Yas Marina is a world famous race track built about 30 minutes drive from Abu Dhabi. Since 2009, the Grand Prix of the UAE capital Formula 1, one of the most spectacular events in the world, has been held here. The shade of blue used in the construction of the facility was named Yas Marina Blue Metallic.
History of creation
The cost of the project is estimated at $1.322 billion. This is the most expensive Formula 1 track in history. German specialist Hermann Tilke was appointed as the lead architect. In 2007, the construction of the autodrome began. Yas Marina was conceived as an analogue of the Monaco circuit.
Despite the fact that the workflow was complicated by the hot weather typical of the United Arab Emirates, the results exceeded expectations. The opening ceremony was held in 2009, and the first Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was organized here in the fall of the same year. Sebastian Vettel, who was driving a high-speed Red Bull car, was declared the winner. By now, he has already completed his career.
Short description
The surface of the track is made of graywacke sedimentary rock, which was specially delivered to the UAE from the English village of Bayston Hill in Shropshire. More than 4,000 tons of material were shipped. Traffic on the Yas Marina highway is carried out counterclockwise, similar to the Monaco circuit. Experts say that this creates additional difficulties during the races.
The Arabian highway consists of 3 high-speed sections and difficult turns. You can watch the races from 4 covered stands, and VIP tickets provide access to air-conditioned and powered lounges. One gravel trap is located near the east grandstand, the exit from the race track goes along the road through a lighted tunnel, which allows tournaments to be held even after sunset. For a fee, visitors can ride a real racing car and feel like a born Schumacher. The service can be used if you have an international driver's license and driving experience.
Unusual facts
According to the approved plan, the length of the Yas Marina highway was estimated at 5,555 meters. The builders say that no adjustments were made during the work, but the finished route was 5,554 meters – it is still a mystery where the meter disappeared. Despite this, the highway has not lost its functionality. After the update in 2021, the figure is 5,281 meters.
A marina, hotels, golf courses, a Yas Mall and a Ferrari theme park are open next to the highway. In the Yas Marina area, you can also practice water sports, enjoy the musical fountain show, and taste traditional Arabic cuisine in restaurants.
How to get
The highway is laid on the artificial island of Yas, it is located next to Abu Dhabi International Airport and about an hour's drive from Dubai. This is one of the favorite tourist stops. It is not uncommon to arrive here by taxi, but public transport can be considered as an alternative. Yas Island is reached by bus No. 190, departing from the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. Free Yas Express buses run around the island. It is recommended to check the schedule on the eve of the trip to Yas Marina, as it may change.
Gallery
Nearby attractions
