Yas Island

Yas Island is Abu Dhabi's purpose-built island of leisure and thrills, packed with some of the region's biggest attractions. It is home to Ferrari World, whose Formula Rossa is one of the fastest rollercoasters in the world, alongside the Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros World theme parks, the SeaWorld marine park, and the Yas Marina Circuit that hosts the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix each year.

What you actually see

• Ferrari World - the theme park and its record-breaking rollercoaster.
• Yas Waterworld - the large waterpark of rides and slides.
• Warner Bros World - the indoor, air-conditioned theme park.
• The F1 circuit - the Yas Marina Grand Prix track.

When to go

November to March for pleasant weather for the outdoor and water parks; the indoor parks are comfortable year-round in the heat. The Formula One Grand Prix, usually in late November or December, is a huge draw but books up far ahead.

Honest expectations

Each park charges a separate, hefty ticket, so a full Yas Island visit adds up quickly. It is a manufactured entertainment complex rather than a cultural sight, best for families and thrill-seekers. Summer heat pushes visitors to the indoor and water parks. It is near the airport, easy to reach.

Nearby

The Louvre and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are in Abu Dhabi; Dubai is about an hour away.