A Day on Yas Island: The Ultimate Abu Dhabi Adventure

From record-breaking roller coasters to serene beaches, world-class shopping, and waterfront dining, Yas Island is Abu Dhabi’s ultimate playground — here’s how to spend the perfect 24 hours.

Staff Writer
Staff Writer

Article summary

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Yas Island, near Abu Dhabi, is the UAE’s capital of fun, offering theme parks like Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World, plus Yas Waterworld. Visitors can enjoy Yas Beach, Yas Marina, Yas Bay Waterfront, and Yas Mall, for a mix of thrills, relaxation, dining, and shopping.

Key points

  • Yas Island is a vibrant destination near Abu Dhabi with theme parks and beaches.
  • Experience Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, Yas Waterworld, and Yas Beach in one day.
  • Enjoy dining at Yas Mall and Yas Bay, with waterfront views and live entertainment.

Few places in the world pack so much excitement into one square mile as Yas Island. This vibrant destination, just a short drive from downtown Abu Dhabi, has become the UAE’s capital of fun — where world-class theme parks, pristine beaches, luxury hotels, and dining spots come together in one seamless experience. Whether you’re an adrenaline addict, a family traveler, or someone who prefers a relaxed island escape, Yas Island offers an unforgettable day of discovery.

Morning: Start with Speed and Style

8:00 AM — Breakfast with a View: Begin your day at one of Yas Island’s waterfront cafés overlooking Yas Marina. Fresh juices, Arabic coffee, and pastries set the perfect tone as sleek yachts glisten in the morning light.

9:00 AM — Go Full Throttle at Ferrari World: Experience the thrill of Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, or explore Ferrari World’s 40+ rides and attractions. For younger visitors, the junior driving school and simulators bring the excitement without the extreme speed.

11:00 AM — Step into the Movies at Warner Bros. World: Just steps away, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi immerses you in six themed zones from Gotham City to Bedrock, with rides and shows featuring Batman, Bugs Bunny, Scooby-Doo, and more. Fully indoors and air-conditioned, it’s ideal for late-morning fun.

Afternoon: Sunshine, Shopping & Splashing Around

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1:00 PM — Lunch at Yas Mall: Refuel at Yas Mall, home to 370+ brands and countless eateries. Choose from Mediterranean plates, gourmet burgers, or coffee and dessert before browsing the shops.

3:00 PM — Cool Off at Yas Waterworld: Beat the afternoon heat at Yas Waterworld, with 40+ rides ranging from adrenaline slides like the Dawwama funnel to the lazy river. Inspired by Emirati pearl-diving heritage, the park blends fun with cultural storytelling.

5:00 PM — Relax at Yas Beach: Wind down at Yas Beach with white sands, turquoise waters, and shaded cabanas. It’s the perfect place to balance the thrills with calm seaside relaxation.

Evening: Dining, Lights & Leisure

6:30 PM — Sunset at Yas Marina: As golden hour sets in, stroll the promenade and admire the iconic W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island hotel, glowing above the Formula 1 racetrack. The marina lights up with music, yachts, and waterfront energy.

7:30 PM — Dinner at Yas Bay Waterfront: Head to Yas Bay, the island’s dining and nightlife hotspot. From Middle Eastern mezze to sushi and steak, restaurants here pair great food with sweeping Gulf views.

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9:00 PM — End with Entertainment: Wrap up your day with live music at Pier71, a global show at Etihad Arena, or a quiet walk along the marina. Whether lively or laid-back, Yas Island delivers a memorable finale.