Getting to the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix this weekend is about to be a lot easier, thanks to a major transport boost across Yas Island.

Authorities have announced that 3,000 taxis, 82 public buses and 15 driverless cabs will be deployed to move thousands of spectators to and from Yas Marina Circuit when the race weekend kicks off on Thursday.

Driverless taxis to shuttle fans

The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) said the autonomous fleet will also include the 30 self-driving vehicles already operating on Yas Island.
These will run from 3pm to 10pm, connecting fans to key points across the island and right up to the race circuit.

The existing driverless fleet will continue serving spots such as Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, Zayed International Airport, Al Reem Island and Al Maryah Island, bookable via TXAI and Uber apps.

More taxis, more pick-up points

Two dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones have been set up inside the race area, along with extra locations near hotels and the fireworks spots, making it easier for visitors to get in and out without long waits.

Both regular taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem will be part of the transport network.

Shuttle buses from Yas Mall and Warner Bros.

A circular bus service will run from Yas Mall (Tryano Gate) and the Warner Bros. car parks, taking fans straight to gates around the circuit.

High-tech traffic monitoring

To keep traffic flowing, the ITC will deploy:

• AI-powered drones to monitor congestion and track violations in real time
• Road Service Patrol teams and tow trucks to assist drivers
• Teams from the ITC, Abu Dhabi Police and Formula One management to manage on-ground operations

With tens of thousands expected over the four-day race weekend, the transport plan aims to make sure fans spend more time enjoying the action and less time stuck in traffic.