Sotheby’s to Host Landmark Luxury Auctions in Abu Dhabi, Featuring Rare Diamonds, McLaren Race Cars, and Multi-Million dollar Collectibles
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Sotheby’s is poised to establish a meaningful presence in teh Middle East with a series of unprecedented auctions in Abu Dhabi this December, anchored by a spectacular collection of luxury items and bolstered by a considerable recent investment. The events, beginning with an auction in October alongside ‘The NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 presented by ADQ’, will culminate in “Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week” from December 2-5, solidifying the emirate’s position as a global hub for high-end collecting.
A New Era for sotheby’s in the Region
The auction house’s expansion into Abu Dhabi marks a pivotal moment, facilitated by a minority equity investment from ADQ in October 2024 – the largest of its kind in the art industry since 2019. This investment has enabled Sotheby’s to incorporate in Abu Dhabi, complementing existing offices in Dubai and riyadh. “Sotheby’s incorporation in Abu Dhabi marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to the UAE and the wider Middle East,” stated a Sotheby’s board member.
December Sales: A Showcase of Exquisite Rarity
Among the highlights of Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week is the “Desert Rose,” a breathtaking 15.81-carat fancy vivid pink diamond, estimated at $20 to $30 million. This exceptional gem is expected to be a major draw for collectors worldwide.
Alongside the Desert Rose, a highly sought-after Rolex “Oyster Albino” Daytona, reference 6263, is expected to realize between $500,000 and $1 million.This exceptionally rare timepiece, produced in the late 1960s and early 1970s, stands out with its monochromatic silver dial.
The automotive offerings are equally impressive. A 2017 Pagani Zonda 760 Riviera, a unique creation based on a Zonda F and reimagined in Riviera specification, is estimated at $9.5 to $10.5 million. The car boasts a 750 hp engine and a striking pearl white and blue color scheme. A 2010 Aston Martin One-77, one of only 77 ever built, carries an estimate of $1.3 to $1.6 million.
McLaren Racing’s ‘Triple Crown’ Project
In a particularly exciting advancement, RM Sotheby’s has partnered with McLaren Racing to offer three competition cars from the team’s racing portfolio. Announced during Monterey Car Week by McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown, the ‘Triple Crown’ project includes a 2026 McLaren Formula 1 Team car, a 2027 McLaren United AS racer from the World Endurance Championship, and a 2026 Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team Indianapolis 500 race-driven INDYCAR. These vehicles will be auctioned on december 5th, coinciding with the final Formula 1 race of the season. Prosperous bidders will receive exclusive experiences, including tours of McLaren facilities, VIP tickets, and access to purchase options for McLaren road and race cars.
A Single-Owner Collection and Wider Context
A single-owner collection of jewelry and watches, amassed over decades, will serve as a centerpiece of Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week, with an estimated value exceeding $20 million. The collection features a combination of rare diamonds, gemstones, and signed pieces from renowned jewellers, alongside both vintage and modern timepieces.
The timing of Collectors’ Week strategically coincides with several other high-profile events, including the Formula One Grand Prix, the Milken Institute Middle East and Africa Summit 2025, Abu Dhabi Finance Week, and Bitcoin MENA, further amplifying Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a global destination for luxury and investment. According to a senior official,the Middle East – and the UAE in particular – is “one of the most dynamic drivers of the luxury industry,” making Abu Dhabi the ideal location for this unprecedented event.
Sale highlights will be showcased at Sotheby’s locations worldwide prior to the auctions, maximizing global reach and attracting a diverse pool of bidders. ADIO, responsible for accelerating Abu Dhabi’s economic growth, is committed to fostering a luxury retail landscape centered around consumer experiences and a thriving collector’s market.
