Abu Dhabi to host Formula 1 Grand Prix in 2009
Formula 1 fever is set to take over Abu Dhabi as the Emirate has secured the rights to host a Formula 1™ Grand Prix from 2009 onwards. The Grand Prix, which will bring some of the world’s top rally drivers to the streets of the Emirate, will firmly place Abu Dhabi on the map as a world-class sporting destination.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan commented: “A Formula 1™ Grand Prix is one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events, in the same category as an Olympic Games or World Cup, and is unrivalled in terms of continuous global resonance. That is why this new partnership is such an exciting one for Abu Dhabi and the entire UAE.”
The 2009 Formula 1™ Abu Dhabi Grand Prix track is being constructed by ALDAR Properties, one of the UAE’s leading property development companies, and designed by renowned Formula 1TM circuit designer Hermann Tilke. Already under construction, the track is situated on the 2,550 hectare, natural, Yas Island, on the east coast of Abu Dhabi and only minutes away from the expanding Abu Dhabi International Airport.
In addition to providing the stage for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2009, Abu Dhabi’s natural Yas Island will also be home to a range of other new tourism projects.
Set to become a prestigious world-class leisure destination, when completed Yas Island will boast an array of attractions including beaches, a host of entertainment options, world-class shopping facilities, luxurious hotels and residences, golf courses, equestrian facilities and a motor racing centre. Yas Island will also host the world’s first ‘Ferrari World’ theme park.
Spread over an area of 2,550 hectares, Yas Island is approximately one third the size of the island of Abu Dhabi, and features a beach front shoreline which is 32 kms long. Shopping will be one of the key attractions on the island, with retail areas occupying a staggering 300,000 square metres.
Ferrari World, which will consist of a Ferrari-themed park, museum and theatre, will be a further major highlight. The attraction will offer visitors the chance to learn about Ferrari’s history and brand, whilst enjoying the Ferrari experience via a number of virtual simulators. These attractions will be linked to a top quality motor race track on which visitors will be able to experience the thrill of the exclusive Ferrari Driving School (Pilota Ferrari), kart track and dune buggies.
For further information on Yas Island visit www.yasisland.ae
Report by Chitra Mogul
Chitra Mogul
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