Several dramatic changes have occurred over the last decade. The United States went to war with Iraq, the Middle East erupted with political dissatisfaction in the Arab Spring, and the world experienced one of the largest economic recessions in history. But no countries physical dynamic has changed as rapidly and drastically as the United Arab Emirates. Within just a little over a decade Dubai has become the metropolitan jewel of the Middle East and a top competitor worldwide.
The following is a picture of Dubai in the 1990s:
And after years of rapid construction under Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai has now transformed into the metropolis below:
Some of their technological, architectural, and engineering feats have pushed the boundaries of innovation and luxury. With thousands of architectural marvels including Burj Dubai, the tallest building in the world, and Burj al Alam. One of the most impressive and costly endeavors of the U.A.E. is what is known as the Palm Islands. Palm Jumeirah is a man made series of islands in the shape of a palm tree which will house hotels, restaurants, theaters, shops, and more.
This incredible engineering marvel is “constructed from sand dredged from the sea floor. Palm Jumeirah is made from 3,257,212,970.389 cubic feet of ocean sand vibro-compacted into place [source: The Palm Jumeirah]. Vibro-compaction increases the density of loose sand by saturating it with jets of water and vibrating it with probes [source: TerraSystems].” They created the elaborate and complex shape of the palm tree by using Differential Global Positioning Systems which help workers and engineers to map out the exact placement and distribution of sand. It will one day also house the Trump International Hotel and Tower and is sure to be a frequented tourist attraction. Unfortunately, with this kind of construction, environmental costs are expended. With the amount of sand that was dredged, oyster beds on the sea floor were covered and currents were altered.
U.A.E. has shown its prowess in architecture, but they are not even done yet. The construction continues on as Dubai and several other cities in the U.A.E. polish up. One day they hope to have the largest waterfront development. And with their creativity, determination, and wealth, it could very well be a reality soon.
Resources
http://www.dubai-architecture.info/DUB-GAL1.htm
http://adventure.howstuffworks.com/dubai-palm1.htm
http://dubai-waterfront.com/featured/786/dubais-dramatic-dreamscapes