Abu Dhabi Grand Prix · 2026-12-06
Race weekends sell out fast. Here's where to stay near Yas Marina Circuit — from party-central neighbourhoods to quieter spots with easy transport links.
Yas Island puts you 5 minutes from the circuit gate, Downtown Abu Dhabi gives you the city experience at better rates, and Dubai is the budget-smart choice for fans who don't mind the 90-minute transfer.
Yas Island is purpose-built for events and the only place to walk to the circuit. The W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, Yas Viceroy (which literally straddles the back straight), and Crowne Plaza Yas Island are the top-tier options, all within a 10-minute walk of Gate 1. Expect race-weekend rates of AED 2,500–6,000 (≈ USD 680–1,630) per night — book 4–6 months out or pay premium for last-minute availability. Staybridge Suites Yas Island offers apartment-style rooms at AED 1,200–1,800 per night and is excellent for groups of 3–4 splitting costs.
The Corniche and Downtown district sit 25–30km from the circuit. A Careem ride runs AED 50–80 each way (≈ USD 14–22), or the F1 Park & Ride shuttle operates from ADNEC at AED 25 return. Hotels like the Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Le Royal Méridien, and Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche run AED 900–2,200 per night during race week — 40–60% less than Yas Island equivalents. You gain access to the city's best restaurants, the Corniche waterfront, and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque without the Yas Island crowds.
Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai hotels run AED 600–1,500 per night on race weekend. The drive to Yas Island is 90–120 minutes depending on traffic — budget 2 hours for Sunday race day. Many fans base themselves here for the full week and use the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as a day/evening trip. Dubai's JBR beach, The Dubai Mall, and Burj Khalifa add significant value to the trip.
Book Yas Island accommodation by August 2025 at the latest. Downtown Abu Dhabi and Dubai properties can be secured in October with minimal premium. For race weekend, non-refundable rates are 20–35% cheaper than flexible — only book those if your travel is locked in.
Get four apps before you land: the official F1 app for live timing and track data during sessions, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix app for circuit maps and gate information, and Careem (the regional Uber) for all ground transport. Add Talabat for food delivery back to your hotel on rest nights. Turn on offline maps in Google Maps for Yas Island — circuit Wi-Fi is available but heavily congested during peak session times, and you do not want to be squinting at a loading screen when the lights go out.
The UAE is a Muslim country with a relaxed attitude toward visitors during major international events, but a few rules are firm. Alcohol is served inside the circuit's licensed venues and at Yas Island hotels — public drinking outside those zones is not permitted. Dress modestly when leaving the circuit for Abu Dhabi city: covered shoulders and knees are expected in malls, mosques, and on public transport. Photography of local women without consent is illegal. Fridays are the Islamic holy day — plan any city-centre visits for Saturday evening or Sunday morning. Tipping 10–15% is appreciated but not mandatory.