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The best places to party during the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Raceweek

When it comes to Grand Prix after-parties, Abu Dhabi knows how to celebrate in style. From iconic superclubs hosting phenomenal music acts to world-famous lifestyle brands taking over the hottest venues in the city, there will be a huge selection of events keeping revelers entertained over race week.

Abu Dhabi's race week entertainment is what makes the iconic F1 fixture one of the most memorable on the entire circuit. As it’s the final meet of the year, everybody’s looking to let their hair down and end the season on a high and, usually, the racers themselves are keen to join in with the festivities.   

The city’s lavish nightspots rev up their game by adding big-name performers to the bill as the best-known party brands arrive in town for the weekend and wow with their limited-edition pop-up nightspots. As most are located on Yas Island, superyacht goers are already at the heart of the after-party action.

The Amber Lounge, Yas Links

amber lounge luxury party monaco

As the world’s original and most exclusive grand prix after-party, the Amber Lounge is where the jetsetters, A-listers and F1 fraternity come to party. A formula 1 staple, the touring nightclub follows the circuit around the globe and when it reaches Abu Dhabi takes up residence at Yas Links for two nights only.  

Live DJ sets, non-stop club dancers and world-renowned music acts ensure Saturday night is one to remember and party-goers will be drawn back on Sunday to celebrate alongside drivers, teams and sponsors at the legendary season closing party, which is the most anticipated social event on the grand prix calendar.  

A variety of VIP table packages are available ensuring the utmost exclusivity. The most desirable is undoubtedly the tailor-made ‘Ultimate Weekend Package’ which needs to be booked advanced.

MAD on YAS Island

people dancing in a nightclub called MAD on Yas island

MAD on Yas Island is the biggest indoor nightclub in the UAE and if this isn’t reason enough alone to tempt you to the nightspot, the huge headliners performing each night during race week will be.

Jumbo-sized LED screens, 360-degree video projection, dazzling light shows and the latest sound technology ensure a rip-roaring atmosphere every night at this upscale venue. It is a firm favourite among the elite who make a beeline for the luxurious VIP area complete with its own private bathrooms. 

The Richlist, Palm Garden - Yas Viceroy

People sitting outside at The Rich List at Palm Island event at Yas Viceroy Hotel with palm trees lit up in background

Exclusive events brand Rich List Group has hosted a sell-out series of pop-up parties at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix since 2013. Set in a unique custom-built venue in the grounds of five-star Yas Hotel, the take over is known for its superstar music acts, celebrity-packed guest list and under-the-stars setting.   

Superyacht-goers at the grand prix who upgrade their marina passes to the VIP option will have complimentary access to the nightclub. It’s also worth noting the Yas Hotel is also home to Skylite – Abu Dhabi’s most iconic rooftop lounge and bar.

Iris Yas Island

Cool yet charmingly unconventional, Iris Yas Island offers chilled vibes, artisan cocktails, smooth music and great views before morphing into one of the hottest nightclubs in the city.

The venue’s transformative powers will be no less during race week as the hippest crowd around comes to enjoy sunset sessions on the expansive outdoor terrace and stays on to party as an exciting line-up of international DJs take to the decks for adrenaline-fuelled clubbing sessions. 

There is also an eclectic menu of gourmet cuisine, ensuring the hotspot ticks off yet another facet in its entertainment offer. Table reservations are strongly recommended during the grand prix.

Candypants, Casa de Cuba

a crowd of people partying at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Casa De Cuba

Fun-loving party company Candypants will hook up with new Cuban cocktail bar Casa de Cuba in Yas Marina for a series of unmissable upbeat party nights at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Candypants is perhaps best known for its outrageously lively brunches in Dubai and its boundary-breaking panache, expertly mixed drinks and massive line-up of global DJs will be sure to attract a hip, up-for-it crowd for this year's event. Starting at noon, the festivities continue through to 5am.

As for Casa de Cuba, expect an authentic Latin experience; everything from the fresh flowers and décor to the food and award-winning cocktails to live DJs and percussionists screams Cuba.

Stars ‘N’ Bars

Entrance to Stars and Bars Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Interior of Stars and Bars Abu Dhabi Grand Prixbikes outside of the Stars and Bars Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Abu Dhabi’s favourite sports bar Stars ‘N’ Bars in Yas Marina will be at the heart of the grand prix’s social scene. During the day, the live trackside action will be broadcast across the venue’s 70 TV screens and revellers can take advantage of an all-inclusive beverage and bites package.

Headed up by Funch, the award-winning fun brunch brand, the deal costs 500 AED per person and runs from midday to 4pm on the Star Deck terrace. Not only will fabulous food and drink be on the agenda, but a selection of games and competitions will also be keeping everybody in high spirits.

The excitement will be accompanied by a soundtrack of upbeat anthems with more live DJs and bands keeping the masses entertained until the early hours.

Superyacht Parties

yacht party at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

The most exclusive parties at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix are hosted on board the private superyachts berthed in Yas Marina. Similarly to the on-land clubs, these superyacht soirees feature big-name DJs and live performances from world-class music acts to keep scores of well-heeled VIP guests dancing well after the racing has finished.

Alongside having headliners that rival those of the biggest clubs in the city, the superyachts with the most exclusive parties also feature free-flowing premium drinks, gourmet cuisine and five-star service. State-of-the-art sound systems, disco lighting and luxurious social areas add to the upscale nightlife vibes too.

Such is the popularity of these on-the-water festivities, it’s recommended you get your name down on the guest list or book tickets ahead of your arrival. The non-private parties form part of VIP F1 yacht hospitality packages. Secure one of these hot tickets and the celebrations begin as soon as you step on board to watch the racing.

Need more information?

To find out more about how you can attend the event while on an Abu Dhabi yacht charter, speak to your preferred yacht charter broker today.

By Rebecca Bradbury   Last Updated 11 November 2022

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