Takatof volunteers participating in the first Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix yesterday successfully completed an extensive series of training exercises, ensuring that they are “in gear’ to welcome tens of thousands of race fans to Yas Marina Circuit this weekend.

Takatof, the Volunteer Programme of the Emirates Foundation for Philanthropy, has partnered with Yas Marina Circuit to organize the recruitment, training and management of the largest UAE National volunteer workforce ever created. More than 800 volunteers eagerly wait to welcome the world.

Richard Cregan, CEO, Yas Marina Circuit, said: “It’s inspiring to see such a positive response from the community. Each volunteer is playing a significant role in representing their Emirate during this historic event. The enthusiasm I’ve seen so far from all the volunteers is incredibly refreshing and we thank them for this.”

Maytha Al Habsi, Director of Takatof, commented: “What we have been able to provide to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is precisely the objective of the Takatof initiative. The volunteers are given a meaningful opportunity to both assist their community and develop a skill set. We are particularly delighted that our volunteers will be the ‘face of the race’ for so many people visiting Abu Dhabi for the first time.

Takatof has provided specialized training for all its volunteers, including an understanding of roles and responsibilities for every volunteer coupled with the required technical training,such as health and fire safety, customer service and protocol.

Baraka Bin Ishaq, a 27-year old Abu Dhabi Grand Prix volunteer, said: “I can’t explain how proud I feel when I tell people I will be one of the hundreds of UAE National faces to represent my emirate at this event. This is a once in a lifetime experience for many of us and we are ready to give it our all.”

The volunteers have been assigned duties within Yas Marina Circuit and at other locations around the City. Roles range from airport greeting, hotel information customer service desks, shuttle bus assistance, grandstand assistance, communication volunteers and VIP greetings.