You can still get a behind the ‘wheel' feel of a Formula One race car, free-of-charge at the Mubadala Zone at the Abu Dhabi Corniche (area opposite the National Bank of Abu Dhabi).
Mubadala Development Company yesterday unveiled the Mubadala Zone — an interactive, Ferrari-themed activity zone on the Corniche through which fans can get a glimpse of what goes into Formula One racing and also get to experience the Formula One simulators.
The Mubadala Zone is part of the F1 Fanzone and the Yasalam programme of activities, on offer to the general public from today to November 1, the day when the Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island will play host to the 2009 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Fans can get behind the wheel of a simulator, which gives a near similar feel of a race car and can drive a race circuit at the Mubadala Zone.
"Ever since Mubadala purchased a five per cent stake in Ferrari in 2005, we have increased our involvement with Formula One as well as in expanding our business in Italy," said Sara Al Shorouqi, Senior Manager Marketing Communications, Mubadala Development Company.
"Our mission as a company is to develop initiatives that deliver the best opportunities for Abu Dhabi's economic and social growth — now and in the future. Our partnership with Ferrari shares these same aims, and over the past four years it has helped Mubadala to advance its business goals," Al Shorouqi said.
Also, those who want to catch some Formula One action live can also visit the Mubadala Zone as the Brazilian Grand Prix to be held at the Interlagos circuit in Sao Paulo from October 16 to Sunday 18 and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from October 30-November 1 will be broadcast live.
Focus
"The focus is on the youth and getting them acquainted with the sport of Formula One. It is a huge industry and there are a huge range of opportunities in various sections," said Al Shorouqi, who is an Emirati media specialist with over a decade's experience.
"This is what comes from partnering with world-class companies such as Ferrari. We invite everyone to come to the Mubadala Zone to learn more about the science, engineering and collaboration behind Formula One and experience first-hand how this partnership benefits them," added Al Shorouqi.
Ready for Racing at Mubadala Zone
The Shell pit stop challenge to put your teamwork and coordination skills to the test by changing a tyre on a real Formula One Ferrari in a race against the clock
Reaction tests to measure your hand-eye coordination and speed
A raft of F1 simulators to put your driving skills to the test and experience first-hand life behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car
