Even if you’re not into motor-racing (er, why not?) you’ll probably have heard about the rather pivotal Formula One race happening this weekend at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Well, for you and thousands of others, there’s no need to feel excluded because there is a hive of events happening around the Yas Marina circuit that demands your attention. Here are places that are worth reserving tickets for. Pronto.
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Tonique x Esquire Bar and Yacht Party
You didn’t think that the Formula One circus would come to town and we here at Esquire would not be involved, did you? As it is, we’ve teamed up with the supremely well-connected guys (and our buddies) at Tonique Beverage Consultancy, to create a custom-made bar in the very heart of the Yas Marina. The Aperitivo Lounge will be smack bang in the middle of the Yas Marina promenade and will be open the public from Friday to Sunday. Naturally, with us involved, you can expect a fine mix of music, racing and Martini cocktails. If you’re feeling a bit more ‘fancy Dan’, then Tonique are also hosting a special yacht experience, which we’ll admit is probably the best place to spend race weekend – plus it’ll make all your mates pretty darn jealous.
For your chance to WIN! passes and a meet-and-greet with Williams Martini Racing driver Valtteri Bottas
Friday 25 to Sunday 27; 2pm-1am. Yas Marina Promenade. For reservations call: (800) 627 4627.
Podium Lounge
Known for some serious track-side celebrations, The Podium Lounge will return to the F1 this weekend from the 25-27th. We know, there are concerts running all off those days, however if you want to sway late into the night (4am), The Podium Lounge with its VIP suites and aerobridge view of the track is perfect for you.
General admission: From Dhs200. VIP tables: From Dhs5,000. Friday 25 to Sunday 27; 10am-4am; Rush, Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, Contact: [email protected]; Call: (056) 113 4626.
Amber Lounge
As the most glamorous party around, Amber lounge follows the F1 around the world and will come to Abu Dhabi this weekend. Hosting celebrity yachts and legendary after parties, which have previously catered for the likes of Prince Harry, Kylie Minogue and Lewis Hamilton, be sure to expect star studded parties on the Saturday and Sunday.
Table passes from Dhs3,000. Visit amber-lounge.com for more information.
MAD
The nightclub MAD is sticking to what works for it best, going all-out over the F1 weekend. Kicking off the weekend in style will be American rapper T-Pain on Thursday night. On Friday, even more big-name acts will hit the stage, with Sean Paul and Rita Ora taking over. And on Sunday, Future will bring down the curtain on the weekend in true hip-hop style.
Thursday 24 to Sunday 27, 11pm-3am. MAD, Yas Island. For tickets contact: [email protected]; or Call: (055 834 6262).
