Since it opened on 4 November 2010, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi – the world’s largest indoor theme park and only Ferrari Park in the world – is quickly becoming a must-visit destination on every regional tourist’s itinerary.
“In our first few months of operation we have seen a huge influx of regional tourists, from Kuwait, Saudi, Oman, Bahrain and Qatar. We generally see a spike in visitor numbers – especially families – over the weekend and during key holiday periods,” said Andy Keeling, Park Manager of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. “The Park is a first for the region in many ways, with technologically advanced attractions and the unique appeal of an indoor venue. In addition, the twin draws of a prestigious sports car brand and an exciting family-friendly destination makes Ferrari World Abu Dhabi a compelling experience for regional visitors,” he added.
The theme park brings together more than 20 Ferrari inspired rides and attractions, all of which incorporate impressive Ferrari design and technology, in one spectacularly designed air-conditioned space.
“This is a new idea for the Middle East. It is awesome and it’s nearby. I will return for sure, again and again,” said one Bahraini visitor, Tamim, during his visit to the Park.
Racing attractions such as the state-of-the-art simulators at Scuderia Challenge, which allow visitors to speed around the virtual Yas Marina Circuit, as well as Fiorano GT Challenge, which recreates competitive drag racing between guests, rate the most popular at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi among adult GCC visitors.
The spine-chilling 62-metre drop of G-Force and the park’s most talked about ride, Formula Rossa – the fastest rollercoaster in the world, that clocks an acceleration speed of 0 to 240 kmph in 4.9 seconds – are other top picks.
“The roller coaster Formula Rossa and the Fiorano GT challenge were my favourites,” said Ahmed al-Sulaiti from Qatar, while Kuwaiti visitor Abdullah Ali added: “The collection of cars inside Galleria Ferrari and the cars all around the park are awesome. The overall concept and construction is a wonderful idea.”
According to Keeling, GCC families with younger children were amongst the Park’s biggest fans. “Families who visit are amazed at the number of kid-friendly attractions. Many are drawn here by the destination’s landmark status but they leave realising that Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is without doubt the Middle East’s premier family entertainment centre. There’s something for everyone – thrilling rollercoasters for the teens, a priceless collection of classic Ferraris at Galleria Ferrari for those interested in the brand’s heritage and easy joy-rides such as Bell’Italia for the whole family.”
The technological superiority of many of the rides have also garnered admiration among GCC visitors. From immersive attractions such as Speed of Magic that combines a 4-D journey through fantasy landscapes with the fourth dimension of temperature changes and movement, to the completely interactive Driving with the Champion, which recreates the feeling of being in the passenger seat alongside Fernando Alonso, Scuderia Ferrari F1™ driver.
“The modernity and technology here is unique,” said Mishal, a visitor from Kuwait.
In addition, the unique appeal of attractions such as Paddock and Made in Maranello that let guests get up close and personal with the cars themselves and with the inspiring story behind their creation have also won quite a few fans within the region.
“I really enjoyed Made in Marenello,” said Omani visitor, Omsiyat. “It was great to see and know how the car is made,” he added.
“GCC visitors who come to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi are always impressed and most of them leave the park planning to return the next time they visit the UAE,” said Keeling. “For avid shoppers and memorabilia collectors, there are two signature Ferrari stores at the park and even a Red Glove personal shopper service to help pick out the perfect souvenir to take back home,” Keeling added.