I am glad that I was able to take a peek of Cityscape Abu Dhabi before the first day ended. Being invited/ visiting the event for the third time now let me manage the degree of my amazement with the stands. While there are stands which are shiny as new, I noticed that some chose to be practical by modifying the previous year’s models. I’m happy about the cost-effective direction of the participants. You can refer to my 2010 and 2011 Cityscape photos for comparison. This post aims to highlight the interesting finds/ pieces.

The prototypes for the Saadiyat Island (i.e. Island of Happiness) are worth noticing.

(Louvre Abu Dhabi promises to delight everyone in 2015)

(Zayed National Museum set to shine in 2016)

I didn’t realize that the Ikea outlet in Yas Island is cross-shaped.

One of the Emirati housing projects.

Enjoy the rest of photos. These are all straight from the camera phone, without any edits.

I intentionally included a human in this frame to appreciate how intricate the models are considering its diminutive nature.

One of my favorites.

I wished I brought a macro lens. Ehem, I actually forgot to bring a proper camera. Thanks to camera phones.

I really liked this night frame. It seems like they are alive.

A 3D model. The color changes to blue, red, green, yellow.

But these artworks topped my choices for this year’s event. The utilization of Arabic characters in the showcase made it unique.

I wonder if the design on the chair is inspired by the same tree and if these were actually produced by the same genius pair of  hands.

More artwork.

The chair that is impossible to miss.

Cityscape Abu Dhabi runs from April 22 – 25, 2012, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM in Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). In case you did not get an invite or does not have a pass, you can visit the registration desks located opposite Halls 4 and 5.

[Click here for the 2012 Cityscape Abu Dhabi photoset via Flick]

We are still cheered in thoughts about our last minute decision of traveling to Penang despite the ifs and buts (like staying there for only a few days). It is a long story, but yes, we spent the Holy Week in this island prominent for its representation of East and West (claimed to be one of the 10 islands that one should explore before he dies).  Although after a short stay, it marked more on me as “one of my weakest spots” (read:  food heaven).

(Old Saint Anne Sanctuary)

While Holy Week in the Philippines is literally more colorful, it was a rare chance for us to have observed the remembrance of holy days in a more serene and reflective manner, minus the traditional procession in my hometown. The best part is that we spent it with a very dear relative (more than a sibling to me) who is based there alone. So, it is a win-win presence in both camps.

Staying in Penang for few days sounds unreasonable. Yes, I agree, but it is amenable. With my limitations of being away from work, I grabbed the chance as soon as it presented itself.  I do not want to discuss in details how much effort it took to take the needed break. But at this point, I am just more than grateful that I jumped in this whirlwind trip because it recharged my batteries in many aspects. If only we had enough time, we could have taken one of those flights to Thailand due to its proximity to this island.

We really had a great time in the island and I cannot wait to share how enriching the experience was. Enjoy the photos for the time being.

It took years till I became accustomed to observing Palm Sunday on a Friday. That is because UAE’s Friday is tantamount to the most Asian countries’ normal Sunday, being the sort of church/ prayer day. It’s good that Good Friday & Easter Sunday kept their timings. It is crazy to think that Easter Sunday will fall on a Friday, Good Friday on a different day.

Given the challenge of managing the psychology of timings by keeping it real since it is the thought that counts, on the other hand, I like the simplicity of the Palm Sunday celebration and the relevant paraphernalias in the UAE. For the past years, we assembled it on our own. To the extent that it was actually just a single strand of leaf, no flowers, no ribbons, but rich in spirit. Until yesterday. However, for a moment, I don’t feel proud that I was amongst those who had the ‘more fancy’ leaves; but it makes me smile when I remember how the additional sold item cheered ‘Lola’ (elderly Filipina, in referrence to a grandma). 

It takes a while to find a balance between commercialism and keeping it simple, between standard timing and flexibility; of course, it should be fine to deviate once in a while.

PS. I hope that my attempt to do mobile blogging will improve my atendance in the blogosphere. We will see.

We timed our visit to Ferrari World before the Formula One (Abu Dhabi Grand Prix) last year. It is normally packed during the race week and on the days there is no occasion, the visitors are a mix of tourists, residents coming as group to address the challenge of adrenaline rush and/or fancy for cars, and holders of complimentary vouchers linked from Yas Island hotel stay.

Whenever I get random inquiries of a must-stop in Abu Dhabi, especially those on a whirlwind holiday, Ferrari World is among my recommendations (with Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque topping the list). Whether you are or not into cars, this largest indoor themed park will enamor you.

The parade of different models of Ferrari cars situated strategically in the park is supplemented by historical run downs of Ferrari’s look and transition from its humble beginning.

Ferrari World offers different attractions catering to visitors coming with their families, those targeting the kids (e.g. junior grand prix) and for the ultimate thrill seekers (almost synonym to Formula Rossa).

Formula Rossa is  currently the fastest roller coaster in the world. And of course you should know that my heart is not brave enough to try accelerating up to 240km/h. Hahaha. I admire those who are brave to try it. This kind of adrenaline rush is just really not my department. But I enjoyed witnessing those anticipation and ‘I though I am dead and had a heart attack’ look. I can only imagine myself. Each passenger automatically gets a snapshot which is a souvenir of the facial muscle wiggles against the strong wind and challenges of screaming. In other words, that is the “adrenaline kick”.

A photo op is always inviting especially in this corner, but this one has a charge. Here’s a tip: Since it operates like “if you like it, you have to pay for the print copy”, one of your companions have to make use of the power of zoom. In that way you actually get to pose there for free. Apparently, the chance to sit on the other display cars is remote.

There are several dining and ‘walk in the park’ options. It seemed to be constructed to have that feeling of being around in different Formula One host-countries (especially Italy).

While I had my own adrenaline kick through the more manageable rides, I found “La Gara” more entertaining. It is a 30-minute show which sort of enacts the Grand Prix/race through the performance of skippers, skaters, acrobats, and more. Did you see the Ferrari logo through those lights?

The performers also accommodate photo ops after the show.

In case you have exited from the Ferrari store and decided on last minute souvenir buying, there is a shop near to the escalator which is impossible to miss.

Remember this miniature I took from last year’s Cityscape? That is how Ferrari World looks from afar.

[Click here for ticket information.]

[Ferrari World photoset]

(Perdita was caught by this basket in one of those playful times as she tried to fish the jackstones’ pieces in it. Who helped him? Her big brother Winello.)

Yes, you can imagine my reaction to be like Perdita’s when I realized that  we’re almost bidding adieu to February and I haven’t written a single note in this space this month. Anyway, that’s the same old tune so let’s get it straight to the point. A lot of things are unfolding and concluding in my life and I feel that I cannot catch up because it’s just so fast paced. On the other hand, I’m happy that I’m liking the way I approach things and situations because I seem to worry less, control conscious less, and other diminishing approaches which result in a more sound sleep… but with a winking eye (eeek!) lately.  Just yesterday, I had my regular consultation with my ophthalmologist and she evaluated that my sudden winking  (right eye) for straight 24 hours was due to my increased stress level, fatigue and the other associated facts. And she said, “well, please try to manage…”.

Ooops, the title of this post totally contradicts my introductory paragraph. But I don’t want to re-write that.  To a certain extent, that’s part of the February being fun-filled.

February is one of my favorite months because it’s little J’s birth month. She had a celebration at the classroom and those Blackberry-themed mini-cupcakes are one of their treats. I didn’t bake those myself (I feel guilty of not having/ not finding enough time to bake again), but ordered those from Blossom Sweets, a really nice service provider in Abu Dhabi. We’re also busy scouting for a tutor as little J got a violin as a birthday gift. Thanks to those who gave suggestions. Volunteers are also welcome. Hahaha.

(It took over two weeks before Winello and Perdita got along. The latter came in November. And since then they are now the best buddies.)

February also witnessed other celebrations in little ways (got promoted, etc.) But you know what, despite all the buzz, ups and lows, it all boils down about sleeping happily (just like our feline kids up there) at night! I remember the movie “Into the Wild” wherein the main actor had to isolate himself in search for the true meaning of happiness which turned out to be known by him from the start— that happiness is real when shared. It had a non-traditional  (sad) ending, a really nice movie.

Of course, happiness can be defined in so many ways. And this one could be our common favorite.

And well, happiness is being able to enjoy the little windy and cold weather in Abu Dhabi while it’s there. The recent sandstorms only mean that winter may rest soon. Enjoy the sunshine wherever you are and nurture the source of definition of your happiness.

It has been over two months yet when I sorted the photos it felt like it was just yesterday of that mid of the three-day exhilarating after-race (F1) concerts last year. Sorting the photos reminded me of the ever delighted crowd, the new acquaintances I gained over twitter and other means through those queries directed to me asking how to get up-close to the stage, how to possibly get VIP passes out of my same kind of luck in the past (*facepalm* heeheee), me advising people as if I am a serial concert goer, and other random thoughts. Hahaha. Well, with no shame I admit that I am one of those who did the marathon for the after-race concerts for the past two years of Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

It was a back to back concert for British band The Cult and Californian band Incubus that carefree night of 12th November, 2011. While The Cult was impressive for their part, without impartiality, Incubus deserved to do the second (i.e. last) half. As they say, save the better for last (at least for that night).

While I am more of a Coldplay and Linkin Park person, I must say that Incubus has its own charm and much can be attributed to its vocalist and lead guitarist Brandon Boyd. Their appearance in Abu Dhabi was part of their tour to promote their latest album “If Not Now, When?”

When they performed Anna Molly, Drive, and Wish You Were Here (finale song) the crowd went crazy. Then the biggest smile did shine when Brandon took off his shirt. Unfortunately, we did not have any photo because we were on a toilet break. What a coincidence eh. When I heard the loudest scream I knew that there was probably an emergency or someone was missing a portion of her life. I am glad I was not that of a fanatic or else I can spell regrets. Haha.

Up next is Beatles’ Sir Paul McCartney.

[Incubus 2011 after-race concert photoset]

I lost count of all the important personalities (the most recent was Queen Elizabeth) and intent whirlwind visitors who made Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque a must-see and experience in their UAE trip. Hence, when I finally saw it in person I cannot believe that it took me four years (yay! I’m soon celebrating another Abu-versary) to experience the charm and validate on my own the record-breaking details of THE mosque.

Thanks to my aunt who visited us in the overlapping momentous months of September and October last year. She made me list down the stuff which might interest her which paved way for discovery and re-discovery of UAE gems.

(The grand mosque features 80 domes,  1,096 columns in exterior and 96 columns in the main prayer hall which are embedded with more than 20,000 handmade marble panels with semi-precious stones.)

The third largest mosque in the world. We visited the grand mosque in October of last year.  There were plenty of visitors that weekend, however, we didn’t feel the need to queue or be negated by the thought of influx. Well, the grand mosque is hugeeeeee! Imagine that its size (more than 20,000 square metres) is equal to five (5) football fields. To sum up the capacity in terms of total number of worshippers, it can accommodate 40,960 people. Let me clarify though that the sum is based on the capacity of the entire mosque. The nerd in me wanted to create a pie chart to better illustrate how many worshippers it can house in the different prayer halls and court yard.

(L) My aunt covered by the traditional UAE dress* (abaya); We were teasing her that she’s got a teen spirit look here even if she’s already a senior citizen. I think that the grandeur of the open prayer hall and the wind contributed to the look.  (R) Visitors are required to remove the footwear before entering the main hall.

*Dress and behaviour code. We were required to wear the sheila (headscarf) and abaya (black robe) to cover the hair and body, respectively. On certain occasions, I had chances to try the UAE traditional dress but I always deferred it under the assumption that there’s always a next time. I’m more content being the one photographing the wearers. Finally, I tried it for the first time. It was an interesting experience especially that at times I visualized that one’s on me when I’m with my UAE Nationals-colleagues.

Putting the sheila on my top and denim was easy but I didn’t realize that covering the hair was tricky. Mine slipped several times and I had to do it over and again because the guards are keen on picking the violators, e.g. ladies with ‘hair sightings’ and not to mention the unacceptable behaviors like holding hands, eating, drinking. Anyway, I seemed pleased to a certain extent when I saw myself with the abaya on because it hid my bulges heehee. On the other hand, men are not required to wear the khoundura (white robe) unless they came in shorts and without sleeves. The kids may enter the mosque as they are but in some cases, little girls might be required to wear the sheila to cover the hair. All these elements — unused and neatly folded will be provided as you approach the open prayer hall but you must return it afterwards.

As a sign of respect, the footwear must be removed before entering the main prayer hall. It is the same protocol we followed when we visited the Sri Marriaman (Hindu) temple in Singapore.

The mosque’s name.  Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was named after the father/founder and first president of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (“bin Sultan” means “son of Sultan”). He was buried in the mausoleum (a private building inside the mosque compound) which cannot be photographed.  Amongst the many good things he did, it was his idea that the mosque be opened to all nationalities and religions in order to educate people about Islam and its art and history, and the Muslim culture.

(The exterior walls are said to be of traditional Turkish design. The nature-inspired design throughout the mosque reflects late Sheikh Zayed’s love for the environment. Personally, I appreciated the overall cheerful yet solemn effect of  the combination of materials. Of course, the precious-looking chandelier in the main prayer hall entrance is impossible to miss.)

A decade of conceptualization. After ensuring that we were decent enough to enter the main prayer hall, we requested a wheelchair for my aunt to make it more convenient for her. I must warn you that the feeling of being regaled is comparable to a “Pringle moment” (once you popped, you can’t stop), we hardly stopped being wooooowed by every detail; no wonder that it took a decade (started in late 1980s) to conceptualize its architectural design. The construction phase itself and the end result are regarded as an effort to unify the best concepts globally. It has been reported that the artisans and materials came from Italy, Germany, Morocco, India, Turkey, Iran, China, Greece and the UAE. The mosque was inaugurated in Ramadan of 2007.

The crystals and other record-breaking blings. We thought that the bluish and whitish chandelier we saw earlier was more than a breath-taker but the seven (7) gold-coloured chandeliers inside the main prayer hall were more stunning. As reported, those were imported from Germany, have thousands of Swarovski crystals from Austria and some glass work from Italy. Reported cost? US$8.2 million.

World’s largest chandelier. In above photo you can see that under the main dome, the 10 metres in diameter, 15 metres in height and over 9 tonnes in weight chandelier hangs. That’s a mammoth weight! I hope that the mosque is ultra-earthquake proof. Rumor has it that its “sparkle ability” is powered by 40 million pieces of Swarovski crystals.

While I’m not a big fan of crystals, golds and jewelries (except for watches), my eyes sparkled in appreciation. Heehee. Do you also wonder how they do the maintenance of this? Based on unofficial local conversations, there is a built-in staircase within the chandelier itself for maintenance purposes!

The Qibla wall. Being a non-Muslim, I was most curious about the counterpart of the altar and pulpit of the priest’s (Imam in Islam) stand. I absolutely liked the idea that while its components cost a fortune, it was made to look unassuming and simple so as not to distract worshippers from prayers. The niche in the middle is called “Mehrab” which is made of gold-class mosaic. Please take note of the embossed portions as they provide details of the 99 names (qualities) of Allah in traditional Kufi calligraphy. Just a polite note to the visitors not to touch the Holy Quran (Holy Book) and other architectural elements in the main prayer hall.

(Closer look at the Qibla wall. It faces the direction of the Holy City of Mecca in Saudi Arabia — wherein the first two largest mosques can be found.)

The prayer clock (Adhan). This clock is interesting because it shows the schedule of call to prayer as of a certain day. Muslims are prescribed to pray five (5) times a day.

The world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. My aunt did not fully utilize the wheelchair inside the main prayer hall as the carpet is more inviting. Before researching on this subject, it was best to assume that the best carpets are Iranian produced. It didn’t surprise me that an Iranian artist designed the carpet.  The best part of the  trivia is that the carpet was handcrafted by 1,200 artisans in small villages near Mashhadin, a region in Iran popular for its carpet making expertise. To add,  they were flown to Abu Dhabi to stitch the carpet pieces together for the final fitting. Consisting of 2,268,000 knots, the mosque’s carpet is estimated at US$8.2 million.

The inflaid floral designs reminded me of the movie Tangled. There are 96 columns in the main prayer hall which are round in shape. Aside from the floral designs, the Italian white marble adorn the prayer halls. Take note of the ceiling also.

The ceiling at a closer look.

There are reflective pools as well, however I missed a snapshot (that’s why I’m looking forward to my next visit, probably to coincide it with sunset and stay until night). I have seen photos online that the pool itself captures the spectacular image of the mosque.

Taking photos and videos, sketching/drawing inside the mosque. Whether you’re a photo enthusiast or not, you will absolutely enjoy capturing the grand mosque because it is really beautiful, each corner can probably tell a story, capture an indescribable moment and for other reasons. Photo and video taking are allowed for personal consumption. However, I would like to reiterate that the mausoleum is off-limits as a sign of respect to late Sheikh Zayed as his remains are there. For professional film makers and media establishments, prior permission can be requested by contacting tour@szgmc.ae.  On the other hand, feel free to draw or sketch inside the mosque but avoid using chalks and charcoals.

While I wrote about the don’ts of taking photos in the UAE, I would like to remind everyone, especially the tourists, not to take photos of the UAE Nationals without permission whether you’re inside or outside the grand mosque. In case you would like to take photos of the worshippers praying at the time of your visit, I suggest that you first consult the security officers inside the mosque to avoid complications.

Good news! Entry is free of charge.

Another good news: there are free guided tours in Arabic and English. Click here for the schedule.

I realized that I need to learn from the errors of my ways of deferring my visits and/or chances of trying different things which I should have done a long time, especially if it’s for free.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Daily, except on Friday mornings, first day of Eid-Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha
Website: http://szgmc.ae/en/
How to Get There

[Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque photoset]

It is my second time to celebrate new year away from home. The eve and today were spent with dear ones, cooking for them and well, it has been spiced up differently because I had a new year countdown with Coldplay. They have been here in 2009 but I was not able to catch them. I guess this is one of the blessings in disguise (no, I am not sourgraping heehee) of not being granted a leave this time due to work commitments.

Unlike the Formula 1 after-race concerts which were consistently staged at Yas Arena, last night’s concert was held at the Corniche Breakwater. I think it is due to the event being highlighted, the Volvo Ocean Race, which is happening in Abu Dhabi Corniche. While I am more at home in Yas Arena, the presence of the group in any venue may probably outweigh other preferences and considerations. It was reported that this British band was paid US$ 1.5 million for this performance and was a personal choice of the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The concert kicked off with mini-fireworks display and confetti complemented some of the next numbers. They played Yellow, Viva La Vida, Violet Hill, Fix You, Paradise, In My Place, Every Teardrop is a Waterfall, and more that comprised the epic night.

While I prefer Yas Arena as a venue, I found the stage structure better last night (well, it was particularly built for the event) since it allowed the performers to be visually (and actually) more interactive with the audience. The lights’ vibe was noteworthy, too.

The band’s energy, especially of Chris Martin is unbelievable and crazy, just like the audience’s! Hearts out!

At 11:59 PM, Chris led the countdown to year 2012.

And the fireworks display followed.

What a nice way to bid adieu and welcome the new year. Catch Coldplay if you can, every minute is worth it and that still left me with the playlist/set list on repeat. Happy new year to all!

[More photos of Coldplay in my Flickr photoset]

I’m surprised and pleased when I realized that no matter what I find myself dedicating my “at a glance” post for this blog at this time of the year. And each time I’m (constantly) reminded that my year can be depicted by several photographs, it may look cheerful, boring, crazy, well, anything… but at the end of the day, it looks colorful, challenging and fulfilling to me. I will forever be thankful to the One up there for the blessings being sent to me in different ways (even the challenges are counted as blessings)!

Thanks to all the readers who continue to visit for varied reasons including the non-bloggers who try to keep in touch/ catch up with me from a distance through this blog and to those who occasionally land here to gather information (I hope I did help). May we all be happier , more fruitful and try to be better in so many ways in 2012!