Volkswagen fanatics descended on Abu Dhabi in record-breaking numbers to take part in Dub Drive GCC 2020, the annual celebration of all things connected with the German manufacturer.
The event, which has now grown so large it has to take place amid the roomy environs of Yas Marina Circuit, featured hundreds of cars brought in by 1,000 enthusiasts from all around the Gulf region.
Dub Drive GCC was inspired by Worthersee Treffen – the largest Volkswagen event in the world – and this year the Middle East affair saw vehicles shipped in from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, Egypt, as well as a fleet from the UAE.
Abu Dhabi had never seen the like before as the celebration kicked off with a 400-car convoy through its streets and highways, a logistical feat achieved only with the help of a network of local police and transport officials on the ground.
Most of the cars taking part in the tour were heavily modified Golfs alongside the occasional Beetle, but the assembled fleet also included Passats, Tiguans, Touaregs and Teramonts, many of whom gave the impression of being smartly dressed but slightly awkward relatives at a teenage party.
That was on the Friday, but Saturday’s main event was a track-driving day around Yas Marina Circuit itself. Plenty of throaty roaring came from the souped up vehicles during the Abu Dhabi city tour, but, free of speed limits, those same cars really let rip at Abu Dhabi’s Formula 1 venue.
Dub Drive GCC, now in its fourth year, started out life as an enthusiasts’ event, but it’s being supported by the manufacturer itself these days and can claim the status of a proper festival.
Volkswagen Middle East managing director Victor Dalmau is pleased the brand itself is now involved in the event. “The spirit and unity witnessed through the love for the brand is tangible and we are so proud to have hosted this very special automotive occasion once again,” he said.
There were plenty of classic models on display amid the new boys at the festival. Other activities included an SUV experience, a car pulling challenge and a drift show generating all the smoke and noise any fan of such things could hope for.
This year’s Dub Drive Car of the Year Award went to Fahad Aman, who won a trip to attend Wörthersee Treffen in May.
Best Classic Car of the Year was awarded to Amjad El Hibri and Best R of the Year (which is a Volkswagen range featuring its sportiest models) went to David Aaron.
The owner who took the Volkswagen Star title was Mohammed Al Atiq.
If you missed it this year, don't panic – they'll all be back again, and probably in bigger numbers.
