A change in surroundings
So the husband and I started our evening walks together again and while the Umm Al Emarat Park in the Mushrif Area is our go-to place when jogging, I suggested we check out the Al Mamoura area. I drove past that area one day and I saw that the place is also designed to accommodate pedestrians and bikers.
There is a designated bike lane and those who would like to take some time and sweat it out would really find this area a safe place to go to.
But first, can we take a moment to admire the bright moonlight and the Mubadala Building. Beautiful, right?
Mamoura Park
Right across the road, I did not realize that there was a park right there. I have never passed by this spot by foot so I didn't have a chance to properly explore.
There were swings, a slide, and some steel bars and hanging ropes.
It was already late at night when we passed by here and there were no more kids in the area, but only a couple of ladies sitting on the swing.
The design of the playground is not as colorful as the other playgrounds we've been to around the city. It lacks the usual bright red, yellow, and green colored rubber floors and fixtures. Instead, it is plain gray and stainless steel around.
My gaze stopped at this area with stainless steel benches and a table. Around it, there were four columns that looked like they were bases for big umbrellas. Yes, I think these could open into big umbrellas to serve as shade during a sunny day.
I would like to check out this park again during day time and see if the umbrellas open. 😉
Shades, Shades, Shades!
Speaking of shades, these shades that line the road also got my attention. There were different designs of sheds that I do not see in other parts of the city.
A lot of this are are still under construction, but what I've seen so far are impressive including the big villas.
This one below is a shed at a bus stop. I didn't know there's a bus route here; maybe there's really none, because I don't see city buses here. It's roof is shaped like honeycombs. It looks aethetic, however, if this really is a bus stand, then it would become really uncomfortably hot here at the peak of summer unlike in the other waiting areas in other bus stops that are airconditioned.
These brightly lit sheds look so nice at night. The disc-shaped roof look like an a flying saucer straight out of a sci-fi film.
There are also trees that line the side walks that hopefully would be able to provide respite to those who need to sit in these waiting sheds, or the mere passers by.
Hoops!
Moving on, as we approach the end of the road, near the Mamoura British Academy, we noticed these small basketball rings with steel mesh underneath.
I assumed these were for shooting balls, but looking more intently at them, maybe they are more of trash bins than for basketball. Although, these would encourage kids/students to shoot their trash here when there's an element of play and avoid littering.
Moving forward, we passed by this basketball court that is in the parking lot. I'm not sure who uses this - if this is for public use or not. Maybe, yes, because it is not gated, but then again it is in a parking lot. Not a normal parking lot though.
A park again up ahead.
We reached the end of the road, now facing Salam Street (E10 Shk Zayed Bin Sultan Street). We were suprised to find a beautifully landscaped area and big parking space.
There were trees and benches around where one could sit and rest.
Look, there's even a fig tree with fruits, even!
There is a lot more to explore in this area. We barely covered it since it was already late in the night. It definitely requires another visit. Next time, I will definitey bring the car and the kids with me and check out the park.
All photos are owned by the author unless stated otherwise.
