Dubai’s super parade for 600 supercars

Mohammed ben Sulayem, the 14-time FIA Middle East rally champion, gives the go ahead for the cars to begin the grande parade for the Dubai Motor Festival. Reem Mohammed / The National

DUBAI// The roar from the engines of more than 600 supercars making their way along the emirate’s streets made heads turn and onlookers rush for their smartphones.

From the latest Ferraris and Lamborghinis to McLarens, Porsches and Aston Martins, fans of luxury cars had a wonderful time during the grande parade on the final day of the annual Dubai Motor Festival.

For drivers taking part, it was a perfect way to celebrate their passion for fast cars.

“I’ve loved supercars since I was a young child,” said Ahmed Al Mansoori, 25, from Abu Dhabi. The Emirati had brought along his BMW M5 to drive in the parade.

For Phiroze Jhaveri, 53, an Indian who works in sports management in Dubai, it was an opportunity to get up close and personal with cars usually only seen on the big screen.

“It’s the first time I’ve taken part in the parade and it’s going to be as part of the UAE Aston Martin club,” he said.

“I’ve brought my DB9 and we have got a variety of other models among the 20 or so other members of the group taking part.”

For Mr Jhaveri the highlight was seeing the Dh8.4 million Aston Martin Vulcan.

The cars started at the Motor Village at Meydan before being driven down Al Khail Road, passing through the Financial District and around Emirates Towers.

Onlookers along the 30km route saw the cars travel along Sheikh Zayed Road before turning into Downtown Dubai, passing the Burj Khalifa, and returning to Meydan.