Excitement soars for Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Abu Dhabi: Excitement is building both on and off the track for this year's Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The atmosphere is electric as F1 fans from around the world descend on the impressive Yas Marina Circuit in the capital ahead of the big race tomorrow.

More than 50,000 residents and visitors are expected to watch the Grand Prix, with many of them already in town to catch the stars amid their practice and qualifying runs. There are also those wanting to squeeze in a quick trip to the recently-opened Ferrari World theme park.

For eight-year-old Matthew Brodder the excitement was proving too much. "This has been my best holiday so far," said the youngster, visiting Abu Dhabi with his family from the UK. "I never want to leave and I am very excited about seeing the fast cars," he gushed.

Matthew's dad, Timothy, 39, rolled his eyes adding: "That's if we can drag him away from the Ferrari World theme park." Photographers and television crews, journalists and presenters scurry around among an audience clearly dressed not only to see, but also to be seen.

The circuit stands are full and spectators range from the rich and famous to international and local visitors soaking up the atmosphere with friends and family. Stunning in a white linen trouser and shirt combo, Janet Marshall, 34, said it took her three months to plan her outfit. The teacher, single from Abu Dhabi, says you never know who you might meet at an event like this.

Finishing touches

"I'm serious," she laughed. "I could meet a rich racing driver who whisks me off my feet," she continued while her friends laughed hysterically in the background. "Maybe we could get married at Yas Marina Circuit and have the reception at Yas Hotel. I'll invite you."

Everyone is in high spirits, as buses, cars and trucks transport people and equipment around the circuit putting the finishing touches in place.

Families enjoy lunches on grassy areas before heading into the stands periodically to catch the action, while others dine on yachts.

Others walk the paddock squinting into the windows of VIP shuttles in the hope of catching a glimpse of anyone with celebrity status.

It's already proving an unforgettable weekend of sport, glamour and music and Kanye West experienced it himself on stage at Yas Arena on Thursday night. Linkin Park were expected to deliver the goods yesterday followed by Prince tomorrow.

It may be all about the fast cars but if the past two days are anything to go by you'd better prepare for a weekend of high-octane everything.