Klipp og Lim

Abu Dhabi is one of the strangest cities on the planet. Some 30 years ago, it was a calm village with around 5000 inhabitants, mainly fishermen. Then the black gold was discovered in the Gulf and the city grew with exploding speed. And it continues to grow. In 2009 it’s expected to house 896 751 inhabitants. The presence of international banking and finance has made the city into a playground for architects with the mission: highest and most spectacular. It’s a small city compared with big brother Dubai, but they still hold a few world records: the biggest mosque, the biggest hotel and not to forget: the highest flagpole! Right outside the centre of the town the new money is breathing life to a whole community of mechanics. Their repair shop represents a huge contrast to the slick architectural lines in the city. But for how long? 

Type: Photo
Crew: Jøran Wærdahl
Date: March 2006