Ferrari World theme park gets into gear for October start

ABU DHABI // The roller coaster cars are in position on the tracks at Ferrari World as construction of the world's largest indoor theme park nears its final lap. With two months to go until the October 28 grand opening on Yas Island, the atmosphere inside the 20,000-square metre grounds, still under wraps from the public, is beginning to resemble the designers' vision. "We're very excited about the progress of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and we can't wait to welcome our first guests," Andy Keeling, the park's manager, said. "The look and feel of the park continues to come together and many rides are now being fully tested."

Painting, as well as theatrical and lighting elements, would transform the atmosphere of the worksite once it was all installed, Mr Keeling said. Among more than 20 attractions will be the white-knuckle Formula Rossa roller coaster, capable of hurtling along the 2.07km track from nought to 240kph in about four seconds. It is believed the Formula One-themed ride will be the fastest roller coaster in the world.

The Formula Rossa will be one of the park's marquee attractions, along with the GT Experience, which is meant to simulate a drag race between two Ferrari F430 Spiders. A 62-metre drop tower should prove another draw for thrill seekers. Claus Frimand, the general manager of Ferrari World, described the tower attraction as a "true experience" ride, and promised that it would offer "the same G-forces that race drivers experience during a race".

Aside from high-speed rides, Ferrari World also promises to offer family-friendly attractions. Bell'Italia is a miniature replica of the Italian countryside and can be toured in a miniature 1957 250 California Spider, which moves along a track. The sights include scale versions of famous landmarks, including the Colosseum and the Tower of Pisa. Children will be able to attend a junior driving school to learn about road safety, and can then climb into a miniature Spider for a controlled cruise around the park.

Petrolheads will likely make haste to the The Made in Maranello tour, which will show the intricate work that goes into assembling a Ferrari. @Email:mkwong@thenational.ae