Choosing a grandstand at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Where the grandstands are

Main Grandstand (start-finish straight)

The Main Grandstand runs along the start-finish straight, opposite the pit lane and team garages. From here you see the grid build-up, the start, the cars accelerating away from the line, the pit lane in action through the race, and the chequered flag. Seats on the right-hand side of the grandstand also face the grid and podium directly, which gives you a view of the pre-race interviews and post-race celebrations.

North Grandstand

The North Grandstand wraps around Turn 5, a tight, slow-speed hairpin where cars slow down, close up, and fight for position under braking. It’s a classic spot for jostling and the occasional clash of bodywork. The horseshoe layout creates a natural amphitheatre that amplifies the crowd.
This is also the grandstand where, in 2021, fans witnessed the last-lap overtake that handed Max Verstappen the World Championship.

West Grandstand

The West Grandstand sits at the heavy braking zone for Turns 6 and 7, the main overtaking spot on the circuit. Cars come down the long back straight at top speed and brake hard for the corner. From here you also have a wide view across the circuit, including the cars reappearing in the distance between Turns 15 and 16 as they complete a lap. Seats on the left-hand side give you a view down the main straight as well.

South Grandstand

The South Grandstand sits between Turns 8 and 9, with views of the cars exiting Turn 8 and braking heavily for Turn 9, the second main overtaking zone. From here you also catch the cars in the distance through the marina section between Turns 10 and 11.

Marina Grandstand

The Marina Grandstand sits between Turns 8 and 9, facing the marina and the illuminated W Abu Dhabi hotel. From here you watch the cars charging towards the Turn 9 braking zone and then follow them through the high-speed marina section around Turns 10 and 11. The marina backdrop, the superyachts, and the illuminated hotel are part of what makes this one of the more visually distinctive grandstands on the calendar.

General Admission

Abu Dhabi Hill is the only General Admission area at Yas Marina Circuit. It’s a small grass mound between Turns 2 and 6, with a slightly elevated view of that section of the lap. The views are not the same as a grandstand and the location is away from the prime overtaking spots, but Abu Dhabi’s reliably good late-November weather makes it a workable budget option for fans who don’t want to pay for a grandstand ticket.

FAQ's

Where do you see the most overtaking?

At Turn 6, at the end of the long back straight, and at Turn 9. The West and South grandstands cover both.

Are the grandstands covered?

Yes, all grandstands at Yas Marina are covered. Worth knowing that front-row seats can still get direct sun at certain times of day depending on the sun's position. Pack a hat and sun protection.

What's the weather like at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix?

Reliably good. The race takes place in late November or early December, when daytime temperatures are usually warm and evenings are mild. Rain is rare.

Is Abu Dhabi Hill worth considering?

Yes, as a budget option. Abu Dhabi Hill is a small grass mound between Turns 2 and 6 with a slightly elevated view. The views aren't the same as a grandstand, but for fans who don't want to pay grandstand prices, it's a workable choice.