Petrolheads in the UAE start your engines. The world-renowned Gumball 3000 is coming to the Middle East for the very first time this November.
The Emirates will play host to the first race of the brand’s inaugural Luxury Tour which will see participants embark on a two-day journey through the country from November 2.
Taking in the UAE’S beautiful desert, mountain and coastal scenery, those taking part will enjoy overnight stops at several of the world’s most high profile locations – the Atlantis Hotel on the Palm Jumeirah and the Bab al Shams resort.
The final day, November 4, will see the cars, drivers and passengers head to the finish line at the Yas Marina circuit, where the Gumballers will board an exclusive yacht to enjoy the 2012 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
“The UAE is famous around the world for the amazing cars that can be seen on its roads and the passion of its car fans,” said Maximillion Cooper, founder and CEO of the Gumball Group.
“When you throw in the amazing scenery and stunning, five-star venues, it’s not difficult to see why we chose the Emirates to host our very first LUX Tour. We’re looking forward to welcoming Gumballers from all over the Middle East to experience an event that will stay in their memories for a lifetime.”
The Gumball 3000 UAE LUX tour will begin on November 1 with an exclusive reception at the highest event space in the world, Level 153 at Burj Khalifa, Dubai, before setting off on their journey the following day.
The Gumball 3000 is arguably the world’s most famous road rally, covering some 4,800km of public roads, with routes that change every year.
With the emphasis on ‘Adventure’ rather than ‘Speed’, the Gumball 3000 attracts some of the world’s most desirable and unique cars, as well as participants who join up to enjoy the mix of high-octane fun and five-star evening hospitality.
Launched in 1999, the Gumball 3000 has successfully combined art, automobiles, music and film to create a unique aspirational lifestyle brand that, in 2007, was valued at over $200million by Forbes magazine.
Attracted by the incredible line-up of vehicles on show, the rallies also draw huge crowds of car fans and a host of celebrities and high profile individuals, who have driven some of the most exclusive cars in the world in past rallies.
The rally is a who’s-who get together for all those who have a passion for living and incredible cars, including Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport, McLaren MP4-12C, Bentley Brooklands and numerous Lamborghinis, Ferraris and Aston Martins.
With a limited number of spaces available, organisers are now inviting participants from across the UAE and Middle East to sign up for the high-profile extravaganza. Potential Gumballers can find out more at www.geventm.com.
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