So with the first two Formula 1 practice sessions over and done with we move into Saturday. The final one hour practice session starts at 2pm this afternoon, and the one hour qualifying session begins at 5pm. In the mean time, though, we’ve got some ideas for you.
Check here to find out what’s happening around the city.
Breakfast
Jim’s Kitchen Table
Jim's is to be found at Masdar City, and this is a place becoming increasigly popular with the capital's western residents. Its industrial-urban decor is well-appointed and laid back. There is lots of space and even a toddler's play area at the back.
The menu is well-stocked, and pleasingly breakfast is served all day. There are plenty of options, from egg dishes to oatmeal. You may also be pleased to hear that Jims specialises in gluten-free produce, such as bread. What to try Try everything, but whatever you try, make sure you order a side of maple thyme beef bacon. Give it a chance; beef bacon has never been so amazing. Location Masdar City Cost for two Dh120 Timings 7.30am to 10.30pm daily Phone 02 491 9401 Website Jim's Kitchen Table
Dinner
BOA Steakhouse
Located on the Eastern Mangroves Promenade, BOA Steakhouse so one of those “must tries”. There are a variety of steak cuts and each is cooked to your preference and accompanied with your choice of sauce. Side orders aren’t your conventional chips, but an exotic selection of everything you can imagine. The seafood is also second to none.
What to try Steak. No, really, we’ll leave it up to you. Location Eastern Mangroves Promenade Cost for two Dh400 Timings 12.30pm to 1am Phone 02 641 1500 Website BOA
Night time
F1 Podium Lounge
Having hosted sell-out, celebrity packed events at the Yas Viceroy since 2013, the high octane Podium Lounge event is moving over the road to the Du Forum. The venue has undergone a dramatic transformation into a glamorous ultra lounge featuring a dazzling overhead catwalk and VIP balcony suites offering a magical party experience with the racing community for up to 3,000 guests per night.
BBC pundit and ex-F1 driver David Coulthard is a favourite at the Podium Lounge
Recognised as the ultimate A-List party for the racing community in Singapore, Melbourne and Monaco, and situated within walking distance of the track and in close proximity to The Paddock Club, The Podium Lounge hosts Formula 1 drivers, teams, royalty, celebrities, ambassadors, supermodels and the glamorous personalities of UAE's jet-setting party elite each year. Come on, surely you fancy paying this a visit!
Tickets Dh400 in advance, Dh500 on the door (although on the door tickets cannot be guaranteed). VIP packages are available Timings From 8pm Phone 056 113 4626 Website Podium Lounge
Explore
Heritage Village
Ever wondered what Abu Dhabi was like before the discovery of oil? Once you’ve worked your way through the glass jungle of the city and emerge on the Corniche seafront, head towards the giant flag mast on Marina Island. There you will find the Heritage Village, a throwback from yesteryear selling authentic Arabic trinkets and treats.
Timings Open all day Entry Free Website Heritage Village
F1 Schedule
Time | Ends | Activity | Location |
---|---|---|---|
10.30am | Yas Marina Circuit gates open | West and East gates | |
10.30am | Yas Kartzone opens | Behind North Grandstand | |
11am | 12.05pm | Formula One Paddock Club Pit Lane Walk | Pit lane |
12.05pm | 12.15pm | McLaren Honda Autograph Session | F1 Village |
12.15pm | 12.35pm | Scuderia Toro Rosso Autograph Session | F1 Village |
12.25pm | 1.10pm | GP3 First Race (18 laps or 40 mins) | Yas Marina Circuit |
2pm | 3pm | Formula 1 Saturday practice 3 | Yas Marina Circuit |
5pm | 6pm | Formula 1 Qualifying | Yas Marina Circuit |
6.40pm | 7.45pm | GP2 First Race (31 laps or 60 mins) | Yas Marina Circuit |
7pm | Du Arena opens for Florence and the Machine | Du Arena | |
8pm | Yas Marina Circuit gates close | West and East gates | |
8pm | Yas Kartzone closes | Behind North Grandstand |