ABU DHABI // The build-up to the eagerly anticipated Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November begins on Thursday with the opening of the popular F1 FanZone on the Abu Dhabi Corniche.
Offered as part of the Yasalam entertainment programme, the FanZone will run until the big race itself on November 14.
Attractions will include a children's zone, modern and classic car displays, game simulators, a children's driving school, remote control racing cars, official Formula One Team merchandise and screenings of Grands Prix. Visitors will also be able to meet some of the drivers at a special autograph session.
After last year's success, Cinema by the Sea, at Al Sahil beach, will be showing more classic car films until November 2.
In 2009, almost half-a-million people enjoyed the four weeks of events, said John Lickrish, the managing director of Flash Entertainment.
This year the Flash Entertainment-created programme will bring a wider array of events based on the three most popular elements of last year: Yasalam Live on Abu Dhabi Corniche, Yasalam Live Across the City, and Yasalam Live on Yas Island. A mix of local, regional and international artists such as Nancy Ajram, Kelis, Sean Paul and The Cuban Brothers will perform as part of a concert series dubbed Beats on the Beach, to be held on the Corniche from November 10-13.
The Yasalam party will culminate on Yas Island in the after-race concerts, exclusively for F1 ticket holders and invited guests.
A full schedule of Yasalam events can be found at www.yasalam.ae.
