Dubai gets a glow-in-the-dark park

Dubai - Glowing garden has been quietly taking shape in Zaabeel Park for last 2 years.The Dh30-million project is said to be one of the largest uniquely themed gardens in the world.

Dubai's night view is all set to get brighter with trees, plants, flowers, ants and animals illuminating themselves in a first of its kind "glow garden" that has come up in the heart of the city.
In a surprise announcement, the Dubai Municipality has said that it is gearing up to open the "Dubai Garden Glow", an innovative garden with the diverse theme of "Art by Day, Glow by Night".
The Dh30-million project is said to be one of the largest uniquely themed gardens in the world.
Showcasing creative installations by around 150 artists from around the globe, the glowing garden has been quietly taking shape across the Zone B of the Zabeel Park for the past two years. The huge name board and logo of the garden have just been fixed on the hedge, raising curiosity among the park visitors passing through gate number 6.
The Dubai Garden Glow project has been inspired by wonders across the globe and has created several experiences that will take visitors from Masai Mara wildebeest migration to the tulips of the Netherlands.
The artists have spent endless hours creating the crafts and installations made of silk that glow at night, transforming the whole garden into a light show. Some of the marvelous installations include an African Savanna, Ant Party, Dino Camp, Panda Paradise, Candy Land, Giant Phoenix Vase and an I Light Talking Tree, which is unique with its talking skills.
A majestic replica of the Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque made up of 90,000 porcelain cups, plates and spoons; and a 12m-tall miniature Burj Khalifa recreated with 330,000 small medicine bottles filled with coloured water are installations at the garden that have applied for the Guinness World Records.
An enchanting light show where plants and animals come together in a desert oasis is another interesting attraction in the themed destination which will also feature several live performances by international, regional and local artists and acrobats. Some live musical performances have been conceptualised to showcase the UAE culture to the world.
The children will have a dedicated area where they can enjoy 'learning with fun'. The venue will also include several games and fun activities to keep them engaged. There will also be a large food street that will offer delicacies from around the world.
The suspense behind the project will be over within a few days when the municipality will open the garden for the visitors to enjoy both the day and night views from 4pm to 11pm.
While the exact date of its opening has not been announced yet, the municipality said the garden will be open to the public during the great outdoor weather in Dubai - from December till the end of April. The details of the tickets for entry are also expected to be disclosed at the opening. Developed by the Retailers Investment Group for the municipality, the Dubai Garden Glow hopes to attract over 5,000 visitors a day.
The Director-General of Dubai Municipality, Hussain Nasser Lootah, said: "Dubai Garden Glow is a unique edutainment vision which has been brought to life using cutting edge technology and some of the best artistic talent from different corners of the world. It will engage and inspire visitors by spreading a strong message, reinforcing Dubai's commitment towards using recycled products and reducing carbon footprint.
"With unique projects like Dubai Garden Glow we aim to offer an unforgettable experience for both children and adults using the latest technology for thrills and safety."
sajila@khaleejtimes.com