Tourism

Yas Island

Yas Island

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Yas Island

Next to the beating commercial and administrative heart of Abu Dhabi, an island is taking shape to keep away the workday blues.

Foremost among the island’s attractions is Yas Marina Circuit, most recently showcased at the Formula 1 (F1) Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November 2013. Completed in 2010, international racers have praised its 5.5 kilometers of track, and the success of the venue offers a theme for some other attractions on the island. Ferrari World, with more than enough crimson racecars to satisfy the most ardent of F1 fans, also plays host to the world’s fastest rollercoaster, the Formula Rossa.

Less high-octane distractions can be found at Yas Marina, which offers exclusive berthing and yachting services for an elite clientele. And the surroundings could not be better. “When you look at the waterways around the island, they are fantastic; the blues, the greens, and the color of the sand,” explains Cedric Le Rest, General Manager of Yas Marina. The addition of Yas Waterworld in 2013 has attracted yet more visitors to the island, and the opening of Yas Mall in 2014, Abu Dhabi’s future center for retail and entertainment, is expected to draw a further 25 million tourists annually.