It is one of many landmarks that will undergo changes…

If you’ve seen photos of Dubai from decades ago, a black and white photo of Deira Clocktower would have been one of the most iconic pictures you would have come across.

The Deira Clocktower was built in 1963 and was the first land passage between Deira and Bur Dubai. It is located at the intersection of Umm Hurair Street and Al Maktoum Street – one of the most important crossroads in Dubai. It also served as the initial point of junction for the main highways heading to Dubai.

More than two months ago in May 2023, Dubai Municipality announced that this iconic roundabout would be undergoing a roundabout. Although not complete at the moment, the above photos were shared by the Dubai Media Office in its current state.

Since it’s a historic landmark and quite dear to a lot of long-time residents, Dubai Municipality is taking care to ensure the new modern design of the roundabout preserves its historical significance and heritage. It is set to last three months.

According to Dubai Municipality, the project reflects its ‘commitment to utilize its full potential to support sustainable urban development that meets Dubai’s futuristic urban and economic development goals and plans.’

Speaking on the renovation, HE Dawoud Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said, “Dubai Municipality has set development plans for all the prominent landmarks across the Emirate, including Deira Clocktower roundabout, which is one of the remarkable memorials and architectural landmarks that city is known for.”

He added, “By maintaining Dubai’s historical and architectural landmarks, and safeguarding them for future generations, this project helps the Municipality to achieve its objectives of implementing high-level sustainable urban planning that will improve the city’s appeal.”

So, what changes can we expect? The water fountain’s design will be revamped and will include multicoloured lighting. We can also expect the aesthetics of the roundabout to be revamped with the introduction of hard floors with greenery.

A very notable change is the clock face managed by Omega. The time has been managed by the Swiss Luxury Watch manufacturer ever since 2010 and now, its classic red logo is more larger and visible than before.

Why the change?

Well, the improvement project is part of Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai last year in December 2022.

According to Phase II of the masterplan, areas including Dubai Silicon Oasis, Deira and Bur Dubai, all the way across Sheikh Zayed Road to Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lakes Towers and Expo City will be modernised in order to make Dubai the world’s best city for living.

The detailed strategy, a key part of which is sustainability, will boost the quality of life and happiness of people in addition to reinforcing the Emirate’s global competitiveness.

Want to see how much Dubai has changed over the past few years, here are some before and after snaps of the city you need to see.

@dubaimunicipality

Images: Dubai Municipality and Dubai Media Office 

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