Fast car.

Expensive, too.

Ferrari World is billed as a major attraction in Abu Dhabi. Located on Yas Island, the world’s largest indoor amusement park is just minutes from the Formula One race track. It is also home to the world’s fastest roller coaster. After a few delays, Ferrari World opened in November of last year.

Initially, the reviews were not exactly glowing. Between the high ticket prices (225AED/$61) and mechanical failures, the majority of visitors were not too pleased. The reviews on Tripadvisor ranged from: “Worst amusement park in the world.” to “Don’t waste your time or money!!” It seems that people were buying their tickets only to find out that none of the rides were operating once they had entered. Harsh.

Naturally, having heard about the opening troubles and not being a fan of Ferrari, I didn’t rush to check things out. But when half price tickets were on offer a few weeks ago, I figured, “Why not?”

First up on our agenda was the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa. We arrived just prior to opening so there were no lines to toil through. The anticipation is pretty palpable when you know you are about to shoot 240km (150miles) per hour in the span of 4.9 seconds. That can’t be healthy. Fortunately, it’s super fun! The ladies in our bunch rode the coaster twice in short succession. I was ready to go for a third but to be honest, I had quite the headache the rest of the day. Your body just doesn’t know how to deal with such speed!

The next thrill ride we rode was G Force. It shoots you straight up and out of the building, then lets you sit there checking out the view of Yas Island. Unfortunately, since you are outside it’s really hot. Waiting for the ride to begin was pretty uncomfortable. I can’t imagine what it would be like later in the season.

We also rode the Fiorano GT Challenge. This ride is actually two roller coasters that are racing each other down the track. That might have been cool… except during our visit there weren’t enough visitors to justify opening both tracks. (At least that’s my assumption as to why only one track was running). After riding the world’s fastest coaster, this one was just so-so.

The other rides at the park were geared either towards kids or teaching you about Ferrari. Speed of Magic (a 4D adventure!) was surprisingly fun while Racing Legends (the history of Ferrari) was pretty boring.

Oh yeah, there are a ton of Ferraris displayed around the park as well. If you like that sort of thing.

My recommendation: If you’re an avid Ferrari fan, it’s probably worth checking out. If you’re only in it for the rides, don’t pay full price and come early. You will be exiting through the gift shop so don’t forget to grab that 45AED ($12) 6-pack of Ferrari pencils!

Remember to enter my delicious Giveaway!

xo, jill

PS. John O. this one’s for you!