The Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) has confirmed that a Formula One Festival will be held in the capital early next month.

The event, which will be held on a specially designed four-kilometre street which will run along the city waterfront, is described as a 'showcase for F1'.

In addition to on-track activities, there will be a gala ball at the Emirates Palace Hotel, where tribute will be paid to World Champions Renault and Fernando Alonso. It's understood that most, if not all the F1 teams will be present.

In a press release announcing the event, the ADTA quoted Bernie Ecclestone as saying: "We are delighted to be bringing the excitement of Formula One to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The event will showcase some of the sport's greatest current drivers, as well as the cars and teams that will contest the 2007 Championship. I hope the whole community gets behind and enjoys this unique festival."

Shaikh Sultan Bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Chairman of the ADTA, said: "We are delighted to bring yet another special, and indeed unique, event to Abu Dhabi. The ADTA is proud to host what will be the largest gathering of F1 cars and drivers ever assembled outside of a Grand Prix event. We would like as many people as possible to enjoy the event and so it will be free and open to the public."