Yas Marina Circuit – Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

The Layout

The circuit measures 5.281 km and incorporates 16 turns. It runs anticlockwise and features a combination of fast straights and technical corners. Several sections wind past the marina and beneath the W Abu Dhabi hotel, which is recognised for its illuminated facade and its landmark position over part of the track. Covered grandstands offer comfortable viewing for up to 60,000 spectators.

Signature Corners

The circuit’s technical corners are interspersed with fast straights, creating a varied challenge for drivers. Sections of the circuit pass beneath the W Abu Dhabi hotel, making that stretch one of the most visually distinctive passages on the Formula 1 calendar. The 2021 reprofiling replaced several slower corners with faster, flowing sections, raising the overall pace and the sporting challenge of the lap.

History

The Yas Marina Circuit has hosted the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix since 2009, regularly serving as the season finale where championship battles reach their peak. Designed by architect Hermann Tilke, the circuit is located on Yas Island, a tourist destination just outside Abu Dhabi. In 2021, the circuit was reprofiled to improve overtaking opportunities, with several slower corners replaced by faster, flowing sections. That same year’s finale proved controversial, with Max Verstappen taking a title-winning drive at the circuit.

Circuit Character

Yas Marina is a night race venue, with the Grand Prix transitioning from day into night under what is described as the world’s largest permanent sports lighting system. Spectators in the covered grandstands experience the sunset as part of the event atmosphere. Beyond Formula 1, the circuit hosts a variety of motorsport events and public activities, including driving experiences, karting, and cycling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a lap at Yas Marina?

A lap at Yas Marina Circuit measures 5.281 km. The full race distance is 306.183 km.

How many corners does Yas Marina have?

Yas Marina Circuit has 16 turns.

When did Yas Marina first host a Formula 1 race?

Yas Marina Circuit first hosted a Formula 1 race in 2009. It has held the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix every year since.

What is the lap record at Yas Marina?

The current lap record at Yas Marina is 1:25.637, set in 2024.

Who won the most recent Abu Dhabi Grand Prix?

Max Verstappen won the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix driving for Red Bull.

Which direction does Yas Marina Circuit run?

Yas Marina Circuit runs anticlockwise.

How many DRS zones does Yas Marina have?

Yas Marina Circuit has two DRS zones.

Who designed Yas Marina Circuit?

Yas Marina Circuit was designed by architect Hermann Tilke.

What changes were made to Yas Marina Circuit in 2021?

In 2021, the circuit was reprofiled to improve overtaking opportunities. Several slower corners were replaced by faster, flowing sections, raising the overall pace and sporting challenge.

How many spectators can Yas Marina Circuit accommodate?

The covered grandstands at Yas Marina Circuit offer comfortable viewing for up to 60,000 spectators.

Is the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix held during the day or at night?

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is a night race, with the event transitioning from day into night. The circuit operates under what is described as the world’s largest permanent sports lighting system.

What activities are available at Yas Marina Circuit outside of Formula 1?

Beyond Formula 1, Yas Marina Circuit hosts a variety of motorsport events and public activities, including driving experiences, karting, and cycling.