The inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix takes place on November 1st this year and at the time of writing the latest Hermann Tilke design, the Yas Marina Circuit, remains under construction with the 33,000 strong workforce working in shifts to ensure the project is completed on schedule.

Situated a short drive from Abu Dhabi, the Formula One circuit will be 5.555 KM in length and a minimum of 12 metres in width. Top speed is predicted to be 317 km/h on the long 1.2km main straight with a lap time of approximately 100 seconds.

"From the start of this project we were in no doubt that F1 in Abu Dhabi would be something different, something special - the original plans have evolved almost beyond recognition, and we are very pleased with the results," FOM CEO Bernie Ecclestone stated.

Some seven hotels are expected to be up and running for the first Grand Prix as well the marina, other parks and attractions.