Ferrari's epic theme park
2009-11-02 07:43
Looks like a massive starfish, yet in fact, this is the latest in Ferrari’s brand extension exercises – a vainglorious theme park located in the Gulf State of Abu Dhabi…
They couldn’t finish anywhere credible in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, yet Ferrari will soon have a strangely overbearing presence in the Gulf state.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the set to be the world’s first (and hopefully last) Ferrari theme park when it opens next year.
Island vibe?
Located on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi (adjacent to the F1 track), this 100 000m2 citadel to Maranello’s road and race car team will feature 20 attractions - including the world’s fastest rollercoaster.
Sporting a red roof emblazoned with a Ferrari logo, it should be visible even to astronauts, considering the 200 000m2 total roof surface.
The theme park’s design is shaped to echo the styling lines of a Ferrari GT (allegedly) and was penned by the renowned architectural firm Benoy. We think it looks like a massive sea star…
As mentioned the main attraction is a 200km/h rollercoaster which routes to a height of 62m and promises to replicate many of the G-forces exerted by an authentic F1 car.
Shopping (karts)
Some of the other (less daring) draw cards are contemporary driving simulators, a flume ride journey through the Ferrari 599’s V12 engine and racing tuition for junior drivers. All under one roof…
Food is a vital part of any theme park experience and visitors to Ferrari World will have option on two authentic Italian restaurants serving up fresh pasta and pizza made the Maranello way.
The shopping experience promises to be severely taxing on credit card limit of any visitor. Two Ferrari stores – one a heritage store, the other a contemporary Ferrari World Abu Dhabi shop – will retail a virtually infinite array of Ferrari memorabilia and trinkets.
