Simply Abu Dhabi XXIV

7 5 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I I n an exclusive event which could only be described as adrenaline fuelled, in partnership withMercedes AMG Petronas, globally renowned loyalty programme Starwood Preferred Guest welcomed three-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton and His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Suroor Al Nahyan to the highest active helipad in the Middle East, atop the 255-metre tall Nation Towers in Abu Dhabi with a high tech simulation race. His Highness, accompanied by Simply Abu Dhabi, attended the event specifically to meet with the F1 legend. With F1 fever sweeping the capital during the most prominent event in the Abu Dhabi calendar, at a time when even the most discerning global travellers make their way to the Yas Marina for the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the biggest names in the F1 world, as well as thousands of dedicated fans, descended on the city. The owners of the St. Regis Abu Dhabi hotel and helipad took exhilaration to new heights, literally, by presenting a high tech simulation race with the living legend at the very top of the tower, which is surrounded by stunning panoramic views of the capital. Hamilton, who is the 2008, 2014 and 2015 world champion, and who was in contention with childhood friend Nico Rosberg for this year’s title before Rosberg stormed to victory on Sunday 27 November, said of the event: “The energy on the helipad of the St. Regis Abu Dhabi was incredible, and the views were spectacular. It was a fantastic evening with our partners at SPG and some amazing fans. Experiences like this are something you can’t even imagine, and will never forget!” In 2012, SPG announced their global strategic partnership with Mercedes AMG Petronas, becoming the team’s official partner. The programme often hosts the team as they travel to the various Grand Prix venues across the world. Author of Just Read It Me Omar al Busaidy, Lewis Hamilton, HH Sheikh Zayed bin Suroor Al Nahyan and Simply Abu Dhabi Co-Founder Arnie Hira Jeweller Adi Al Fardan, Simply Abu Dhabi Co-Founder Arnie Hira, HH Sheikh Zayed bin Suroor Al Nahyan and Author Mr Omar Al Busaidy