Yas Island is known for being home to the UAE’s largest concert venues, some of the world’s most thrilling theme parks, and a destination with a wide array of shopping and dining options.

Thanks to certain Yas Island attractions, it is no wonder that so many people from around the world are gravitating towards this place for their special occasions and dream vacations.

In 2021 and beyond, Yas Island is the ideal location for those who need to rejuvenate their minds, bodies, and souls. As it is located in Abu Dhabi, all visitors can be assured that their time on Yas Island will involve luxurious hotels or resorts, world-class entertainment, and beautiful beaches. In fact, there is something to occupy and excite every member of your travel party.

If you are considering booking a trip to Yas Island (or are already in planning mode), then read on for the most exceptional experiences you need to have on Yas Island.

1. Embrace your inner race car driver

First and foremost, you need to spend some time exploring and embracing the record-breaking thrills at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

Here, you can experience the world’s highest roller coaster loop (63 metres) and feel the excitement of a ride that accelerates from 0km/h to 240km/h in only 4.9 seconds.

And, if that wasn’t enough, at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, you can also get up close and personal with a collection of the brand’s most famous cars. If you are visiting with family, you can experience the child-friendly version of these rides in the Family Zone.

To make the most of your time at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, it is highly recommended that you opt for a quick access pass.

Additionally, you also want to make sure you have time in your itinerary to experience Yas Marina Circuit. As one of the world’s most advanced Formula 1® race circuits, the Yas Marina Circuit is a must-visit spot.

Opt for a guided tour that will allow you to immerse yourself in the world of race drivers fully. Not only will you get a behind-the-scenes tour of the circuit, but you will also discover what it takes to put on an F1 event and have your photo taken on the podium.

At the Yas Marina Circuit, you can also experience the Yas Kartzone, an outdoor track that offers go-karting sessions for all ages.

Or, if you are in town when a race is happening, you might be able to get tickets and watch a race live! In the four grandstands, the Yas Marina Circuit is able to seat up to 50,000 spectators. As the only covered seating F1 circuit, the Yas Marina Circuit offers spectators the most comfortable option.

2. Shop until you drop

No trip to Yas Island is complete without a spot of retail therapy. On the island, you can find Abu Dhabi’s largest mall, Yas Mall, which has an abundance of shopping, dining and entertainment experiences.

This mall has more than 370 stores and 68 restaurants spread out over three floors, including regional and international brands. You can find everything from Michael Kors to Zara, as well as beauty shops, bookstores, home décor stores, and Emirati brands.

While you are in the mall, make sure you stop to take in the art and sculptures by the Dutch artist Peter Gentenaar and South African artist Marco Cianfanelli, before grabbing yourself some popcorn and watching a movie on one of the 20 Vox Cinema screens.

Keep in mind that malls in the UAE are not solely places to shop, but instead they serve as social and cultural hubs that people use to take refuge from the hot and humid weather. So don’t be surprised if you end up spending hours inside the mall!

3. Indulge in delicious food and drink.

No vacation is complete until you have thoroughly indulged in delicious food and drink. Luckily, Yas Island provides plenty of options, guaranteeing that you and your group will find menus that work for you. Not to mention that there is always something happening on Yas Island, making it an incredible place to grab a drink and have a bite to eat.

When it comes to fine dining, you will want to eat at Cipriani – Yas Marina, the best fine dining restaurant on the island, or Blue Grill, a top steakhouse that has been delighting diners for years.

For mid-range meals, try the Italian restaurant Filini, the Mexican hotspot Amerigos Mexican Bar & Restaurant, and sushi from Desert Lotus Thai Bistro. Plus, don’t forget to try some Emirati cuisine!

Yas Marina is also home to a large number of restaurants and bars for you to try. Here you can find everything from authentic Mediterranean cuisine to high-quality Italian meals, and trendy cocktail bars.

Delicious breakfasts are always served at Jing Asia (inside the Crowne Plaza), Illy Cafe (at Marina Mall), Paul Bakery (a French cafe), and Mint Restaurant (serves international cuisine). At Hickories at Yas Links, you can indulge in an incredible breakfast while enjoying stunning views of the golf course and mangroves.

For those who need a caffeine boost, head to Boroughs, La Patisserie des Reves, and Island Cafe. And, don’t forget to try one of the famous milkshakes from Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes located inside The Fountains at Yas Mall. Rainforest Cafe is a family favourite that always gets a thumbs up.

Some of the most popular bars on the island include Casa de Cuba which flaunts a fantastic view of Yas Marina Circuit as well as an aesthetic interior; Filini Garden with its frequent drink deals, delightful wooden furniture, and air-conditioned terrace; and Stars N Bars which is home to a line of retro arcade games, table football and a live DJ on the outdoor deck.

And, no trip would be complete without sipping a drink at the Iris at Yas Marina and the bars at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island.

No matter who you are travelling with or how long you are traveling for, you will never run out of delicious food and drink choices while you are on Yas Island.

4. Relax at the beach

Once you have tired yourself out with all the other activities available to you on Yas Island, it is time to relax on the beach. Yas Beach boasts white sands, dazzling waters and natural mangroves. Whether you are looking to pass the time soaking up the sun or trying out some new watersports, Yas Beach won’t let you down.

Have you ever visited Yas Island? If not, is it somewhere that is on your list? What do you think would be the most exciting experience? If you have been, do you have any additional tips or activities to add to the list?

Let us know your thoughts and any further questions in the comments below!