Festive fun on
yas island
Have a wonderful winter at the region’s most exciting holiday destination
1
FestiveIsland Fun on Yas What better time to get away for a few days of excitement and adventure than at the very end of the year? During the winter season Yas Island takes all of its fantastic rollercoasters, rides and attractions and turns up the excitement. Read on to find fabulous offers, incredible experiences and some insider tips that will make this festive period the most amazing ever. This guide has everything you need to get you to Yas Island and build your holiday of a lifetime once you arrive. About This Guide There isn’t anything that the Festive Fun on Yas Island team don’t know about Yas, so sit back and let them show you around the UAE’s ultimate leisure and entertainment destination.
the Contents 2
Introduction Everything you need to know about getting to Yas Island
4
15
Festive Feasts The best places to feed your family over the winter period
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Victoria Thatcher EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
John Thatcher
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
David Wade EDITOR
8
Yas Island Resolutions Start the new year by ticking off these amazing experiences
Richard Jenkins
Festive Fun on Yas Island All the entertainment and winter activities taking place this year
18
Where to stay Need-to-know info about the best hotel for your tribe
DEPUTY EDITOR
DESIGNER
ILLUSTRATOR
Annie Darling
Emi Dixon
Andrew Thorpe
SENIOR DESIGNER
PRODUCTION MANAGER
To contact any of the team, email firstname@hotmediapublishing. com
Andy Knappett
Muthu Kumar
2
The Essentials All you need to know
Getting
THERE If you’re flying into the UAE for a sunny winter, Abu Dhabi International Airport is home to over 40 airlines, including the capital’s carrier Etihad Airways, and serves almost a hundred destinations around the world. If you’re traveling with babies and young children, look out for the complimentary strollers that are available at various locations throughout the terminals. Left your reindeerdrawn sleigh at home? Not to worry, Yas Island is only a seven-minute drive away by taxi. The acclaimed island is also just under an hour’s drive from Dubai - so if you’re staying in the neighbouring emirate, a trip down to Abu Dhabi is a piece of mince pie. Alternatively, a drive to Yas Island from The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia can be done in a day. To book a flight to Abu Dhabi International Airport, visit dnatatravel.com or call +971 4 316 6666
Getting
AROUND The Yas Express, a complimentary shuttle service, connects all the major attractions on the island through designated stops. The Blue Route, running from 9am to 9pm, takes in Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, Yas Plaza Hotels, Yas Central, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi; while the Red Route, open 9am to 2am, connects guests from all hotels to Yas Marina, Yas Links Abu Dhabi and Yas Beach. You can also cycle around the island using Bikeshare, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Yas Marina offers a variety of berth packages, starting from 13,150 AED. If you don’t have your own yacht and would like to rent one, well-trained and friendly staff are dedicated to meeting the unique requests of visitors. For information email yas.marina@ cnyasmarina.com
14 FEBURARY
Valentine’s Day
Treat your loved one to a special, ultra-romantic meal at Cipriani Yas Island, the Italian fine-dining experience beyond compare
3
Upcoming Events For a season of winter fun
11 DECEMBER – 3 jANUARY Let It Snow
Yas Marina will be transformed into a winter wonderland with a snowball zone open daily, tree lighting ceremony on December 11 and unique winter market on Saturday December 12
18 DECEMBER –19 jANUARY Winterfest
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will be filled with seasonal cheer as sub-zero excitement brings all the frosty festive fun of the North Pole to Yas Island’s popular indoor attraction
31 DECEMBER New Year’s Eve
Ring in the new year with a party at one of Yas Island’s luxurious and popular hangouts, like MAD Yas Island or chilled out lounge, Iris
1 jANUARY
New Year’s Day Lunch Buffet
Whether you’re celebrating with an intimate group or a large gathering, start the new year in the right way with a delectable buffet at Yas Links
15 jANUARY
Porsche Club UAE
Take advantage of this exclusive and exciting opportunity to drive under the lights on the wet skid pad and dynamic handling area of Yas Marina Circuit
4
New Year’s Resolutions Got some bucket-list ideas you’re looking to tick off? At Yas Island, you can do it in style
Cut out stress
The positive health effects of relaxation are seemingly endless. You’ll find an oasis of sun, sea and sand at Yas Beach and its brandnew Beach Club. Set on a sublime stretch of white sand, there’s no place quite as beautiful or peaceful.
5
6
Get fit
Save money
New year, new look
Learn a new skill
Spend more time with family
Experience the world’s fastest rollercoaster
Vogue Fitness and CrossFit Yas is all about mixing fitness and fun to create a unique training experience that delivers incredible results. Fully qualified nutritionists take a realistic approach to your diet and help accelerate your fitness goals.
It’s a new year, and a new look means a new outlook. One outfit can make all the difference. Yas Mall is Abu Dhabi’s must-visit getaway shopping experience. So treat yourself with a makeover and some fashionable and affordable threads.
From the ultimate children’s playground, Marah Fortress, to thrilling waterslides, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi entertains all generations. While the kids enjoy the 45 rides and attractions, parents can relax knowing they have everything close by.
Whether you’re a serious runner or a keen cyclist, spend your Tuesday evenings on the F1 track. Train Yas is free (unless you need to rent a bike) and welcomes participants of all abilities. It’ll entertain you while testing your physical strength.
Putting is a fundamental aspect of every golfer’s game. You’d be wrong in thinking golf is just exercise, so why not try to develop your swing? Yas Links Abu Dhabi combines jawdropping scenery with the thrill of uneven fairways.
Do you have a need for speed? Strap yourself into the Formula Rossa cockpit and laugh in the face of danger. Accelerate up to 240km/h and blast off, before being launched 52 metres into the sky.
6.
7
7.
3.
2.
4.
8
9
Festive Fun
There’s no shortage of seasonal adventures to be found at Yas Island - so dive in and enjoy these wintry experiences
10
his season, Yas Island will be transformed into a glittering winter wonderland that promises to bring fun for the whole family. Throughout December and January, Yas Island is decking the halls in preparation for a month’s worth of holiday parties. Hotels and other outlets are adorned with everything joyful, from elegant baubles to twinkling tinsel. The insuppressible spirit of the season radiates throughout the island and sensational surprises lurk behind every corner.
You don’t have to be a professional racer to have fun go-karting Here in the UAE, you may not be able to build a snowman in your back garden or cozy up in your winter woolies, but you can still enjoy an unforgettable holiday in the sunshine. Take a leisurely stroll along the snow-smothered and festively decorated Yas Marina Promenade, where you can admire sparkling fairy lights. The magical tree lighting ceremony on December 11 is not to be missed! Enjoy the wafting aroma of warm roasted chestnuts, sticky toffee apples and mulled holiday beverages that spice up the sea breeze. If you’re energetic, get your blood pumping with a feisty snowball fight in the artificial Snowball Zone. Each week in December, Kids Film Fridays puts a holiday classic movie on
11 Opening pages: Festive Fun at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Clockwise from left: TrainYas; Yas Marina Circuit; Stars ‘N’ Bars with winter decorations; Festive Fun at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
a large outdoor screen for families to enjoy. If it’s playful competition you’re after, spend some time at Yas Kartzone. It’s ideal for both kids and adults, enabling families to enjoy motorsports together in a safe environment. You don’t have to be a professional racer to have fun go-karting! Seasoned visitors can get the thrill of drag racing at Yas Marina Circuit, where you race friends in a high performance car. DriveYAS allows you the opportunity to take part in all experiences, all day! No need for bookings, just arrive and drive any of the spectacular driving or passenger products every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Every Friday and Saturday before December 24, Santa will arrive by boat at the Yas Marina to take some pictures with the kids. Remember your wish lists - his elves will be collecting them! If you don’t want to gain any extra pounds over the holiday season, you needn’t worry. You can shed the festive weight before it’s even had a chance to settle on your hips. Spend your Tuesday evenings working out at TrainYas or blast calories at Vogue Fitness’
fully functional outdoor training facility. Don’t have time because of the little ones? CrossFit Kids will have them preoccupied while you enjoy your workout. Afterwards, head downstairs and play some pool at Stars ‘N’ Bars. Over the years, this restaurant has welcomed a multitude of celebrities to Abu Dhabi. Far from your average Americanstyle hangout, it is a complete entertainment venue with magnificent views of the Yas Marina and racetrack. Or experience Yas Island from the sky with Seawings. Take off from Yas Marina and enjoy a breathtaking journey over Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Grand Mosque and Emirates Palace. To keep the wintry experiences coming, head to Yas Links where you can sing along to classic holiday carols after a round of golf at the challenging and beautiful links-style course. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is also gearing up for the holiday season with their annual Winterfest. From December 18 to January 9, visitors can admire the dazzling festive tree, which will stand at the heart of the snow-cloaked venue. Swap your sandals for skates and glide across the specially
This page: Ice skating show at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Opposite page, clockwise from top: Kayaking at Yas Beach; Ferrari World Abu Dhabi; Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi.
13
be a dream, but for some travellers the lack of sunshine where they live is turning them into a Grinch. For those who want to forget about the cold and enjoy a built ice rink. Younger sunny holiday this year, the visitors can celebrate this UAE’s most elaborate water enchanting time of year in park, Yas Waterworld Abu the snow play area and have Dhabi, gives guests the best photos taken with Bjorn, the of both worlds. Boasting 45 animatronic polar bear. rides, there are water slides MAD Yas Island is a state- for the fearful as well as of-the-art space brought the fearless. to life by the Add-Mind Sunseekers holidaying group. It’s the biggest indoor at one of the island’s seven nightlife venue in the UAE, hotels can also leave the and hosts entertainment winter behind at Yas Beach. shows and parties. Who needs snowmen when At Yas Island, a white you have sun and sand, plus a winter doesn’t have to luxurious new beach club?
Who needs snowmen and reindeer when you have sun and the sand?
For last minute gifts and a whole host of amazing experiences, Yas Mall is a must-visit. You’ll find fantastic fashion at Scotch & Soda and football fans will love the UEFA Champions League Experience, plus the dozens of appetising restaurants inside the beautiful Cascade Walk. Many international brands have special promotions and discounts, which parents can take advantage of while children enjoy the fantastic snow maze and festive grotto. If mall-trawling for stocking fillers is beginning to tire you out, take a break from holiday shopping and
check out the 20-screen VOX Cinema. For young ones, the adventures at Yas Mall only begin here. Don’t miss out on the educational excitement at Fun Works or a shopping spree at Hamley’s. Older teens will get a thrill from Tasleeh’s airsoft wonderland Battlezone, where they can practice their aim on targets before taking part in an all-out family war with the powerful - yet safe - airsoft blasters. Yas Marina’s Winter Market features more than 40 stalls of Yuletide trinkets. You’ll certainly be inspired by the delicate jewellery and beautiful handmade gifts.
Festive Feasts
Treat your tastebuds to the very best cuisine Yas Island has to offer
16
here’s no better place to eat, drink and be merry than
Yas Island. At Yas Island, there’s no need to slave away in the kitchen. From the turkey to the party puddings, whatever festive feast you’re after this winter, eat and drink in style. The Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi offers its guests one of the best festive feasts in the UAE. The majestic Diyafa Ballroom will be transformed into a fantastical wonderland, brimming with candy canes and chocolate cookies. On December 25, the hotel hosts a traditional festive lunch with live music and entertainment. Kids can get creative and have a blast decorating their own gingerbread house. Not only
A number of live cooking stations serve up seafood, grills and international cuisine. This spacious and luxurious accommodation is the perfect venue to celebrate the season, with a steaming mug of hot and decadent Whatever festive chocolate fondue fountains. feast you’re after Or perhaps you fancy a this season, eat festive dinner with a twist? and drink A traditional meal normally in style consists of sprouts and crispy will they have fun, you’ll have roast potatoes, but it needn’t here on Yas. When the something tasty to take home afterwards, made by your own weather is as perfect as it is on Yas Island at this time of little chefs. year, there’s only one place to Delicious delicacies are be - the ultra-cool Yas Beach. also in abundance at Ferrari This year, stuff the traditional World Abu Dhabi. Yu Shan customs and visit some Fang in Yas Mall provides a dining experience for all tastes alternative venues, like the brand new Beach Club. and occasions. ROGO’S, the Soak in the sun at Aquarius Roller Coaster Restaurant, is a unique and spectacular concept Pool Bar and sip on a refreshing beverage as you laze with a multi-spiral system for beside the pool. Or enjoy a your food and drink to slide unique fine dining experience down on. Yas Island Rotana at Atayeb. Award-winning will be offering a variety of chef Wafaei Al Zaham will holiday pastries, including delight you with his Arabic scrumptious stollen and Mediterranean specialities. mouth-watering mince pies. The wintry treats continue at Enjoy track side dining and Yas Viceroy and on December marina views whilst you ring in the New Year. 25 eager guests are treated Of course, the biggest night to all the trimmings at a of the year is New Years Eve, holiday brunch at Origins.
Clockwise from right: Blue Grill; Cipriani Yas Island; Atayeb Yas Viceroy; Cipriani Yas Island.
so head to Cipriani in Yas Marina for a four-course menu, featuring exquisite cuisine like roasted baby lamb. See in 2016 in style at one of Yas Marina’s elegant bars, like Iris, which will be buzzing with the party spirit when visitors gather to celebrate. Amerigo’s at Park Inn by Radisson has a DJ from 10pm, after a delicious sitdown dinner. MAD Yas Island is a new opulent nightlive venue with beautiful light shows and luxurious VIP area. If you prefer a restaurant with a view, Aquarium is a fantastic new casual seafood establishment in Yas Marina. Customers order wonderfully fresh food with spectacular panoramic views. Nearby, Diablito will add some Spanish flavour to your festive feast, in its new two-story venue that features an indoor-outdoor terrace. Finally, don’t miss haute Indian cuisine at Yas Viceroy’s stunning Angar, where the talented chefs do things with spices you will have only dreamed of before. To find out more about all the magical moments your family can share throughout the holiday season, visit yasisland.ae.
17
12 18
Where To STay
centRO
YAS ISlAND ABU DHABI
***
About: Home of the young and trendy, Centro is Yas Island’s affordable, fun and quirky hotel option. Its cool pool has comfy, sink-in chairs for evening relaxation, and the C. Deli is open 24 hours a day for midnight snacks – perhaps on the way home after a night of partying at MAD Yas Island. Don’t forget to take advantage of the complimentary hop-on bus service to explore the rest of the island. Recommended for:
Gym Bunnies
Whether you prefer a few refreshing laps in a glittering pool, a competitive game of tennis in an outdoor court, or working up an appetite on a state-of-the-art treadmill, Centro’s fitness options feature something for every sports enthusiast. After your exhilarating workout, don your sunglasses and catch a few rays, while enjoying a relaxing drink poolside. Offer! New Year Stay Package with Gala Dinner - December 31 to January 1. Starting from AED1,158 per room (double occupancy), celebrate the welcoming of 2016 in style and enjoy a variety of complimentary facilities.* * T&Cs
apply
visit yasisland.ae
19 13
Where To STay
cROwne plAzA
YAS ISlAND ABU DHABI
****
About: This is a delectable choice on Yas Island. Crowne Plaza is totally ready to excite guests’ tastebuds at Jing Asia, which cooks with wok, grill and tandoor for dishes from Asia and beyond. Or why not try Stills Bar and Brasserie, serving delicious European gastropub food. Finally, Barouk is a truly authentic Arabic experience. All this as well as 428 spacious rooms and suites makes Crowne Plaza a fine choice. Recommended for:
Golfers
Set along the Yas links Abu Dhabi golf course, this hotel is the perfect choice for business and leisure travellers alike. It’s the 19th hole for the course, which has been sculpted from the coastline. This getaway features some of the most inspiring views of the Arabian Gulf. Don’t forget to ask about the Crowne Plaza golfing packages at reception! Offer! From AED900, the Family Focus package ensures you enjoy quality time with your loved ones at your own pace. Package includes buffet breakfast and two tickets to Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.* * T&Cs
apply
visit yasisland.ae
12 20
Where To STay
pARk inn by R AdissOn
YAS ISlAND ABU DHABI
****
About: The best thing about a stay at this family-fuelled hotel is that guests also get the run of the adjacent Radisson Blu Hotel – kids can enjoy using both pools, and splashing around in the dedicated kids’ area. It’s also got some brilliant dining options like the scrumptious Mint Restaurant for international cuisine, or Amerigos, Yas Island’s finest Mexican restaurant. It’s ideal for a creative, hands-on family feast. Recommended for:
Families with small children
The facilities at Park Inn by Radisson enable parents to have a relaxing break, as well as a family-fun filled holiday. The kids are so excited and preoccupied exploring the different adventure activities the hotel has to offer, couples can enjoy some well-deserved time out. Whatever it is you love doing, you’ll find the hotel a comfortable base for your entire family, and at prices that won’t break the bank! Offer! This Christmas Eve, enjoy a Mexican-style dinner starting at AED149.* * T&Cs
apply
visit yasisland.ae
21 13
Where To STay
R AdissOn blu hOtel
YAS ISlAND ABU DHABI
****
About: Does your brood appreciate a bit of extra space? Radisson Blu is the place for you, as its rooms are noticeably bigger than average. Even Home Alone’s McCallister family could fit into one of these 397 rooms; there’s plenty of space for big bookings. Its Assymetri restaurant is the home of the daily Super Breakfast Buffet, and also serves international cuisine throughout the day. Chill out afterwards at the on-site Abu Dhabi Spa. Recommended for:
Large families
This hotel is stylish and comfortable, boasting picturesque views of sparkling blue waters that surround Yas Island. Its ideal location affords guests easy access to multiple attractions, including Yas Marina, Yas links Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and the Formula One racetrack. No matter how many family members you travel with, everyone will be spoilt for choice at this establishment. Offer! 20% discount off room rate for stays between December 19-25.* * T&Cs
apply
visit yasisland.ae
12 22
Where To STay
yAs islAnd ROtAnA
YAS ISlAND ABU DHABI
****
About: If you’ve got a larger family, the Yas Island Rotana has fantastic interconnected rooms so that even the biggest broods can room together, and if there are youngsters in tow the hotel’s babysitting and childcare services will come in handy. Arguably Yas Island’s best Indian food can be found onsite at Rangoli, and the Blue Grill steakhouse is great for a hearty serving of sirloin. Recommended for:
Foodies
Guests indulge in a variety of excellent-quality and diverse cuisine. Choices is the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant and offers international specialities, brunch and themed buffets. Aquarius is also a popular hangout and the ideal pool bar to enjoy refreshing drinks and light refreshments. Y bar is a particularly cool leisure setting, with New York urban chic interior design. Offer! New Year Stay Package with Gala Dinner - December 31 to January 1. Starting from AED1,717 per room (double occupancy). Celebrate 2016 in style with a variety of complimentary facilities.* * T&Cs
apply
visit yasisland.ae
23 13
Where To STay
stAybRidge suites
YAS ISlAND ABU DHABI
****
About: Designed for longer stays and with business travellers in mind, Staybridge Suites can also accommodate short-term visits for those that would like a touch of grown-up elegance. The Hub has a terrific breakfast with Wolfgang Puck coffee and a waff le station to fuel your day, and the hotel also has fantastic laundry facilities for those planning on an extended stay. Recommended for:
Business travellers
Although Staybridge Suites are very popular for short-term stays, business travellers on long stays in Abu Dhabi can appreciate the independent-living style home comforts of these spacious, apartment-style suites. Each guest can make use of full kitchens and living areas where they’re able to work and entertain friends. There’s plenty of space for the family to join too! Offer! Book the Family Focus package from AED1500. Package includes buffet breakfast and tickets to Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi for up to four guests.* * T&Cs
apply
visit yasisland.ae
12 24
Where To STay
yAs viceROy
YAS ISlAND ABU DHABI
*****
About: Yas Viceroy is the pride and joy of Yas Island, and it’s easy to see why. The glittering diamonds that make up the façade are just the start of the special touches found in and around the hotel, the only one in the world to straddle a Formula One racetrack – which will be the best place to be during November’s race. With 499 rooms and luxury suites, you’ll be in wonderland. Recommended for:
Festive fans
With takeaway turkeys, festive parties, family fairs and much, much more, Yas Viceroy will be full of festive fun this December. With a range of kids activities from Christmas cookie design classes starting from the 3 December and a fancy dress brunch on 18 December, the hotel will be set to inspire and entertain both families and friends this festive season. Offer! GCC residents offer: 15% off. Best available rate, from December 1 - January 16 with a minimum two night stay. GCC ID or residence visa to be presented upon check-in for validation.* * T&Cs
apply
visit yasisland.ae
WHERE A SURPRISE WAITS AROUND EVERY CORNER
Yas Mall has a surprise around every corner with a shopping experience that delights everybody along with a wide range of restaurants and a world of entertainment for the whole family
Yas Mall, where it’s all happening Yas Island – Abu Dhabi
#YasMall
A WINNER’S WONDERLAND DECEMBER 18TH – JANUARY 9TH
Gear up for festive family fun at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi as the park gets transformed into a winner’s wonderland! Celebrate the magic of winter with special attractions such as: • Bjorn our loveable animatronic Polar Bear • A spectacular ice-skating rink • Our specially created snow slide and snow play area • Our dazzling tree lighting ceremony • Our puppet show for kids Experience all this and more as the holiday spirit meets the world’s largest indoor theme park!
FIND FIND YOUR YOUR DRIVE DRIVE
Don’t wait in line, book online FerrariWorldAbuDhabi.com