Your ultimate guide for a weekend in Yas Island
The jewel in the crown of Abu Dhabi, Yas Island is much more than just the venue for the Grand Prix each year; opulent hotels, thrilling theme parks, top-notch dining options, a massive mall, and multiple leisure activities are at your disposal in this man-made island.
Approximately 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi, this unique island is a haven of enjoyment that welcomes people of all ages and preferences. It has become a prominent destination for tourists and locals alike, providing a mix of entertainment, leisure, and luxury experiences.
Let’s dive into all that you can find and do at Yas Island.
Tantalizing Theme Parks
World-renowned and record breaking theme parks are situated on Yas Island. The world’s fastest rollercoaster in Ferrari World, Award-winning free drop slides in Yas Waterworld, immersive realms at Seaworld, and a fictional world is brought to life at Warner Bros. No matter your age or adventure preference, you are sure to have the time of your life at these top destinations.
You can visit all of these in 14 days by purchasing a 4-park ticket.
Yas Marina Circuit
Home to the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, feed your need for speed by getting behind the wheel of a supercar, drifting, dragging, and go-karting around the circuit. Motorsport enthusiasts gather around for this is your time to shine.
Yas Links Golf Course
The first real links golf course in the Middle East and the new venue for the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, Yas Links is the place to be. Situated on the water’s edge with breathtaking vistas of the Arabian Gulf, the 18-hole championship course draws seasoned golfers from across the world, while the practice areas and 9-hole par-3 course are perfect for players of all skill levels.
CLYMB Yas Island
At CLYMB Abu Dhabi, the ultimate quest begins, which is redefining indoor skydiving and rock climbing, soaring to new heights. Flyers and climbers can conquer two world-record-breaking experiences all under one space-age roof, which also houses the region’s tallest indoor climbing wall and the widest indoor skydiving flight chamber in the world.
Leisure Activities
Continuously being on your feet can get tiring right? Lounge at the Yas Bay and sip cocktails while overlooking the sparkling Arabian Gulf or work on your tan on the Yas Beach. There are even luxury yachts offering Spanish delicacies and sailing through the sunset at UAE’s best dock- Yas Marina.
Go on a shopping spree at the largest mall on Yas Island, the three-floor Yas Mall decked with international and local brands, 56 eateries and entertainment zones for kids and adults alike.
Affluent Accommodations
Want to visit all the promised adventures on Yas Island but fear the long commute? Stay at one of the 45 hotels situated in close proximity to the parks and don’t stop the fun. A range of hotels and resorts catering to all different preferences and budgets, depending on the exact location your room may have stunning views of the Marina Circuit or overlook the shimmering water.
Fun fact: If you’re staying at any of Yas Island hotels, you can enjoy the free Yas Express shuttle service connecting all main attractions through designated bus stops. Before boarding just show your E-ticket and you’re good to go. You can check the schedule here
Dining and Nightlife
Think of a cuisine, then a type of dining option, and finally the kind of experience you are seeking, and boom! There is one available on Yas Island. 49 carefully designed restaurants and bars offer a wide range of cocktails, live music, and not to forget the best food of your life.
Eid Celebrations Are In Full Force
Kids go free this summer! 2 children under the age of 12 who are accompanied by 2 paying adults may now stay for free in the same room that was reserved with the parents, enjoy unlimited free play at Yas Island’s record-breaking amusement parks, and eat for free on the same hotel meal plan as the parents from 1 June to 30 September.
How To Get There
Yas Island is conveniently located only 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, 25 minutes from Abu Dhabi, and 45 minutes from Dubai by taxi.
Once on the island, you can take up the shuttle bus service to get around different locations. You can check the schedule here
An explorer at heart and a wordsmith by profession, discovered early on that her joys were found in blending the themes of travel and storytelling. With a background in creative writing and a passion for culture, she takes you to the soul of the destination. Join her as she spins tales of curious cultures for curious minds.