Landmark Toyota building has been a home for thousands and a witness to Dubai's rapid expansion

Dubai's Toyota building, a 15-storey landmark from 1974, will soon meet its demise after witnessing Dubai's rapid expansion. The building, one of the city's earliest towers, was home to thousands and served as a starting point for Dubai's frenetic pace of development. For the reporter, it was a home for three years starting in late 2004, situated next to Interchange One on Sheikh Zayed Road.

The modest room was inexpensive, included all bills, and was rented from a friendly Egyptian man, Hossam. The location was convenient, offering a short taxi ride to work and other amenities. Despite the building being overshadowed by skyscrapers, its relative simplicity was a draw. The reporter lived in a relative luxury compared to many Dubai residents who could only afford a bed space.

The building housed a diverse community of Indian, Pakistani, Arab, and Russian residents. Over the three years, the reporter never encountered another westerner. Transportation was provided by taxis, usually arriving within a minute or two. The building had a small shop on the ground floor, run by an elderly man, and a functional lobby with non-functioning lifts.

The balcony offered a stunning view of Sheikh Zayed Road, including the Dusit Thani Dubai and other high-rises. The reporter commuted to Abu Dhabi after taking a job with The National, resulting in a sad departure from the Toyota building.