F1 season finale: Five things fans need to know about Yas Marina Circuit this weekend

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The Formula 1 season decider has arrived in Abu Dhabi, with fans from 105 countries descending on the UAE capital to witness what is expected to be one of the most dramatic finales in recent years. The title showdown between Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri has set the stage for a high-stakes weekend at Yas Marina Circuit.

Here are five key things visitors need to know about the venue during race weekend:

1. A circuit built for championship drama
Yas Marina Circuit is among the most technically advanced tracks in Formula 1, featuring a 1.2-kilometre straight where cars surpass 330 km/h, an underground pit-lane exit tunnel, and a fan-centric layout. It has hosted several iconic championship moments, including Sebastian Vettel’s first title win in 2010, Nico Rosberg’s emotional win-and-retire moment in 2016, and Verstappen’s last-lap title battle in 2021. As the final race of the season, the track is poised to add another historic chapter.

2. Seamless movement around the circuit
Navigating the venue has been made simple through a circular shuttle system operating throughout race weekend. Fans can move easily between main access gates, fan zones, Yas Marina, and Etihad Park for the Emirates NBD Yasalam After-Race Concerts. The Abu Dhabi GP mobile app also provides instant wayfinding tools.

3. Fans can arrive by yacht
Visitors docking at Yas Marina or staying onboard one of the moored yachts can reach the circuit using dedicated water taxis. Those on the marina vessels will have exclusive, trackside vantage points with clear visibility of several high-action sections of the circuit.

4. Hospitality, entertainment, and nightlife at scale
Purpose-built for hospitality, Yas Marina Circuit features more than 40 trackside suites integrated into its architecture, alongside the W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island hotel, which sits directly above Sector 3. Unlike circuits that retrofit hospitality offerings, Yas Marina was designed from inception as an entertainment destination.

New this year is 360 at Sixteen, an elevated multi-level open-air lounge above Turn 16. Returning favourites include Deck at Two featuring Dani García’s LEÑA, Deck at Nine with OPA’s Greek-inspired menu, and Luna Lounge by Cé La Vi. The circuit’s unique podium placement also turns post-race celebrations into a large-scale, visible trackside party.

5. One ticket unlocks experiences across the venue
All ticket holders gain access to multiple on- and off-track experiences. Family Fridays allow free entry for children, offering interactive racing activities, roaming performers, and entertainment zones. Fans can also upgrade their access to premium grandstands and fan zones.

Every attendee also receives entry to the Emirates NBD Yasalam After-Race Concerts, which bring global performers to the heart of race weekend.

Beyond the finale, Yas Marina Circuit operates year-round, offering public driving programmes, karting, drag racing, guided tours, community fitness activities, and motorsport events.

For the latest updates and timings, fans are advised to check the Abu Dhabi GP app.