ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — As the inaugural Formula 1 Grand Prix was run here last weekend, it was a perfect opportunity to draw attention to the upcoming opening of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, billed as "the world's first Ferrari theme park." Among its attractions: the largest Ferrari logo ever created. The external structure of the massive park was officially completed on October 29.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a "complete Ferrari experience" with everything from kiddie rides to the world's fastest rollercoaster (125 mph), which is intended to simulate the feeling of driving a Ferrari F1 racing car. There's also a "journey through the heart of a Ferrari 599 engine," a junior driving and racing school and state-of-the-art racing simulators, among other attractions.
The park is located on Abu Dhabi's Yas Island, 30 minutes from central Abu Dhabi and 50 minutes from Dubai — and right next to the Yas Marina Circuit where the Grand Prix was run. It offers more than a million square feet of enclosed public space and is claimed to be the world's largest indoor park. Its roof — red, of course — is inspired by the "classic double-curve side profile" of the Ferrari GT.
The food, of course, will be largely Italian, including fresh pasta and made-to-order pizza. And, it is unnecessary to add, there will be a "retail experience" offering Ferrari-themed souvenirs and memorabilia on a major scale.
Inside Line says: This is one attraction that will be visible from Mars. — Laura Sky Brown, Correspondent
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Rage0329 says:
04:40 PM, 11/09/2009
One more place in the world I can't afford to go to. Last time I went on a trip all I wanted was a small 1:32 / 1:43 scale model of a 599 GTB and even that would set be back 200 euros in Rome, Italy. It was just as expensive in Las Vegas at the Ferrari shop!
rick8365 says:
02:00 PM, 11/09/2009
....yawn.....