The world's largest indoor theme park and first ever Ferrari theme park is set to open in Yas Island on the doorstep of Abu Dhabi International Airport on Wednesday.
The mega project, which will have direct transport links to the gateway, is a key component of the 25 square kilometre island's $40 billion transformation into a global tourist attraction.
Housed inside a massive complex whose 200,000sqm red roof is shaped like an iconic Ferrari GT car, the theme park's attractions will include the world's fastest rollercoaster ­- Formula Rossa which powers 240km/h in less than five seconds - and the region's first duelling rollercoaster, Fiorano GT Challenge.
However, not all the attractions will be Ferrari inspired, as visitors will also have the opportunity to "dive in the deepest oceans, speed across the desert on an Arabian horse, blast through icy caves and up to the mouth of a fiery volcano" during the chase for 'Nello' on the park's 4D Speed of Magic ride.
"Speed of Magic is possibly the most innovative interpretation of Ferrari in the world. We have put a face to the Ferrari personality - one which both children and adults can relate to," says Andy Keeling, park manager of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
The character of Nello is loosely based on a very colourful personality in Ferrari's rich history, Tazio Nuvolari, affectionately known as Il Mantovano Volante (The Flying Mantuan) who raced for Ferrari in the 1930s.
Developers Abu Dhabi based Aldar Properties PJSC and Ferrari claim that it will be a theme park like no other providing a 'multi-sensory experience of all things Ferrari.
"We are on schedule to open the park with a wide selection of rides and attractions," says the theme park's general manager, Claus Frimand. "We have managed to turn one of the world's most exclusive brands into an extraordinary experience which families and fans will come back for time and time again."
Next Wednesday's 'soft' opening will be followed by a more extravagant Grand Opening in December.
Tickets for Ferrari World Abu Dhabi cost $60 for adult and $45 for children.
Aldar's principle corporate shareholders include Abu Dhabi Investment Company, Abu Dhabi National Hotels Company, National Corporation for Tourism & Hotels, National Investor and Mubadala Development Company - the latter owning 5% of Ferrari.
By Joe Bates
