Abu Dhabi's Ferrari World turns a glitzier shade of red

It has been just more than two years since the grand opening of the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme park. Since then, the host of attractions under its capacious red roof – most notably the jowel-ripplingly quick Formula Rossa roller coaster – have drawn a steady stream of thrill-seekers to Yas Island.

But now, mainly in an attempt to lure local residents back for return visits, the theme park is about to unveil some brand new rides and attractions.

The first of these is Red, a 25-minute acrobatic spectacular, which replaces the previous live stage show La Gara.

What is it?

Set in 1950s Italy, the show follows the rivalry between two young men vying to woo a beautiful woman.

The big-budget extravaganza has been produced by Thinkwell, a California-based theme park design company. This is the firm behind such popular attractions as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter* at the Universal Resort in Florida and the Olympics’ Spectator Experience show* in London. Closer to home, it also created the Snow Play Zone at the Ski Dubai indoor ski slope.

Thinkwell’s creative director Paul Haught explains how Red was conceived: “We were kind of inspired by the style and look of [Federico] Fellini films.

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*Correction: This article was originally published with incorrect information regarding Thinkwell’s experience, which erroneously included the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios in Florida and Olympics’ Spectator Experience show in London. Thinkwell is proud to have helped design and produce the grand opening event for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Read more about our involvement on this project here. Thinkwell was asked by the London The London Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games to review and consult on the design of Olympic Park for the 2012 Games. Read more about our involvement on this project here.