Abu Dhabi (UAE), 9 December 2024 – Ferrari marked its 30th anniversary in the Middle East by unveiling six bespoke and highly customized 296 GTBs, created specifically for the celebration. These exceptional vehicles, reflecting unmatched aesthetics and innovative design, were introduced at the renowned Casa Ferrari event, coinciding with the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix weekend (December 6-8).
The six 296 GTBs were crafted by Ferrari’s Special Equipment team in the Personalization and Color & Trim departments, each featuring a distinct color scheme inspired by the Gulf nations.
Giorgio Turri, General Manager of Ferrari Middle East, remarked on this special milestone: “As we celebrate 30 years in the Middle East, these six extraordinary, customized 296 GTBs honor the Gulf nations, where we have formed strong ties and earned deep appreciation and passion. Every aspect of these cars is designed with inspiration drawn from the six Gulf countries, acknowledging their unique spirit and culture. This special creation reinforces our connection with our clients in the region, building an emotional bond with those who call the Middle East home.”
The cars feature a striking collection of unique metallic colors, with an innovative matte shade, “Arabian Golden Sheen,” crafted to reflect the desert sunlight. This special color is applied to the car’s roof, rims, and spoiler, and is also used to elegantly display each country’s name in Arabic calligraphy on the engine cover.
The body color palette is bold and visually captivating. The UAE’s pearlescent white symbolizes its rich history and connection to the pearl diving heritage. Saudi Arabia’s vibrant green mirrors the lushness of its oases, representing vitality and resilience. Kuwait’s metallic brown celebrates its natural landscapes, symbolizing strength and elegance. Qatar’s deep red embodies the nation’s pride and enduring spirit. Bahrain’s black with gold flecks evokes the beauty of its night skies, and Oman’s metallic blue captures the tranquil charm of its seas and coasts.
The interiors are outfitted with materials inspired by the Middle East, featuring Beige Honolulu leather paired with Gold Metallic leather. The seats and lower door panels showcase diamond stitching, blending sportiness with sophistication. The Gold Metallic leather, with its translucent surface, adds a glowing effect and is used for seat inserts and carpeting. For the first time in this model, the front luggage compartment is also upholstered in leather.
In true Ferrari fashion, every detail is carefully considered, with the iconic Prancing Horse emblem and logo embroidered on the headrests using a special glossy gold thread with a metallic finish, adding elegance and sophistication to this unique commemorative piece. The addition of Satin Gold plating on the H-shaped gearshift gate in the central tunnel further emphasizes the significance and exclusivity of these six special cars, marking this remarkable anniversary.
Giorgio Turri notes: “As the region grows and thrives, we see a promising future for Ferrari in the Middle East. Technological innovation, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence are values shared by both our brand and the Gulf nations, and we look forward to continuing this journey of growth and success as we enter our fourth decade in this dynamic region.”
The importance of these six exclusive 296 GTBs has also led to the creation of six unique Maranello clutches. These accessories feature the iconic Ferrari car silhouettes, symbolizing Italian craftsmanship, attention to detail, and artisanal excellence. Each clutch is carefully crafted in Ferrari’s Maranello factory using the same meticulous techniques as the cars, including the lacquered color process. The minaudière is designed with elegance, featuring an ultra-suede lining, a plaque with the Ferrari logo, and a removable strap for versatility.
These special editions combine Alcantara Sand interiors with Gold metallic accessories, alongside bespoke liveries representing the Gulf countries: Brown Sand for Kuwait, Blue Waters for Oman, Pearl White for the UAE, Night Sky for Bahrain, Maroon for Qatar, and Emerald Green for Saudi Arabia.
The Casa Ferrari event, an annual gathering in Abu Dhabi during the F1 GP weekend, serves as a luxurious temporary venue and a “home” for Ferrari enthusiasts in the region, reflecting the essence of the brand’s connection with the local community.
