The Abu Dhabi air is awash with vibrant sounds this weekend as the 2013 F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix revs into full gear at the Yas Marina Circuit in the UAE capital.

From the roar of the F1 car’s V8 engines, to the thunderous chorus of tens of thousands of fans singing along at any one of the four After Race Concerts, the sights and sounds of this F1 weekend have become a familiar and exciting part of the unique racing experience.  

This year, as Yas Marina Circuit opened a range of new ticket categories that included Abu Dhabi Hill, the Trackside Terrace and the Lounge, it also welcomed an additional 5,000 visitors, many of whom are new to the track.

For first timers, the experience has been visceral yet exhilarating. “It’s so loud when the cars are out on track! I lasted two minutes without ear plugs and then had to go and get some,” said Matthew Hazell, from the UK.

On Abu Dhabi Hill, Yas Marina Circuit’s new general admission category, many families were enjoying the open space and taking in the sweeping views of all the on-track action as the Porche Mobil 1 Supercup GP2, GP3 and Formula 1 cars thundered around the track.

“The circuit is very impressive and has plenty of entertainment on offer. As a family we feel very well catered for,” said Abu Dhabi Hill ticket holder, Jean-Pierre Kasselman, visiting from South Africa with his family.

Off-track, the colour and rhythm of the race weekend’s entertainment program continues to wow the Abu Dhabi crowd. The four After Race concerts this year have proven to be a huge success with Arabic artists Amr Diab, Elissa, Hussein Al Jassmi and JAY-Z, echoing across Yas Island on both Thursday and Friday.

More melodic mastery will excite guests as Muse are set to play tonight and Depeche Mode closing the weekend on Sunday.

The Circuit’s Oasis area offers ticketholders a dedicated program of entertainment, including stage musicians, artists, performance artists, chilled beach beats and a traditional Emirati music at the Heritage Village, catering for all musical tastes.-TradeArabia News Service