Today, the UAE boasts a vastly transformed landscape compared to half a century ago. As we traverse any road in the UAE, we encounter streets adorned with gardens, parks, canals, and fountains. Leveraging advanced technologies from cloud seeding to drip irrigation, it's no wonder this lush oasis thrives amidst the desert. The tale of these verdant acres and splendid fountains is nothing short of miraculous. Behind these colossal projects lie the skills, talents, and expertise of individuals who arrived in Dubai years ago and contributed to building its green infrastructure.
"I arrived in Dubai in 1974, and it has been my home ever since. I was just 27 then, and the UAE has remained my home," recounts Syed Ather. "Upon my arrival, there were only two significant parks, and Dubai featured its iconic Clock Tower. Beyond that, sand was ubiquitous. It's astonishing to witness the transformation into the lush greenery, modern buildings, and state-of-the-art highways we see today," reminisces an elderly resident of Dubai, recalling a time when the Trade Centre was the tallest building and the only notable recreational spaces were two large parks.
Ather, a long-time resident of Dubai who came to the UAE over 50 years ago, began his career with a local firm before joining British company Sulfer Gulf. He spent nearly seven years there, working on notable projects like the Dnata building and the then-modest Sharjah airport. Today, Sharjah Airport is a bustling hub with flights throughout the day.
In 1982, Ather accepted a position with Dubai Municipality. "The municipality operated quite differently back then compared to its multifaceted structure today," he notes. His role involved ensuring water irrigation and supply to the major parks and all fountains in Dubai. Ather recalls that 50 years ago, technology was rudimentary, requiring continuous water supply via pumps. The iconic Clock Tower fountain was a rare respite from the harsh sun.
"Many might not remember the popular elephant fountain from the early 80s," he adds. Most of these smaller fountains have since been replaced with advanced water canals and lakes. Today, Dubai Municipality manages 145 parks, including five grand parks, 66 district parks, five lake parks, 67 public areas, and two specialty gardens. Mushrif Park, Mamzar Park, and Safa Park were established in 1974 and 1975, respectively.
Challenges abounded as modern technology was non-existent. The early 80s saw UAE embarking on significant expansions in public recreational spaces. Smaller fountains were replaced with larger ones, though technology remained basic. Frequent issues like spillage due to strong winds required Ather and his team to work even at odd hours.
"Dubai provided me the opportunity to thrive in my role. I received recognition and respect from my superiors and colleagues at the municipality. From humble beginnings, I retired, and my children, now well-established in Dubai, continue to benefit from the opportunities here. UAE offers great prospects for people from all walks of life, where dreams come to fruition," Ather reflects. In 2013, he retired after a long tenure with Dubai Municipality and has since owned a building maintenance company, enjoying the benefits of modern technology.
