for a round trip last year. Your probably better off taking advantage of a shuttle bus as it is far less hassle.

  30. If this gets taken down then follow what I put for GeeMac, lets hope it get ignored and others see it,
    epetitions.direct.gov.uk then put keep F1 free to Air in the search box, you fill in your details and they send you an email, when it arrives, click on link and again click ” sign petition”, next page will tell you your signature has been added. Face book and twitter to follow what is happening,go to relevant site and search keep f1 on bbc, you will understand why I have put it this way.
    Please get all your friends to sign as well, even non F1 fans are not happy,

    As for parking, last year a permit to park on Yas Island was issued with every set of tickets for 3 persons, if there is only 2 of you then it might be park and ride.
    Thank you Andy H
    Dot

  31. Lynne

    Thats a great help,Thanks

    I think we’ll find the hotel and park the car then hop on the shuttle bus or even get a cab on to the island.

    Thanks Again

    Andy

  32. Is it possible to get a ticket just for Friday to the Abu Dhabi F1? Unfortunately won’t be there for the full weekend.

    Justin

  33. Hi,

    Is it possible to get a ticket just for Friday to the Abu Dhabi F1? Unfortunately won’t be there for the full weekend.

    Justin

    1. Hi Justin,

      Tickets for the GP are either 3 day (Fri, Sat, Sun) or 2 day (Sat,Sun) so your only way is if someone with a 3 day ticket is not going to use their Friday ticket. Quite a lot of people with 3 day tickets do the pit lane walk on the Thursday (included with 3 day tickets) miss Friday to see the sites then attend Sat and Sunday. Where are you staying?, if one of the Yas Island hotels, as mainly race goers, it would be worth asking around.

  34. Hi,

    I’m flying in to Sharjah in November so I thought I’d watch the GP. I just wanted to confirm whether transport from Yas to AUH is available. Plus, as I don’t really have a place to stay in AUH, any advice as to the best way to manage?

    Thanks in advance.

    1. Hi Zain,

      As Sharjah is about 170 Km from Abu Dhabi is might be quite a trek travelling daily so might be worth booking a hotel. It would appear that most of the hotels on Yas Island are now fully booked but buses run from the circuit to Abu Dhabi through out the race weekend and are free on production of your race ticket. It might also be worth noting that we met people last year that had gone hoping to buy tickets there but as it had been sold out some weeks before, they were not able to attend, I would therefore purchase your tickets as soon as possible. Hope that helps.

      1. Thanks Dot!

        I’ll probably book my ticket in a couple of weeks and look into cheap accommodation in AUH as the F1 ticket will set me back quite a bit.

        Do the buses run after the post-race concerts? Wouldn’t want to miss those!

        1. Yes they do, its been amazingly well organized the last 2 years, have a great time.I will also be there.
          Best Wishes,
          Dot

  35. Hi I am so excited as my husband has agreed that we should go to Abu Dhabi this year for the Grand Prix. The only problem is that we have NEVER been to one before and I wonder if I am booking with the right people etc. We were looking at the F1 website and these appear to be the best so far. I have spoken to their operative and have been advised that transfers are not included. I have noticed that everyone has said that transfers to and from the track are available from the centre but I wondered if these are from fixed points in Abu Dhabi???? We are looking at hotels on the beach as we are staying for a few days….any advice is greatly received….thanks

    1. Hi Kay

      Not sure if it is of any help, but we have booked via Etihad who offer a full package which includes flights, hotel, transfers, tickets etc. We are normally self sufficient when booking for other races but were not sure of the logistics etc for this one hence the reason we opted to go with them. Plus as it is for my birthday my husband decided it was unfair to let me do all the leg work!

      Caroline

      1. Hi Caroline, sorry about the very late reply….thank you fir the advice. We have only just decided to gon so I have sent off to etihad. Thanks again

  36. Hi there,
    I would like to go to Abu Dhabi this year for the Grand Prix. Be honest, I didn’t understand the price of Abu Dhabi. I have been to Australia for Formula 1 racing before, but now I could not get the general admission ticket in Abu Dhabi. I think it’s quite different between each stops. Is there any way can save my budget ? Could you tell me where can I buy the cheapest ticket formula 1 in Abu Dhabi? Thanks agian. BR. David Chen

  37. Hello

    We’ve just booked our flights and tickets for this years grand prix! Its very exciting….

    This is our first non european race – we’re used to camping near the circuit, so this will be a totally different experience for us! Never having been to Abu Dhabi before, does anyone have any recommendations on the best areas to stay in Abu Dhabi. Any advice would be great!

    Thanks

    Catherine

  38. Hi All

    Any news on the concert line ups yet?

  39. Does anyone know how busy Ferrari World gets on race weekend?

    I’m planning to go either Friday or the Monday, but not sure if the fast pass line ticket is worth it? About £40 vs £85 for fast pass.

    Cheers! Jimmy

    1. Hi James
      We had a stopover in Dubai after the Singapore GP so we spent a day at Yas Island. The venue tour of the track is very good, but i guess with the race being on you won’t be able to do it, we even had 3 laps around the track in a 2 seater! (Next GP for me, i think!) However our afternoon at Ferrari World was a real waste of time and money. I can not emphasis how bad it is! The main rollercoaster does not seem to operate for 4 out of 7 days, due to annual maintenance(?!) The rest of the theme park is not worth the normal admission price, forget the fast track price. I don’t think even a die hard Ferrari fan would enjoy it. My advice, spend your hard earned cash elsewhere!

  40. For Jason, no line up of concerts announced yet, looked on Sunday, I look every few days so will post as soon as I know.

    For James, As most Gp fans leave either late Sunday or early Monday I would risk going for ordinary tickets if you do FW Monday, we were there last year (going again this year) and it was almost deserted, take a chance and save lots.
    Enjoy,
    Dot

    1. to be fair, I have 2 days to kill before heading onto Thailand after the GP so Monday could be a nice idea, then I can enjoy FP1 and FP2 on a screen somewhere Friday!

      nice one, cheers Dot

  41. Going to gp on sat sun. Never been to UAE before, what is the best way to convert currency?, in the uk before we leave or take cash and convert on arrival. We are staying near Dubai Marina, is there any shuttles or best to hire a car?

    1. John,

      The local currency is Dhirams and there are approximately 6 to the pound. There are plenty of currency places at the airport as well as cash machines but I’d take some with you if possible. If you are staying near Dubai Marina there are free buses available at Marina Mall to the circuit everyday and after the racing finishes back to the mall until about an hour after the concerts finish. Wouldn’t bother hiring a car as taxis are very cheap in the UAE.

      Hope this helps and enjoy your first trip to the UAE, you’ll love it.

      Laters,

      Col

    2. John
      I am no expert as I have only been to Dubai once before but I hired a car and drove from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. It takes around 1 hour to drive and petrol is very cheap. We land at Dubai on the Friday night and are staying locally for one night then driving over to Abu Dhabi during the course of Saturday morning.

      Hope this helps

      Andy

  42. Hi John,

    When we went last year it was advertised that shuttle buses would run from Dubai to the circuit and even stated it in the ticket info we got two weeks prior to departure, however it was with drawn, hope it is on but, just so you are aware. Its a great place to visit, use the overhead rail to visit places in Dubai and have a great time.
    Dot.

  43. I think the Ferrari Owners’ Club will have a cruise from Dubai to Yas on Friday, so people driving the same route should definitely check it out. 50+ Ferraris for sure.

  44. Beyonce confirmed Friday night. Not announced sat or sun but aerosmith rumored to be on Sunday.

    1. David- where did you hear that?- would be great to see, but cant imagine she,d do a concert when 6 months gone
      Aerosmith i,d love to see too- but sounds like a 2009 thread/re-post or something?

  45. Hi David,

    What a surprise that Beyonce, who will be at least 6 months pregnant by the time the GP is on and did the 2009 concert, as did Aerosmith by the way, but both great. There are also rumours on the internet that Britney Spears is about to sign but who knows! Yas Marina official site are saying concert line will be announced 26th Sept.

    1. Hi Dot

      What sort of time do the concerts start/finish? We are trying to work out the logistics of this from the end of free practice, qualifying and race day and the important element of food in the evening.

      Many thanks
      Caroline

      1. Hi Caroline,

        Its getting close now so I expect your doing the count down as well, I am really looking forward to is and if the weather is as fantastic as last year it will be bliss to escape the cold/rain of the UK.
        Friday practice finishes @ 18.30
        Saturday Quali starts @ 17.00 so finishes just after 18.00
        Sunday race starts @ 17.00 so should, if no red flags, end around 19.30.
        Factor in time to leave the circuit, very efficient last year, so about 15-20 mins. Concerts started @ 21.00 last year and hopefully more efficient at getting people in and out this year, remember that if you have an SLR camera, you will have to check it in to the “safe keeping room”, as not allowed into the concerts.
        The Yas Hotel is out of bounds unless staying there but there are 5 hotels next to each other and the Raddison on the other side, all have a number of dining options and a 5 minute walk from the support pit entrance. If you are going back to Abu Dhabi to eat, journey time might be longer after the race. Concerts finish around midnight and the shuttle buses continue until people who attend them have been taken to Abu Dhabi. Concert times have not yet been announced but they will not be much different to the above. If you want to eat at the Yas Island hotels it would be advisable to wander over in the day and book a table as all the hotels are fully booked.
        Hope that helps, have a great time,
        Best Wishes, Dot.

        1. Hi Dot

          I am indeed on countdown – cannot wait! So excited as it is my birthday present from my husband, albeit a month early! Thank you for your advice. We are planning to do some site seeing whilst we are out there as well, eg the Mosque and the sand dune safari. Any suggestions as to what else we should see – trying to pack as much in as we can as I doubt we will be going again (mind you, we said that about Monaco and are hooked now!!) Also any tips on dress codes, I know they are not as strict as some of the other countries in the region but am conscious it is going to be hot, but don’t want to offend.

          Many thanks
          Caroline

  46. Tickets arrived today :-) totally stoked and the countdown can start for real… As always there’s no news about the concerts in the ticket pack though :-( so nothing to report on that front…

    1. Hi cdowding

      Just out of interest who did you order tickets from for them to arrive today??

      Thanks

      Gav

      1. Gav,

        I ordered the tickets directly from the Yas Marina Circuit. However; living in Saudi Arabia has most probably helped with a quicker delivery time.

        Col

        1. Col,

          I ordered off F1 website, another few weeks for mine I think. Thanks for the reply!

          Gav

          1. I ordered mine direct from Yas and recieved them this morning. 2 tickets 2 day passes, 4 lanyard’s and a flashy booklet all about the course. I also got 2 car passes too which is a bonus as I wasn’t expecting them.

            Oh yeah…I live in the UK.

            Andy

  47. Concert line up announced 15 mins ago on Yasalam official web site,

    Kicking off the spate of concerts will be Spears on November 11, followed by the American Rock Band Incubus and the British Rock Band – The Cult – on day two and the event concluding with the for Beatle, Sir McCartney.”

    Other names will be announced in the coming month.

    1. I heard fat boy slim today

  48. So excited, count down started, got my tickets yesterday!

    Main, section M06, lower level, row A, 43 & 44 so right by track and no one in front of me……….

    Last year parking permits were given for three sets of tickets bought but this year we have got them for buying 2 sets so a nice surprise for people not expecting them.

  49. Hi i have booked tickets from the http://www.formula1.com website and i have got vouchers to redeem to get my tickets. Has anyone else done this and do you know where to redeem these vouchers from? On the website. it says ‘the exact location will be announced closer to the time of the race.’ Can anyone help??

    thanks

    1. Moe,

      The tickets are usually available from the Etihad Airways headquarters which is a bit out of the way so you’ll most probably need to get a taxi there.

      Hope this helps,

      Col

      1. Wheres the Etihad HQ? We’re staying in Officers Club Hotel. I think its near Sports City

  50. Hello everyone.

    Thanks for joining in here to discuss the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

    Please be aware that this discussion page will be closed after the forthcoming race.

    This is because a new group has been set up with a dedicated forum for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. I hope you will find this a useful step forward over the current system of just having a single page.

    You can already join in and add comments to the new group here:

    Going to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina

  51. Moe,

    i also purchased tickets via formula1.com. They have now updated the redemption instructions on the vouchers – tickets to be redeemed at the East Entrance Gate, before entering the circuit. If you reprint your itinerary the new instructions should be on the vouchers.
    Here’s looking forward to a great weekend,
    Andrew

    1. Hey Andy

      thanks for letting me know. I’ve just reprinted the vouchers which does actually state the location you mentioned above. So thanks for the heads up. Hope you have a brill time…Not long to go now!!!

      Moe

  52. Moe.

    where abouts are you staying and how long are you there for?

  53. Ibrahim Halawi
    18th October 2011, 1:26

    Hey guys i want to know if all the concerts will be accessible through the race tickets, Flash announced concerts in colloboration with Sky Bar and the Grand Prix but they are selling tickets for those, do i have access to the flash events or do i have to buy seperate tickets??

  54. Can anybody tell me if you can buy tickets just for the G/Prix at the circuit, as I will only be there for the day(sunday)

  55. I am going to Abu Dhabi for the Saturday and Sunday, staying in Adu Dhabi on the Saturday and the Sunday night. I dont think I’ll be staying for the concert on the Saturday night but was wondering if anyone could reccomend a decent resturant for a nice meal (not too expensive) in Abu Dhabi for the Saturday night?

    Thnaks

    Andy

  56. Hi all

    Will be staying in Dubai and visiting Sat and Sun for the qually and race – I want to taxi there and back both days – how easy is this and particularily how easy is it to get a taxi after the days events back to Dubai?

    Thanks for any help you can provide.

    J

    1. James

      my wife and I sate staying in Dubai on the Friday night but hired a car for 3 days for a grand total of £35. Taxis shouldn’t be an issue after the event but it’s quite a drag back to Dubai.

      Andy

      1. Thanks for the response. Driving is not an option as I will likely have a drink during the day. How long do you think the trip back to Dubai will be?

        Rgds

        James

        1. I would expect the journey to take between 1 and 1.5 hours each way.

          Andy

          1. I heard the same but was told to expect longer on race day.

  57. Our tickets came last week I am so excited I am almost fit to burst :-)

    Does anyone know where the shuttle buses go from in abu dhabi? The book that came with the tickets said only 2 stops which are not very close to our hotel but I’m sure I heard there were more?

    Ps I will be at Birmingham airport this time next week getting ready to board the plane.

    1. Lisa.. Where did u order your tickets from that they arrived last week.
      Which stand you sitting in?

      We’ve got West Grandstand. Hope we catch lots of sun!

      1. South stand but i’m hoping that its like silverstone where you can sit anywhere for free practise and quali. We have a TV so I hope the sun does’nt shine too much on the screen.

        Tickets were from bookF1.com

        1. We got weststand to but hope we’ll be able take a wonder around during qual. Can’t wait now.

          Friday lunch flying out of Manchester.

          Andy

          1. Great stuff Andy. We’re flying out from manchester on thursday morning. Gettin VERY excited thinkin about it!

  58. If it is like last year then security is such that you have to put each days ticket into the auto machine, move on to female or male pat down search, all handbags/bags searched, then let through. Your lanyard will indicate your grandstand and entrance gate, you will not be able to access any other viewing area. Please do not be alarmed or put off by this, we are visiting the middle east and our safety is a major concern for them.
    You will be able to wander around the F1 village, eating areas and along the numerous food/beverage areas in your grandstand but unless you have friends in other grandstands, and swap tickets, you will be unable to view from any other part of the circuit.
    Be aware you are not allowed to take your own food and drink in with you.
    Honestly its a great place to visit, I will be there again this year, everyone is helpful, polite and smiling. This is the middle east, you will have read up on the customs of do’s and don’t s, so enjoy the race and the fantastic climate. I live in Cumbria and counting the hours till I get on the plane in Manchester.

    1. Thanks for the info really useful

    2. Thanks for the infromation Dot. I hpe you enjoy the racing and the whole experiance.

      Andy

  59. Can anyone advise who is playing in the evning concerts this year at Yas Marina?

    Thanks

    1. Gav,

      The concert line ups are as follows:

      Friday – Britney Spears
      Saturday – Incubus and The Clash
      Sunday – Sir Paul McCartney

      Hope this helps.

      Col

      (6 days and counting)

    2. Cheers for that.

  60. Hi,

    Just looked at the free shuttle bus to Yas Marina and it states it’s picking up from ‘Shahama’ and ‘Zayed sports city’. I heard previous years they have picked up near the corniche. Does anyone know if they are picking up around the corniche as I am staying at that end of AD?

    Thanks

    Gav

    1. Gav,

      In 2009 there was a shuttle bus near the Corniche but, I believe, that they have changed it to just Shahama and Zayed Sports City. However; taxis in AD are dirt cheap and the Sports City isn’t too far away from the corniche. From memory I don’t recall it being any more than about 20-30 AED (£3-£5).

      Wrt the taxis in the middle east either agree to the meter beforehand or a set fare before you get in (exchange rate is about AED6 = £1). If you don’t agree a price beforehand and they don’t use the meter by law the journey is free (threaten to call the police if they do get arsey – however there is very little chance this will happen). Also, there is no shortage of taxis, the constant beeping of horns when you don’t need a taxi may get a bit annoying at times and the varieties does get quite interesting (from Toyota Camry’s to Pick Up Trucks).

      Laters,

      Col

  61. Anyone on the BA 9:40am next Thursday from Heathrow to Abu Dhabi?

    1. yep i’m on that flight, along with a mate – BA tells me the flight is completely full…..can’t wait now!

      1. Awesome! There was me thinking that the whole GP was travelling from Manchester! Haha. Well I’m travelling solo, and don’t want to sleep either as we land at 8:30pm I believe. Beers at the back!!!

  62. On the 08.55 Qatar airline from manchester.. 6 days to gooi! Wooohooooo

    1. My son is flying on Thursday with his dad and staying at somewhere called the Mirfa hotel. Anyone heard of this hotel and how far is it from the circuit?

  63. Hi everyone,

    Does anyone know how much it costs to view the race from one of the Yas Hotel balconies?

    1. Hi John,
      During the race weekend, unless you are booked to stay at the Yas Hotel, it is strictly off limits. Security is very high and even when staying at the other hotels on the island they installed xray machines last year and checked ID. The Yas Hotel costs almost £8,000 for 4 nights stay! over race weekend and drops to normal prices on Tuesday 15th, so even going in for a look around is not an option.
      Hope that helps,
      Enjoy the race,
      Dot

      1. Hi Dot

        Thanks for being so kind in answering my question and also for your extremely helpful comments!!!

  64. Fly out from Manchester EK18 Thursday 10th with my son, well he’s nearly 32 ! tickets for South Stand Sat/Sun can’t wait !!! staying in Courtyard Green Community outside Dubai, does anyone know the driving distance/time to Yas Marina from there please

    Happy Days

    1. Alec

      it’ll take you about 1hr to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

      Not long now

      Andy

  65. Flying out on Tuesday 8:50 from manchester for 10 nights staying at the Hilton abu dhabi where the Amber lounge after party is!!!!

    1. Party at yours then on Sunday night.

      Andy

  66. Hi

    Anyone have the event timetable available – the website doesnt have a start details of the support races?

    Thanks

    J

  67. One other quick question, will FanVision have a stall at the South grandstand if not how difficult is it to get from South grandstand to the F1 village where they defiantely have a stand?

    Thanks

    J

    1. James,

      If it is like last year, which I would assume it is, then there will be a FanVision stall which is located between the South Grandstand and the Support Paddock. If not it’s easy to get to the F1 village as there is a very regular bus service between the stands.

      Hope this helps,

      Col

  68. Can’t find a hotel in Abu dhabi that is affordable. Can anyone suggest anywhere. Arrive in Dubai on the 10th till the 14th. It is a big surprise for my 15 year old son, who still has no idea he’s going. Is it easy enough to get the GP from Dubai Marina area?

    1. Zen. Check out Officers Club hotel. Its not far from Yas marina. Its 5 star n very reasonable

    2. Kings gate Abu dhabi is a reasonably priced business hotel. Rates are good through hotwire.com

  69. Help! I am about to start packing – we fly on Wednesday morning out of Manchester – for ladies are t-shirts (not too revealing) and cropped trousers acceptable? Also is my husband going to be OK with shorts at the circuit or are long trousers recommended?

    1. Hiya Caroline,

      With regards to what is suitable to wear the Emirates is a lot more relaxed than some other GCC countries, so no need to get pack an abaya lol. Anyway, as a general rule of thumb please see below…

      Ladies – Nothing revealing at all i.e. bikin tops, daisy dukes shorts, low cut tops. So your suggestion of tee and cropped trouser will be fine.

      Blokes – Shorts and tee are fine however, as a general rule I would avoid short shorts. I would only advise your husband to wear trousers if he can deal with the heat and humidity. Despite the fact that it’s November it will still be very hot and humid. I have the joys of living in Riyadh and I find that the Emirates is always a lot hotter and wouldn’t think of trousers unless I was going out at night.

      Hope this helps.

      Col

  70. Hi Caroline,
    We are on same flight if your going with Etihad, we were there last year and both wore knee length shorts, as did most of the other F1 fans. Going to be a great weekend, we are on FLT EYE16, count down started, soooo excited.
    Dot

    1. Hi Dot

      That’s the one! Spent yesterday watching the clips on YouTube that people had posted for the grandstand we are in – South Upper – very excited now.

      Caroline

  71. Folks, does anyone know where I can find the programme of events for this weekend? I don’t want to miss any of the action, including any of the support races (GP2, Porsche Supercup etc). I’ve got the F1 session times, but not any of the support info.

    Thanks!

  72. Hi GeeMac, hope this helps,
    Friday

    GP2 Asia Practice 10.30 – 11.00
    Porsche Mobil1 Supercup Practice 11.30 – 12.10
    F1 FP1 13.00 – 14.30
    GP2 Asia Quali 14.55 – 15.25
    Chevrolet Supercar middle east practice 15.45 – 16.15
    F1 FP2 17.00 – 18.30

    Sat

    Chevrolet quali 09.50-10.20
    GP2 (first race) 11.00-12.20
    Porsche quali 12.45 – 13.15
    F1 FP3 14.00 – 15.00
    Porsche first race 15.25 – 16.00
    F1 Quali 17.00

    Sunday
    Chevrolet 2nd race 12.15 – 12.45
    GP2 2nd race 13.30 – 14.20
    Porsche 2nd race 14.45 – 15.20
    Drivers track parade 15.30
    Etihad Fly past 16.48
    F1 Race 17.00

    Have a great time,
    Dot

    1. Perfect, thanks Dot!

  73. On the way to the airport hope everyone has a good weekend!!

  74. Only a few hours of work tomorrow then off to the airport for a quick hop over to AD. Man I feel like a kid at Christmas…

  75. The ‘Yas Marina circuit’ website has been updated with lots of info; including schedules of races, opening hours, autograph sessions and facilities of circuits & grandstands. Click on F1 link and open the attachments!

  76. Anyone flying from Birmingham tomorrow evening? I want to go now!

  77. I have 2 x weekend passes for sale for face value (AED1600). Seats in front row of Main Grandstand (M05-Row A) and available for collection/delivery in Dubai. Thanks.

    1. I want them. How can i get them pls?

  78. Lindsay how can i get those tickets?

    1. Hi Lindsay, how can i get those passes please?

  79. This discussion page is closed. If you want to discuss going to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix please go to the new discussion forum here: Going to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

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