Yas Island can often seem quite deserted and lacking in excitement outside the fun parks, mall and Ferrari World. But all of that changes dramatically for one long weekend when the Formula 1 circuit comes to the island. The eyes of the world were on the Yas Marina Circuit as the season reached its final race to decide the drivers’ championship. But there was nothing like being there. The engines on the cars may not screech like they used to, but all the thrills are still plentiful. And Lewis Hamilton thrilled the crowd by taking the lead on the first corner after an amazing start.

The race unashamedly targets the high end crowd and there is no bad view at the circuit from the main grandstand to the hill. The weekend started with practice sessions, then qualifying and then the race itself. The atmosphere intensified over the three days as the crowds got thicker and the excitement built up and up. But there was so much more than just the race. The entertainment was relentless. The villages around the stands offered merchandise, music, dancing, art displays, car showrooms and interviews with experts and former drivers among other attractions so that there was never a dull moment during the day. Once the race sessions ended each evening then the crowd moved on to the du Arena for concerts by Armin Van Buuren then Pharrell Williams and then the mighty Who kicked off their 50th anniversary world tour after the race itself, thrilling the crowd with their greatest hits. The island never slept, being packed until the early hours with nightclubs keeping you going all night . Add to this mix the presence of UAE royalty, Prince Harry encouraging his fellow countrymen, F1 legends such as Niki Lauda, Mark Weber and Damon Hill and pop stars such as Nicole Scherzinger and Gerri Halliwell it could not have had more glamour. And Lewis held on for victory in the race, win the title and crack open the non-alcoholic fizz which replaces champagne for this event. This really is a “must see” event for anyone in the UAE and further afield. Apparently when Bernie Ecclestone first saw the Yas circuit he said “It may well be equaled, but will never be bettered.”