Yas Island is Abu Dhabi’s entertainment engine — theme parks, the Formula 1 circuit, Etihad Arena and beach clubs, all on one purpose-built island. Few places in the region pack as much into a single day, which is why Yas Island tops most first-time Abu Dhabi itineraries.
From white-knuckle rides to waterfront dining and world-class concerts, it is a destination in its own right. Here is how to make the most of it, as part of our main Abu Dhabi guide.
Getting your bearings on Yas Island
The island gathers its big attractions within a short hop of each other — the theme parks, Yas Mall, the waterfront at Yas Bay and the marina circuit — and sits right beside the airport, with Saadiyat Island a short drive away.
Where to eat on Yas Island
Yas Bay Waterfront and Yas Mall pack in restaurants for every mood, from quick bites to waterfront dining. Browse the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi to plan.
Things to do on Yas Island
This is the big one: Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, Yas Waterworld and SeaWorld, plus Etihad Arena for concerts and the Yas Marina F1 circuit.
Where to stay on Yas Island
The island is stacked with resorts to suit every budget, many within walking distance of the parks — see our pick of luxury staycations.
Getting to Yas Island
Yas Island sits right by Abu Dhabi airport and is linked by the free Yas Express shuttle, buses and taxis; it is about a 90-minute drive from Dubai.
Best time to visit
The cooler months from October to April are best for the outdoor circuit and waterfront, while the indoor parks keep Yas Island comfortable year-round; the F1 weekend is the marquee event.
Eat, play and stay on Yas Island
Yas Island is the capital’s entertainment engine, and most visits revolve around its theme parks. Thrill-seekers should start with our full guides to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the record-breaking Warner Bros World and Yas Waterworld — three of the biggest days out in the UAE, all within a few minutes of one another. Race fans can add the Yas Marina Circuit, home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, while SeaWorld Yas Island rounds out the line-up.
After dark, Yas Bay has become one of Abu Dhabi’s liveliest waterfront strips — see where it lands in our roundup of Abu Dhabi’s best clubs and bars. For a base, the island’s resorts feature in our pick of luxury staycations in Abu Dhabi, from the F1-straddling W Abu Dhabi to family-friendly beach hotels. It all makes Yas Island an easy, self-contained few days in the capital.
Explore more of Abu Dhabi
Nearby: Saadiyat Island. Or head back to the main Abu Dhabi guide.