While the winner of the F1 Grand Prix season could be decided by a matter of millimetres on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit on Sunday, the race for the most luxurious experience is also down to the fine details.
It could be a better suite, a closer view of the action, the largest balcony, or simply what's on the menu. Words such as "VIP" and "VVIP" may sound a tad nonsensical in the outside world, but within the universe of Formula One racing, a sport once reserved for the wealthy and now a family-friendly juggernaut, some habits die hard.
These terms carry weight, and people are willing to spend a boatload of dirhams for not only for proximity to the racing action, but the chance to mingle with celebrities and industry leaders. As the hip-hop refrain has it, from a genre long linked with all things flashy, there are "levels to this".
Abu Dhabi F1 suites are made for business meetings. Photo: Simon Wilgress-Pipe for The National
One of the first stages of the premium luxury experience is the Paddock Club, which sits directly above the team garages. It's where guests can enjoy a buffet that includes Wagyu beef, oysters and sushi, before going to the balcony that stretches across the starting straight of the Yas Marina Circuit to watch the lightning-quick pit stops of the Formula One teams.
Drift further along the hospitality section and there are those with the green VIP badges who have access to private suites hosted by companies and government agencies. These spaces feel like calm living rooms with coffee tables, couches and broadcast screens showing the racing action.
They can be used to host clients and meetings,
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