Yas Island in Abu Dhabi is known as the UAE’s premier entertainment destination, located just a 1-hour drive from Dubai and packed with theme parks and family attractions.
Yas Island is one of the many artificial islands located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, about 45 minutes from the city center, not too far from Abu Dhabi International Airport. It stretches for over 25 kilometers, and is one of the most exciting hotspots for tourists, who can find some of the best theme parks in the UAE, a huge shopping mall, one of the most famous and futuristic Formula 1 circuits and some of the most exclusive hotels in the city.
Yas Island takes its name from one of the most important tribes in the region, and today it is one of the most eclectic symbols of the new era of Abu Dhabi, between tradition and modernity.
What you will find in this guide to Yas Island Abu Dhabi:
- Yas Island Attractions and Parks
- More Exciting Things to Do at Yas Island Abu Dhabi
- How to get to Yas Island from Dubai
Yas Island Attractions and Parks
Yas Waterworld
Yas Waterworld is one of the most popular water parks not only in Abu Dhabi but also across the whole Middle East.
It boasts over 50 exciting attractions, built around the theme of “The Legend of the Lost Pearl”, inspired by the local tradition of pearl diving. Yas Waterworld is a park designed for families: there are large areas dedicated to relaxation, restaurants, play areas for the little ones and places where parents can spend time sunbathing in peace.
But what makes Yas Waterworld a truly impressive park are the over 45 breathtaking slides, exciting suspended roller coasters, and a huge splash fun offer for your entire family.
In order not to waste hours queuing at the ticket office, it is best to book tickets in advance. Here you can find them at a discounted price, and if you want to save even more you could book a combo ticket that also includes entry to Ferrari World.
Find all the info you need about Yas Waterworld here.
Ferrari World
Ferrari World is undoubtedly the most iconic park on Yas Island, and one of the most famous in the UAE. It is the largest indoor theme park in the world, and is entirely dedicated to the world of engines and speed and, of course, to the world famous supercar brand Ferrari.
It is the perfect theme park for families but also for groups of friends or lone travelers. This is because there are many attractions and rides: from the most adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to rides for the little ones.
One of the most exciting rides on Yas Island can be found right at Ferrari World: Formula Rossa, one of the fastest roller coasters in the world. This roller coaster is known to hit a top speed of 240km/h in just 4.9 seconds, making it an ideal spot for adrenaline junkies.
In addition there are many simulators, role-playing games and much more, as well as a very interesting exhibition of Ferrari’s current and classic car collection.
Here too the ticket lines are usually very long and especially during peak periods it is best to reserve a ticket in advance. If you want to save, you can find tickets at a discounted price here.
There are also combo tickets that allow you to save even more and also visit the other famous parks of Yas Island Abu Dhabi:
- Discounted combo ticket: Ferrari World + Yas Waterworld
- Discounted combo ticket: Ferrari World + Warner Bros World
Find all the info you need about Ferrari World here.
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
Your kids will definitely love the Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. This Yas Island theme park is the perfect destination for those traveling with children, but also for couples who want to virtually meet the characters and superheroes of their childhood.
You can literally get lost in fantasy worlds, wandering around Gotham City, Metropolis, Dynamite Gulch or exploring the Warner Bros Studio. In addition to meeting the most famous characters from the popular animation studio, you can enjoy over 29 exciting rides: are you ready to ride Batman’s Batmobile or take on the role of Superman?
If you want to save, you can find tickets at a discounted price here.
If you also want to visit the other most popular theme park on Yas Island Abu Dhabi you can purchase this discounted combo ticket for Warner Bros World + Ferrari World.
Find all the info you need about Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi here.
More Exciting Things to Do at Yas Island Abu Dhabi
Yas Marina Circuit
One of the attractions of Yas Island that you really can’t miss is the futuristic Formula 1 circuit, where the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix is held annually.
If you are an F1 fan or if you like fast cars then you will have a blast here. The Yas Marina Circuit is recognized for being among the best and most modern tracks in the world, and visitors can discover all the secrets of the backstage by participating in a tour that allows them to visit the parts of the circuit normally reserved for professionals.
The tour only takes place a few days of the week and availability is very limited, so book well in advance.
Furthermore, if you want to have a full F1 experience, you can participate in one of the short driving courses or one of the exciting driving experiences, where alongside professional drivers you will learn how to drive a supercar.
The highlight of your visit to the Yas Marina Circuit is the opportunity to drive the Formula 3000, a real F1 car, which you can drive after a short course with professional instructors, wearing a real racing suit, to feel just like a real F1 driver.
Those traveling with family or friends can spend a good time enjoying a go-kart experience. Locals also love coming here for fitness and cycling.
Seawings Abu Dhabi: Seaplane Tour of Yas Island and Abu Dhabi
Yas Island and Abu Dhabi are truly amazing places, but the scenic view you might get from flying over them is truly unparalleled.
To live this amazing experience you can book one of the seaplane tours that depart from Yas Marina, one of the most exclusive places on Yas Island.
Taking off from the water, you will fly to Yas Island and then Abu Dhabi, so you can admire all the main landmarks: Ferrari World, Yas Marina Circuit and the other incredible parks of Yas Island, the green meadows of Yas Links, the famous Abu Dhabi Corniche, the majestic Emirates Palace, the Abu Dhabi Mangroves and a wonderful aerial view of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
The flight lasts about 30 minutes, takes place in complete safety, and the experience is also suitable for families. Seaplans have up to 9 seats, but it is advisable to book well in advance.
Yas Beach
Basking in the Yas Island sunshine should feature in your to-do list, and Yas Beach presents just the perfect spot.
This is one of the few public beaches in Abu Dhabi, and its vast coastline with white sands and crystal waters makes it particularly popular with both tourists and locals.
On weekends it is quite crowded, but it is a good place if you like water sports, because here you can easily rent what you need for jet-skiing or kayaking.
Yas Mall
The heart of Yas Island is the Yas Mall, in fact here usually stop most of the buses and taxis to the major attractions of Yas Island, which from here are all easily accessible on foot or with the free shuttle that goes around the island.
Yas Mall is a large shopping mall, offering over 400 stores. In addition to the wide choice of shops for shopping, cinemas and other entertainment opportunities, it boasts a good food court with over 30 good restaurants and fast food.
How to get to Yas Island from Dubai
Most tourists visit Yas Island from Dubai. This is because it is quite easy to move between the two cities: Dubai is about 130 km away, more or less an hour’s drive.
One of the cheapest ways to get from Dubai to Yas Island is by bus, although I don’t recommend it. If you go by public buses, you will need to go to Abu Dhabi Bus Station, and from there take Bus 190 which goes to Yas Island. This can take a long time.
There are also free shuttles from Dubai to Yas Island for those who have pre-booked a ticket to one of the parks on Yas Island. Here you will find the timetables. But be warned: it is best to contact the theme park assistance number before you go, to confirm if the bus service is running. Furthermore, seats are limited and assigned on the first as a first serve basis.
The most obvious and most expensive way to get from Dubai to Yas Island is by taxi, the average fare is AED 200 one way. However, from Dubai there are also many shared or private transfer options that take you directly from Dubai to Yas Island, at a more affordable price.
The most comfortable and fastest way is to go with your own car: renting a car in Dubai is really cheap. Here you will find all the tips on the best car rentals in Dubai.
Planning your trip to Abu Dhabi? Then you should check out the GUIDE TO THE BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN ABU DHABI.