Abu Dhabi, 17 July 2007: As the current F1? season steps up a gear so too has construction on the new Yas Island Circuit, Abu Dhabi, which will host the Formula 1? Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from 2009.

"We are delighted with the way in which construction is progressing and a number of tasks are already ahead of schedule, including the excavation of the marina and piling work for the Pit Building," said His Excellency Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority, Abu Dhabi.

In a first for Formula One, the challenging circuit by renowned F1 circuit designer Hermann Tilke combines a non-permanent section that will deliver all the drama of a street circuit with a high-speed permanent race track that incorporates a marina and state-of-the art stadia. The distinctive design will allow yachts to berth alongside the track as it wraps itself around the marina, giving the Abu Dhabi race its own unique identity.

The track will boast an average speed of 198 km/hour and there will be at least three obvious areas for overtaking.  The 10m track elevation in relation to the turns will also make driving very difficult and demanding, making it a thrilling experience for drivers and spectators alike.

"By starting with a blank canvas we have had the luxury of learning from existing Grand Prix as well as other major sporting events to ensure everything we do is best-practice and that the experience we will deliver spectators is unparalleled," continued HE Khaldoon Al Mubarak.

Following the announcement by Formula One Management (FOM) in February that Abu Dhabi secured the rights to host a Grand Prix from 2009-2016, Tilke's team has been appointed by ALDAR Properties, Abu Dhabi's first and fully integrated development company, to develop the 5.6km circuit on the 2,550 hectare natural island.

"The excavation and walling of the marina is well underway, with the size and depth of construction allowing Yas Island Circuit to accommodate more than 150 yachts, including up to 20 yachts in excess of 100ft length and six 200ft-long mega yachts," said Mr Ronald Barrott, CEO of ALDAR Properties, developers of Yas Island. "Activity has been ramped up heavily with more than 15,000 people due to be working on Yas Island throughout 2008."

ALDAR recently announced the appointment of Cebarco-WCT W.L.L. to build the Formula 1 race track on Yas Island, bringing to the project a unique blend of international expertise and regional experience. 

In addition to the Circuit, Yas Island will feature numerous attractions to appeal to all tastes and interests, including a Ferrari theme park, polo clubs and parkland golf courses.

For further information about the 2009 Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and photography or to apply for media accreditation to access the online media centre, visit www.abudhabigp.com