(May 28, 2012) DUBAI, UAE — Ducati Caffè’s innovative “concept restaurant and lounge bar” opened in the heart of Dubai on May 25 with Ducati Team rider, Nicky Hayden, making a special guest appearance. Prominently situated in the Dubai Mall and set to become the desirable destination for breakfast, lunch, Italian-style “aperitivo” and dinner, the latest opening is the result of Ducati’s partnership with United Arab Emirates-based, AD Group.

With Ducati Caffès already opened in Rome, Shanghai and Bangkok, Dubai now presents the perfect premium location for the latest opening, where the world of Ducati will combine with Italian gastronomy to deliver the same “Made in Italy” style that characterizes the world-famous motorcycle manufacturer.

“We are very excited to expand the Ducati Caffè concept into the UAE with the AD Group and delighted that the first location is Dubai,” said Lucio Attinà, Apparel & Brand Development Director at Ducati Motor Holding. “This city is vibrant and sophisticated and the perfect environment for a premium brand like Ducati. We are proud to be here as ambassadors of “Made in Italy” excellence, and very happy to launch this new adventure with such an accomplished partner.”

Ducati says, capturing the raw passion that drives the Ducati community and applying it to an elegant and exciting lifestyle capable of uniting people from all backgrounds is the power behind the Ducati Caffè concept, and its world-wide appeal grants it an instant passport for international success.

“We are very excited about establishing the Ducati Caffè in Dubai, I am a huge fan of the brand myself and feel confident that it will be positively received here,” said Abdul Aziz Al Dawihi, President of AD Group. “Ducati Caffè is designed for people who want to live every moment to the fullest and who enjoy a lifestyle which encompasses culture, work and leisure. It is an ideal destination for everyone from Ducati and sports (motorsports) fans as well as food and coffee loving individuals. Dubai Mall is just the beginning; we are planning to open several Ducati Caffès in the region within the next two years, within the major shopping destinations of Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, Beirut, Riyadh and Jeddah.”

Combining coffee and fine foods with Ducati clothing and merchandise, the venue will create a blend of sophisticated dining and authentic Italian performance, powered by the passionate new Ducati / AD Group partnership.