Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, has officially inaugurated Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Ferrari theme park, on Yas Island.
Sheikh Mohammed paid tribute to the vision of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, “who is keen on turning the UAE into a global magnet of sports and recreational tourism through a diverse port-folio of projects that will have substantial impact on the national economy and social development.”
“The ambitious development projects in progress in Abu Dhabi will help position the Emirate prominently on the global map as a sought-after tourist destination. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a quality addition to our tourism industry which is one of the pillars of our national economy,” Sheikh Mohammed said.
Hosted by Aldar Properties and Ferrari SpA, 2000 VIP guests were present for the opening ceremony and private viewing of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
In the presence of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, guests including Mr Franco Frattini, Italian Foreign Minister; Giorgio Starace, Italian Ambassador to the UAE; Mr Luca di Montezemolo, Chairman of Ferrari; and Ferrari Formula 1 team drivers Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa were treated to a spectacular show to celebrate the achievement of Aldar and Ferrari in delivering the world’s largest indoor theme park, home to Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster.
The show – titled Power Meets Elegance – blended the stories of Abu Dhabi and Ferrari through an incredible mix of live action, acrobatics, advanced film projection techniques and original music.
Aldar Properties chairman Ahmed Al Sayegh said: “Aldar’s work with Ferrari was a meeting of minds with a clear vision to create an experience that is unique, fun and inspirational. We are extremely proud at Aldar to be able to contribute to this vision.”
Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo said:“I would like to thank all those who made this dream a reality, and in particular our partners and the leadership of Abu Dhabi. We are very proud of our partners Aldar who share with Ferrari the same passion, the same vision, the same will to go beyond.”