Abu Dhabi's old Corniche, as residents remember it: The Volcano Fountain, feeding the birds and hot peanuts
The Corniche is sentient. It takes on a different personality in the memories of Abu Dhabi residents. It was the ‘spot’ where some sat just for a few minutes of silence in the 1980s and 90s. It was the place for picnics, as it was the running ground for training Karate kids. It was the quiet, and sometimes, it was the noise you chose in the stillness. It has had plenty of lives to choose from.…
Abu Dhabi's historic Corniche holds a special place in the hearts of its long-time residents. The once modest coastal road has transformed into a bustling promenade, yet the memories of its past remain vivid in the minds of those who grew up along its shores.
Residents recall the Corniche as a place for picnics, training sessions, and community gatherings. In the 1980s and 90s, it was a hub for Karate kids, who would train along its waterfront. Hot peanuts were sold at traffic lights, providing a cheap snack for those walking along the water's edge. The Corniche also hosted a Volcano Fountain, a striking 80-foot cone that cascaded water into a lava-like display, becoming a gathering spot for residents.
The Corniche's development over the years has seen it expand and change, but the essence of its significance remains. It has always been a place where people could escape the city's bustle and connect with nature, whether through fishing, walking, or simply enjoying the sea breeze. As the landscape evolved, the iconic Clock Tower Roundabout remained a steadfast landmark, and the Sheraton Hotel stood as a reminder of the city's early growth.
For many, the Corniche remains the artery of the city, connecting neighborhoods and fostering a sense of community. Though the Corniche's appearance has changed, its memories continue to resonate with those who cherish its storied history.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
