We timed our visit to Ferrari World before the Formula One (Abu Dhabi Grand Prix) last year. It is normally packed during the race week and on the days there is no occasion, the visitors are a mix of tourists, residents coming as group to address the challenge of adrenaline rush and/or fancy for cars, and holders of complimentary vouchers linked from Yas Island hotel stay.

Whenever I get random inquiries of a must-stop in Abu Dhabi, especially those on a whirlwind holiday, Ferrari World is among my recommendations (with Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque topping the list). Whether you are or not into cars, this largest indoor themed park will enamor you.

The parade of different models of Ferrari cars situated strategically in the park is supplemented by historical run downs of Ferrari’s look and transition from its humble beginning.

Ferrari World offers different attractions catering to visitors coming with their families, those targeting the kids (e.g. junior grand prix) and for the ultimate thrill seekers (almost synonym to Formula Rossa).

Formula Rossa is  currently the fastest roller coaster in the world. And of course you should know that my heart is not brave enough to try accelerating up to 240km/h. Hahaha. I admire those who are brave to try it. This kind of adrenaline rush is just really not my department. But I enjoyed witnessing those anticipation and ‘I though I am dead and had a heart attack’ look. I can only imagine myself. Each passenger automatically gets a snapshot which is a souvenir of the facial muscle wiggles against the strong wind and challenges of screaming. In other words, that is the “adrenaline kick”.

A photo op is always inviting especially in this corner, but this one has a charge. Here’s a tip: Since it operates like “if you like it, you have to pay for the print copy”, one of your companions have to make use of the power of zoom. In that way you actually get to pose there for free. Apparently, the chance to sit on the other display cars is remote.

There are several dining and ‘walk in the park’ options. It seemed to be constructed to have that feeling of being around in different Formula One host-countries (especially Italy).

While I had my own adrenaline kick through the more manageable rides, I found “La Gara” more entertaining. It is a 30-minute show which sort of enacts the Grand Prix/race through the performance of skippers, skaters, acrobats, and more. Did you see the Ferrari logo through those lights?

The performers also accommodate photo ops after the show.

In case you have exited from the Ferrari store and decided on last minute souvenir buying, there is a shop near to the escalator which is impossible to miss.

Remember this miniature I took from last year’s Cityscape? That is how Ferrari World looks from afar.

[Click here for ticket information.]

[Ferrari World photoset]