What the Yas Circuit looks like during the day – photo credit f1destinations.com
OK I have to admit I wasn’t a big fan of bike riding especially in the Middle Eastern heat. However, once I arrived to the Yas Marina Circuit I totally changed my mind. My friend had told me that on Tuesday Yas Marina Circuit is open to the public for bicycle rides and on Wednesday it is women only night.
Seriously, this didn’t sound like fun to me but when they asked me if I want to go I said “OK” half-heartedly. Now I believe this is the most awesome Muslim friendly family activity in Abu Dhabi plus it’s free. 🙂 A great way to spend an evening especially if you have some Formula One lovers in the family.
Ready for the challenge with Zohra from HalalGems.com
Some cool things
Registration is free and you can use it every time you visit Abu Dhabi.
You can get a free bicycle to ride around the circuit.
This is the formula One track – Oh yay!
Free helmet and shoes are provided- though I would advise against the shoes
On arrival the place was buzzing with people from expats to locals. Loud music, bicycles on the side and the heat to top it all off. I have to say I got into the mood straight away. I also didn’t realise until I was inside that this is the Formula One circuit and it is much cooler looking when you are on the ground rather than on TV.
The place was full with families and couples riding their bicycles and having so much fun.
The circuit
The Yas Marina Circuit is located on the Yas island which is about 30 minutes from the Abu Dhabi corniche. It is the venue for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. It has a capacity for 50,000 people and it is 5km in length.
I can’t even believe I did 5km on a bicycle and only in 20minutes. Seriously I haven’t been on a bicycle in 15years. However it was awesome and I can’t wait to go back and check it out with my husband.
I loved the feeling of biking on the same circuit just like the Formula One guys; you could feel the energy and imagine all the empty seats being filled with people. 🙂 – I totally did. It was awesome!
I was still smiling even after 5km, the most exercise I have done in 1 year. 🙂
It is a great way to spend an evening in Abu Dhabi doing something different and fun with your better half or your family & friends. You don’t have to even do the full circuit since there are lines open if you want to make it shorter or even if you feel tired there is a buggy that comes around to pick you up. How cool is that.
If you are a hijabi and you would like to feel more comfortable then the Wednesday evening is perfect for you since it is ladies only. They block most of the circuit area that is exposed and it is a small but still enjoyable circuit.
Day out on Yas Island
My recommendation is pack your trainers and sign up online even for half an hour. You can also combine it with a day trip to Yas Mall, Ferrari World and the Yas beach which I have heard is beautiful. Definitely on my list for next time.
P.S. You can also just go for a run or a walk around the circuit, you don’t have to necessarily rent a bicycle. The event is open from 6pm to 10pm every Tuesday and Wednesday (women only). The event site is here