witsandnuts

To those who have missed the 3-day exhibit in Cityscape Abu Dhabi, this one’s for you.
It is no surprise that Aldar’s (a lead developer in Abu Dhabi) main office is of course oddly shaped. I liked how the scale model has accurately captured the intersections and other details. It has became iconic that if you are coming from Dubai, you would know that you are soon approaching downtown Abu Dhabi when you see the coin-shaped building to your right.

Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

The mighty Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The real structure will wow you face to face. I wonder why they have not shown Ferrari World and this mosque in Fast and Furious 7.

That is Etihad Towers (in blue, middle) and Emirates Palace (left) which were a highlight in Fast and Furious 7. Also shown is St. Regis Hotel Corniche (right, after Etihad Towers).

Another view of the same stretch of Corniche

Lulu Island, near the Heritage Village and Marina Mall. A work in progress. In 2008, were were able to swim in its beauty before it was closed the next year for big changes.

The pool of museums in Saadiyat Island (i.e. Guggenheim, Louvre, Sheik Zayed museum). These are all in progress, with Manarat Al Saadiyat currently housing the free exhibits.

A closer look. What a structure!

Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi. The official name is ‘Capital Gate’.

Emirati villas.

Planned Capital District. To house all the embassies and Government offices.

Downtown Abu Dhabi, where I live. Unknown to many, Abu Dhabi is surrounded by bodies of water which are within reach in 15-30 minutes drive.

Presidential palace. Looks so different in this photo compared with when we were viewing it from the Tiara revolving restaurant in Marina Mall.

Like a posh dollhouse

The scale model of the entire Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

I have attended the Cityscape since 2011 and it is impressive to know that plans do not just stay as they are, but are actually realized.

All photos were taken with a Samsung S6 without edits.