Looking for a winter getaway this year, but not sure where to find that extra something? Why not combine your holiday to Abu Dhabi in 2024 with the Grand Prix finale for a weekend of thrills, glamour and a buzzing atmosphere? You can even pair it with an Indian Ocean beach escape to really make the most of it.
There are so many reasons to love Abu Dhabi in December. Not only does the anticipated spectacle of the Grand Prix finale take place, but the whole city is abuzz with activities and celebrations. Plus, the weather is perfect for relaxing on the beaches – and, as it’s just an easy stop on the way to Mauritius, you can even combine it with your tropical winter escape.
Want to know more? See more reasons why the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix should on your travel checklist this year.
1. It’s the last race of the F1 season
In case you didn’t know, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the pinnacle of excitement when it comes to the Formula One calendar.
It’s the climax of the season, where tensions are at their highest for claiming a space on the final podium. The action is always fuelled by adrenaline and the roar of the crowds, with every twist and turn of the track providing more than enough spectacle!
Champions have been made on this iconic marina-side track. Lewis Hamilton had one of the greatest season debuts here in 2007, and in 2022 he was famously pipped to the post in the last few seconds by Max Verstappen. Whether you’re a super-fan or a casual viewer, there’s plenty to keep you gripped!
Then there’s the atmosphere. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is famously a night race, meaning there is a whole day for the excitement to mount. As evening falls and the track begins to light up the warm night air, you can feel the electrifying atmosphere build – it really is an ‘I was there’ moment.
Our sister brand, Spectate, offers a number of Abu Dhabi Grand Prix packages, all of which can be tailored entirely to you.
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2. The Abu Dhabi F1 concerts are huge
While the race itself is clearly the main draw, there is plenty more that takes place over the weekend.
When the engines have dies down, the celebrations are only just beginning! The Yasalam After-Race Concerts are legendary, with incredible live performances gracing the stage. Past performers have included Beyonce, Paul McCartney, Jay Z and Rihanna – just to name a few!
Last year, the finale closed with a headline act from the iconic Foo Fighters, as they followed performances by Shania Twain, Chris Brown Ava Max and Tiësto – this is just an insight to what you could expect to see in 2024’s artist line-up.
Admission to the concert is included with your ticket, so you won’t miss out. You’ll also get access to Pit Lane Walk, where you can take a look inside the garages of some of the world’s fastest cars.
- Find out more about the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix concerts in 2024.
3. Enjoy the many things to do in Abu Dhabi
The Grand Prix finale takes place at the beginning of December, which also happens to be a fantastic time of year to visit Abu Dhabi.
In December, you can expect warm and sunny days, with temperatures averaging about 31°C and a low chance of any rain. This makes for perfect beach days – and, Abu Dhabi has many stretches of sands to make the most of. Saadiyat Beach is one of the best, with white sands and crystal waters. It’s also home to The St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, which boasts a beach bar with live saxophone music played as the sun sets.
Beyond the beaches, there’s even more to keep you busy. There’re theme parks, such as Ferrrari World Abu Dhabi which is home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, or the indoor Warner Bros World which is packed with movie themed rides. For a splash in the sun, head to Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi to try out more than 40 rides and slides.
For culture, spend a few hours at Louvre Abu Dhabi, a galactic structure that is a piece of art it itself. Inside, it’s collection features almost 700 works from pre-historic eras to the present day. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is also a must-see. It’s the largest mosque in the UAE and is iconic for its staggering white domes and spires.
Abu Dhabi also has a big draw for golf lovers. Yas Links Dubai boasts 18 holes along the water’s edge, with sprawling views over the Arabian Gulf. Or, there’s Saadiyat Beach Golf Club which sweeps across the dunes for a relaxing experience.
4. It’s the perfect winter sun combination
To really make the most of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, you can combine it with other top winter sun spots.
For beach lovers, head to Mauritius. Abu Dhabi is the main flight connection for Mauritius, so you can easily stop to experience the Grand Prix before continuing your journey to the Indian Ocean. Take your pick of luxury hotels here, from the iconic One&Only Le Saint Géran to all-inclusive options at Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort. Relax on the sands, make the most of top snorkelling opportunities or take an adventure in the stunning interior.
Enjoy a pre-race holiday to Seychelles for a luxurious beach escape. Hideaway in the magical oceanfront Six Senses Zil Pasyon, nestled in lush vegetation and the boulders of the rocky coastline. Seychelles is a paradise like no other, and you can experience its beauty by trailing to the famous Top Hill, watching a movie at the ‘cinema under the stars’ and bathing on one of it’s many white-sand beaches.
Alternatively, hop over to Dubai. Stay at Atlantis, The Palm for the ultimate experience, where you can dine at a choice of 32 restaurants and bars. You’ll also receive complimentary access to Aquaventure Waterpark and the Lost Chambers Aquarium. Or, take a dive with the PADI dive centre, relax at the Awaken Spa and take it easy on the beach.
Experience the wild jungles, temple-strewn cities and white-sand beaches of Thailand. You can stay at three of Thailand’s most luxurious and extraordinary hotels, including the famed Elephant Hills, hidden from the bustle of the city and perched on the edge of Cheow Larn Lake on the Sok River. Here, you can get up and close to the Asian elephants that roam around the camp.
Spectate offer Abu Dhabi & Dubai holidays and Abu Dhabi & Mauritius holidays with the Grand Prix. Alternatively, you can enjoy the Abu Dhabi & Thailand Elephant Safari & Beach Retreat.
5. You can go VIP with Platinum tickets
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix finale is the most glittering F1 event in the calendar. So, why not do it in style?
With our sister brand, Spectate, you can upgrade to an exclusive Platinum Hospitality package. Along with an all-access ticket to the races, concerts and Pit Lane Walk, you’ll join the team in our hosted suite. Set in a prime position at Yas Marina Circuit, the suite boasts a private balcony with unbeatable views over the track and marina beyond. Across the three race days, you’ll be served all-inclusive food and drink in the company of fellow Spectate guests and hosts, who will be available 24/7 to assist with anything you might need.
Finally, you’ll be invited to our pre-race brunch featuring a celebrity F1 speaker. Last year’s special guest was Johnny Herbert and while this year’s has yet to be revealed, they’re sure to bring some extra excitement to the weekend!
Plan your Grand Prix Holiday to Abu Dhabi with your chosen extended package
You can speak to our Inspiring Travel team to find out more about our bespoke and Platinum packages available through our sister brand, Spectate.
Or, visit the Spectate website now to explore all the available experiences.
