Own a classic or future classic car? Why not also become a member of one of the most elite clubs in the United Arab Emirates. Members of classic car clubs have access to exclusive discounts, are invited to fantastic VIP events and have the opportunity to meet and talk all things automobile with like-minded enthusiasts. Read on to find out more about some of the best car associations Dubai has to offer.
As the only recognised Ferrari Owners Club in the Middle East, membership to this association will get you an exclusive invite to the annual world-renowned Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix. Membership of the Ferrari Owners Club is open to anyone who owns or has owned a Ferrari, and requires an annual payment of AED 5,000.
If you really want to appreciate the levels of performance that are available from your Ferrari then the club’s Track Days give you just that. At these events you can test your engine without limits by taking your Ferrari out for a spin around the Yas Marina Formula 1 Circuit in Abu Dhabi. The cost of membership will go towards these Track Days, as well as social events like gala dinners and trips away.
One of the oldest and most popular clubs in Dubai is the Porsche Club UAE which was founded back in 1998. Membership of the club is available only to Porsche owners at a price of AED 266 per year, with extra charges for events.
One of the highlights of the club’s social calendar, which happens a number of times throughout the year, is the Porsche Precision Driving Experience at the famed Yas Marina Formula 1 Circuit, attendance of which is available exclusively for members. Here, both new and veteran Porsche drivers can receive expert training on how to optimise their skills behind the wheel.
If you’re looking for some once in a lifetime experiences then the Aston Martin Owners Collection puts on some seriously exciting one-off events. The 2016 Vulcan Track Day saw club members get up close and personal with the track-only, limited-edition Aston Martin Vulcan at the Yas Marina Circuit. Footage from that day was later featured on the highly popular motoring show, Top Gear.
They also hold an annual international trip, as well as Track Days and Drive Out events where you can really rev your engine and let loose with your Aston Martin. Like like majority of the car clubs in Dubai, to become of member you must own an Aston Martin.
Dubai is home to the only official BMW Club in the Middle East. You have the option to become either a regular member (no cost) or gold member (AED 350 per annum). For those serious BMW enthusiasts out there, the gold membership is a real no brainer. Unlike regular membership, you will be invited to a whole host of private events. Gold members can also take their pick between a number of BMW Track Days, Drag Events, and Drift Events!
Further benefits of gold membership includes some attractive discounts with BMW Dealers (AGMC) if you’re searching for a brand-spanking new vehicle, as well as discounts on Pirelli tyres and the Leather Doctor if you’re looking to update part of your existing collection.
If you own a classic car in Dubai, be aware that there are certain safety criteria the vehicle must pass in order for you to obtain a classic car licence . This license will determine which roads you are eligible to drive on and at what times of the day.
Depending on the criteria, your car will be put into a category ranging from A (can be driven on all roads, but not more than 10,000 kilometres a year) to F (for display only). To find out more on how to register and get your classic car license, visit the Automobile Touring Club UAE (ATC) website.
If you’re a member of any registered car club in Dubai and looking for insurance for your vintage vehicle or your existing collection, then try an insurance company like Driven. They specialise in insuring classic and future-classic cars of any value, offering comprehensive cover for cars older than 10 years old , as well as additional discounts for members of registered car clubs or those with classic car collections.
You can get more information on insuring your car by checking out our car insurance in Dubai article.