Dubai 2003 chauffeurs trained by world class Audi driving experts

Audi is supplying 250 of its flagship model, the luxurious A8, to transport VIP delegates in supreme comfort and style during the event. The training is currently underway at Dubai Transport headquarters on a custom made track.

The Audi driving experts, from the Audi Driving Experience department in Germany, will deliver hands-on instruction that enables participants to explore the A8's driving potential for themselves while learning new driving skills with the emphasis on comfort and safety. The chauffeurs will then have the chance to put the car through its paces on a custom made track designed by Audi.

"As the flagship of the brand, the Audi A8 is the embodiment of the Audi driving experience. As such we are conducting this training to make sure the drivers are able to maximise the delegates' experience of the A8's luxury features and that they are transported in the highest levels of comfort and safety", said Ali Bilaloglu, managing director Audi Middle East and Egypt.

Ibrahim Belselah, General Coordinator, Dubai 2003, said: "Handling a performance car like this is challenging to many, and these drivers must be as comfortable driving the car as they are with the roads and locations and security procedures. They must know how to react in any situation. We are confident that with Audi's expertise and specialist training will ensure that these drivers are in position to be the perfect chauffeurs to the delegates."

Audi's limousine service has been responsible for the luxurious transport of politicians, royalty and business leaders at the most prominent international events across the world. Most recently in Prague, where the brand with the four ring badge was the choice for the NATO Summit and at the event marking the end of Denmark's presidency of the EU on December 12 and 13 in Copenhagen. The A8 has also been deployed for the Greek presidency of the EU in the first half of 2003 and at sporting and cultural events such as the Kiel Regatta, the Salzburg Festival and the Cannes Film Festival.

From mid September the new Audi A8 will become a regular fixture on the roads of Dubai as they transport VIPs from hotels to the Dubai International Convention Centre and other venues in the city.

The Annual Meetings of the Boards of Governors of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund were first held in Washington DC in 1946. They are hosted by an international city one year in three. The UAE and Dubai were selected because of their highly developed transportation and logistics infrastructure, growing importance as a financial hub and its established position as an oasis of opportunity.