Abu Dhabi, UAE: Ferrari marked a momentous milestone, celebrating three decades of its presence in the Middle East by unveiling six exquisitely crafted Ferrari 296 GTBs. These one-of-a-kind masterpieces were showcased during the luxurious Casa Ferrari event in Abu Dhabi, held in tandem with the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix.
Each car pays homage to a Gulf nation—United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman—through meticulously designed liveries and bespoke interiors. The exclusive models highlight Ferrari’s dedication to the region, capturing its culture, heritage, and natural beauty in every detail.
A Tribute to Gulf Nations
Designed by Ferrari’s Special Equipment and Colour & Trim teams, the six 296 GTBs feature a stunning array of unique metallic colors. Each hue reflects the essence of its respective nation:
- UAE: A shimmering pearlescent white celebrates the country’s pearl-diving heritage.
- Saudi Arabia: Vibrant green symbolizes life and growth in its desert oases.
- Kuwait: Metallic brown evokes warmth and timeless elegance.
- Qatar: A bold maroon red embodies pride and resilience.
- Bahrain: Metallic black with gold flecks mirrors starlit nights.
- Oman: Deep blue captures the serenity of its coastlines.
A new matte color, “Arabian Golden Sheen,” appears prominently in the liveries, representing sunlight dancing on desert sands. The tone also graces the cars’ roofs, rims, and spoilers, alongside Arabic calligraphy elegantly etched on the engine covers to denote each country.
Luxurious Interiors with Regional Flair
The interiors elevate the artistry further, blending Beige Honolulu leather with Gold Metallic accents. A diamond-stitched design embellishes the seats and lower panels, while a translucent gold leather adds a luminous touch to inserts and carpeting. For the first time, the front luggage compartment of the 296 GTB is upholstered in leather, showcasing Ferrari’s commitment to innovation and exclusivity.
Giorgio Turri, General Manager of Ferrari Middle East, commented:
“These cars embody the spirit of the Gulf nations while celebrating Ferrari’s unparalleled legacy in the region. Each detail reflects a harmonious blend of artistry and engineering excellence, forging a deeper bond with our clients in this culturally rich and vibrant part of the world.”
A Unique Commemorative Collection
The celebration extended beyond the cars with the creation of six bespoke Maranello clutches, inspired by the 296 GTBs. Crafted in Ferrari’s factory using the same techniques as the vehicles, the clutches feature Ferrari’s sleek silhouettes, ultra-suede linings, and signature lacquered finishes. Each minaudière complements the cars’ liveries, showcasing Ferrari’s commitment to luxury both on and off the road.
Casa Ferrari: A Home for Ferraristi
Casa Ferrari, a hallmark of Ferrari’s presence at the Abu Dhabi GP, served as the backdrop for the unveiling. This exclusive hospitality venue, styled as an Italian villa, brought together Ferrari enthusiasts in a celebration of the brand’s regional legacy.
As Ferrari embarks on its fourth decade in the Middle East, it looks ahead to deepening its ties to the region’s culture and community, blending innovation, craftsmanship, and passion. Turri concluded:
“The Middle East’s forward-looking spirit aligns seamlessly with Ferrari’s ethos of excellence. Together, we look forward to an even brighter future.”
This extraordinary anniversary highlights Ferrari’s dedication to creating bespoke experiences, ensuring its iconic Prancing Horse remains deeply rooted in the hearts of enthusiasts across the Gulf.
