Five minutes with Amber Lounge founder Sonia Irvine

Amber Lounge is hosting the most exclusive F1 after-party. Founder Sonia Irvine tells us what makes the night special.

Taio Cruz entertains the crowd at Amber Lounge. Courtesy Amber Lounge
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What sets Amber Lounge apart from the other F1 after-parties?
Individuality and exclusivity. We pride ourselves on our level of service and attention to detail and we treat every single guest as a VIP. Our Sunday night after-party is known to host F1 drivers coming in to celebrate the race finale and it really is an amazing atmosphere and everyone has a great time.
With Amber Lounge celebrating its 10th birthday, is there anything extra special we can expect?
We will kick off with a legendary F1 Girls Night Out on Friday. Our guests will also enjoy a set from the London-based DJ and drummer MckNasty, who happens to be Labrinth's elder brother. On Sunday night, we are bringing Far East Movement from Los Angeles.
Last year Amber Lounge was constructed at Yas Links Golf Club and this year the venue is at the newly redeveloped Yas Marina. What can we expect from this new location?
I am very pleased with our luxurious new venue at the Yas Marina. I simply cannot think of a more glamorous setting than Yas Marina during Abu Dhabi's Race Week to bring back Amber Lounge. We're taking over the whole floor and our production team is constructing the signature bespoke setting as we speak. We guarantee that Amber Lounge's guests can look forward to another unforgettable experience this year.
Can you reveal which celebrities are showing up?
My lips are sealed! All I can say is we have a good line up of driver tables booked inside the club but we will never say who is going to be there until after the event. At Amber Lounge Singapore last month we had the pleasure of hosting David Beckham. You have to be there to find out!
What sort of dress code should guests adhere to?
Elegant chic is the dress code. Personally I love Gucci and Hervé Léger for the party paired with Dolce & Gabbana heels or wedges.
Can you sum up Amber Lounge in two words?
Prestige and fun!
Doors open at 11pm, tickets start from Dh3,030. For details and to book tickets, visit www.amber-lounge.com or email abudhabi@amber-lounge.com
sferguson@thenational.ae