I knew the names Andretti, Lauda, and Fitipaldi before I could spell. And, to the chagrin of the adults, I’d sit a nose-length from the television screen to watch them zoom by. I learned of “exotic” locations like Monaco. And remember when downtown Miami, from Bayfront Park through Biscayne Boulevard, was transformed into a street circuit of the first-ever Miami Grand Prix in the early 1980s.

The names have since changed to Alonso, Hamilton, and Verstappen (and thankfully, my spelling has improved). Yet the excitement of watching drivers push the limits of speed, technology, and human endurance remains the same.

There is nothing like Formula One®.

Drivers battle each other at over 300 kph (200 mph), a mere inches apart, making split-second decisions that will either lead them to glory or disaster. They do this across more than twenty adrenaline-pumping races on some of the world’s most demanding circuits.

And none is more iconic and luxurious than Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi. The twilight setting, with the race transitioning from day to night, only amplifies the spectacle, creating an atmosphere unmatched on the Formula One calendar.

Glamour & Excitement

Designed by the legendary Hermann Tilke, this engineering marvel winds along the Yas Island waterfront, offering drivers and spectators breathtaking views and unmatched technical challenges. Widely regarded as the most expensive race track ever constructed, it boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a layout designed to challenge even the most skilled drivers. The track’s 5.28-kilometer (3.28-mile) length combines high-speed straights, technical turns, and iconic features like the stretch running beneath the futuristic W Abu Dhabi hotel, making it a true masterpiece of motorsport design.

But there is one accolade that makes this circuit a favorite among fans: it’s the championship decider.

Every year, the Yas Marina Circuit takes center stage as the host of the final round of the Formula One season. This pivotal event carries immense weight, often deciding both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships, adding an electrifying sense of drama to an already intense competition. This year, McLaren clinched the Constructors’ early, but the rest of the rankings are too close to call. The same for the Drivers’ Championship, so this could all come down to the December 7th race.

Speeding offseason

Yas Marina Circuit isn’t just a world-class venue for Formula One; it’s also a year-round destination for motorsport enthusiasts. Open to the public, the circuit offers a range of thrilling experiences that go beyond watching the race. From walking tours that delve into the history and inner workings of Formula One to opportunities for cycling or running on the iconic track itself, the Yas Marina Circuit invites everyone to immerse themselves in the spirit of speed and precision.

One of the highlights for fans of speed and beauty on four wheels is the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi experience, located adjacent to the circuit. Here, you can explore the Ferrari Fan Zone and get behind the wheel for an unforgettable racing experience. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, go from zero to 240 kph (149 mph) in five seconds on the world’s fastest rollercoaster.

Forty minutes south of Yas Island, the Emirates National Auto Museum is another must-visit locale for car lovers. Less about speed and more about the history and elegance of vehicles, the pyramid-shaped museum is home to over 200 cars owned by His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan. If you’re a fan of the BBC television program Top Gear, you will notice some familiar cars, including the 6-meter-tall (21-foot-tall) Willys Jeep, a modified 8×8 Nissan Patrol,  and a Mercedes Benz Monster Truck.

As we anticipate the end of the 2025 motorsport season, Abu Dhabi is the perfect place to fulfill your “need for speed” any time of year.