F1 fan or not, how to persuade them to say yes to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Trying to persuade a non-F1 fan to join you at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix? No problem. This weekend away is about more than just racing. With great experiences, world-class entertainment, incredible attractions, and perfect weather, there’s plenty to keep them entertained. They might not love F1, but they’ll love this trip. Read on to see how you can win them over, and who knows, they might even leave as a fan!

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Even if they don’t care about who’s on pole, there’s plenty to do

Abu Dhabi has plenty to offer, no matter if your travel companion is into culture, adventure, or simply unwinding in the sunshine.

If they're interested in art and history, the Louvre Abu Dhabi showcases over 600 works across 22 galleries, while the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi make Abu Dhabi a cultural destination worth visiting.
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The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-see, with its gleaming white domes, intricate mosaics, and stunning chandeliers. It’s one of the most breathtaking landmarks in the world.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Yas Island is packed with thrills. Ferrari World has the world’s fastest roller coaster, Yas Waterworld has a freefall water slide and surf simulators, and Warner Bros. World includes a Harry Potter experience. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is an immersive marine park with over 100 animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and rides. Your Grand Prix tickets may even include entry to some of these attractions.

Ferrari World

For insight into the country’s heritage, Qasr Al Watan, the working presidential palace, is well worth a visit. Stay after sunset to see the Palace in Motion light and sound show.

For the best city views, Observation Deck at 300 in Etihad Towers has panoramic views of the skyline and Arabian Gulf.
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When the on-track action ends, the day is far from over. A-list artists take the stage for the nightly concerts, one of the highlights of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend. Your Grand Prix ticket includes access, the perfect way to end the day whether you’re an F1 fan or just along for the experience.

Nightly concerts on Yas Island

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They may not know the drivers, but they’ll appreciate the convenience

One of the best things about Abu Dhabi? You don’t have to deal with long commutes to the circuit. Stay on Yas Island, and you can step out of your hotel and be in your grandstand in minutes. No crowded trains, no long walks in the heat, just a seamless race weekend.

​The W Abu Dhabi is the ultimate spot for F1 fans, sitting right on top of the track, but there are more accommodation options right on the circuit’s doorstep, just minutes from the entrance. Ideal for those who prioritise convenience.

W Abu Dhabi Hotel at Yas Marina

Even if your budget doesn’t stretch to a trackside hotel, Abu Dhabi has plenty of four-star and luxury hotels just a short drive from Yas Marina. Some even offer a chauffeur drive service to and from the circuit, making race day even easier. Unlike some Grand Prix destinations where you’re stuck in traffic or reliant on public transport or shuttle buses, here you can wake up, grab a coffee, and be at your seat in no time.

And if you want to mix things up, you can spend your mornings by the pool or at the beach before heading to the track in the afternoon. It’s one of the most stress-free F1 weekends, especially if you’re travelling with someone who isn’t as obsessed with F1 as you are.

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They might not love F1, but they’ll love the sunshine and where it can take them

December in Abu Dhabi has warm, sunny days and great beach weather, ideal for escaping colder climates. It’s comfortably warm without the intensity of the summer heat. Relax by the pool, swim in the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf, or explore Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks. With the Formula One action in the afternoon and evening, you can enjoy the day without the midday sun.

Abu Dhabi is the only Formula 1 twilight race

If you're thinking about extending your trip, Abu Dhabi is a great starting point for more travel. The Maldives, Seychelles, and Mauritius are just a flight away, and Thailand, Malaysia, and Bali are also easy to get to, making them perfect for a winter getaway.

​If you’re heading to Australia or New Zealand for the Christmas holidays, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is a convenient stopover. Enjoy a few days of sunshine and racing before continuing your journey. The Grand Prix weekend could easily be the start of a longer trip.

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Abu Dhabi has the perfect mix, making it easy to persuade a non-F1 fan to join you for the Grand Prix weekend. Before you know it, they might even be asking you to plan the next F1 getaway!

Rob is an experienced independent travel consultant and travel content creator.

His love for Formula One started in the 1990s, watching the greats like Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, and Mika Hakkinen. He traveled to his first Grand Prix in 1999. It was the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona. Since then, Rob has traveled to over 2/3 of Grand Prix' on the current Formula One calendar.

Fast forward to today, and Rob has turned his passion into a career, dedicating his time to helping others plan their dream Formula One trips.

His favourite Grand Prix destinations are Austria and Austin, and when he's not attending a Formula One Grand Prix, you'll find him closer to home, walking or cycling in the Peak District National Park.