The huge red dome emblazoned with the largest Ferrari logo in the world is proving to be the latest tourist beacon for Saudi visitors to the UAE. “We were excited to see a large spike in Saudi visitors – mostly Saudi families – coming to the Park since the beginning of the year,” said Andy Keeling, Park Manager of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. “During the Saudi school break a couple of months ago, Saudi visitors topped all other nationalities. The twin draws of a prestigious sports car brand and an exciting family–friendly venue makes Ferrari World Abu Dhabi a compelling experience for visitors from across the border,” he added. Since it opened on Nov. 4 2010, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is quickly becoming a must-visit destination on any Saudi tourist's itinerary to the neighboring nation. The theme park brings together more than 20 Ferrari inspired rides and attractions, all of which incorporate impressive Ferrari design and technology, in one interactive air-conditioned space. “The Park is unique in the world and we like it very much. I come from Saudi Arabia and came here just for Ferrari World Abu Dhabi,” said one Saudi visitor, Nawaf, 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 Saudi visitors. The spine-chilling 62-meter 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 firm favourites. “At first I was afraid to ride Formula Rossa but when it finished I was so excited I wanted to ride it again. Just awesome!” said another Saudi visitor, Maher. According to Keeling, Saudi families with younger children were amongst the Park's biggest fans. “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 Saudi 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 F1T driver. “Speed of Magic was awesome. It was my second time in a 4D cinema but it was easily the best,” said Mohammed Bakhurji following his recent visit from Saudi Arabia. “For avid Saudi 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 concluded. – Saudi Gazette FACTFILE n Largest indoor park and the only Ferrari theme park in the world. n 20 Ferrari inspired rides and attractions and a collection of more than 30 vintage and contemporary Ferraris. n Every ride incorporates Ferrari design and technology. n The park is one of the signature features of Yas Island, a 2,500 hectare island. __
