Abu Dhabi is gearing up for its annual Formula 1 Race Weekend at Yas Marina, and this year’s event, running from December 4-7, promises a robust calendar of dining and entertainment options alongside the on-track action. Beyond the high-speed thrills, visitors and residents can explore a diverse range of culinary experiences and nightlife venues transformed for the occasion. This year’s offerings cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets, from high-end pop-ups to vibrant bar brunches.
The festivities extend beyond the circuit, with Yas Marina becoming a central hub for celebrations. Several restaurants and bars are offering special packages, including access to viewing areas and after-race concerts. Transportation options are also being enhanced to accommodate the influx of attendees, easing access to the waterfront destination.
Dining Experiences During Abu Dhabi Race Weekend
Nobu, the globally-renowned Japanese restaurant, will establish a temporary presence at Yas Marina from December 1-7. Guests can enjoy signature dishes like Black Cod Miso and Wagyu Sliders within a space accommodating 220 patrons across indoor, outdoor, and private areas. Beverage packages range from Dh300 for soft drinks, to Dh850 for a premium house selection, and Dh1,150 for top-shelf drinks, available from Thursday to Sunday between 12pm and 4pm. The venue enforces a smart casual dress code and a 21+ age limit after 9pm.
Additionally, Club Iris at Bar Du Port is hosting a weekend event featuring international DJs, offering a lively atmosphere for brunchgoers. The brunch package is priced at Dh450 for women and AED Dh450 for men, providing both food and beverages. This venue is situated on the ground floor of Building 1 and runs from 1pm to 4pm on December 6th and 7th.
A Variety of Brunch Options
Bla Bla Bar is running brunch sessions throughout the Race Weekend, from December 4th to 7th, with tiered pricing options for different beverage preferences. Packages are available at Dh500 for house beverages, Dh750 for premium options, and Dh1,500 for a premium plus experience. DJs will enhance the ambiance on Friday and Saturday, setting the stage for an energetic weekend. The bar is located along the Yas Marina promenade.
Diablito Food & Music provides a Mediterranean-Spanish culinary experience with an à la carte menu available all weekend. A dedicated brunch service will run on Friday from 12pm to 6pm, offering options from Dh300 for soft drinks or Dh450 for premium beverages. Popular menu choices include the Senyoret Paella and San Sebastian Cheesecake. The restaurant accepts walk-ins.
Mika Restaurant, recognized with a Michelin Bib Gourmand, will offer its Riviera Brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 4pm. The five-course menu features highlights like Yellowfin Tuna Crudo and Wood-Fired Lamb Skewers, with brunch packages starting at Dh699 and reaching Dh1,199. From 7pm onwards, the restaurant transforms into La Festa Mika, offering a set menu with a minimum spend of Dh850 per person. Two DJs will provide entertainment throughout the day and evening, and a smart dress code is in effect.
For those seeking a more casual experience, Stars N’ Bars will host three-hour brunches on Friday and Saturday (1pm-4pm) focused on American and Tex-Mex cuisine. Beverage packages begin at Dh500, with premium options also available. On Sunday, the venue will offer à la carte dining alongside live race screenings on multiple screens.
Access and Style for the Formula 1 Event
Getting to and from Yas Marina is being facilitated with ride-sharing discounts. Attendees can use the code YASMARINA15 for a 15% discount on Careem rides from December 4th to 7th. Furthermore, Blacklane chauffeur service is providing automatic discounts for journeys to and from Yas Marina.
Those looking for fashion inspiration can utilize a partnership with Wear That, a regional styling platform. A dedicated Race Weekend lookbook is available at content.wearthat.me/yas-marina, and users can waive sign-up fees until December 7th using code YASMARINA25. The lookbook caters to various event settings, from yacht parties to paddock access.
The successful execution of these dining and entertainment offerings contributes significantly to Abu Dhabi’s broader tourism strategy, aiming to position the emirate as a premier global destination. While the focus remains on the thrilling motorsport competition, increased investment in ancillary events like those at Yas Marina solidifies the Race Weekend‘s appeal beyond dedicated Formula 1 fans. Future events will likely continue to expand these offerings, potentially incorporating more immersive experiences and collaborations with international brands. The long-term impact on local businesses and the hospitality sector will be closely monitored in the coming months.
