The United Arab Emirates is a man-made wonder. The builders of this rich country have spared no effort or expense to create a vibrant and luxurious oasis in the middle of the desert. Every year, millions of tourists visit the country and feel awestruck by the majestic views of cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The latter, in particular, holds many beautiful architectural marvels carved in white stone. Now, the city can boast of another real estate wonder that bears a close connection with surfing legend Kelly Slater.
The 11-time World Surf League champion has launched the Kelly Slater Wave Company to bring the joys of barrel riding to all. Now, he has partnered with Modon Properties in Abu Dhabi, known as one of the biggest real estate moguls in the Middle East. With his expertise, the developers have created an ultra-modern surfing facility that is gracing the skyline of the great city.
Kelly Slater and Modon Properties gift Abu Dhabi the pleasure of surfing
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When entering Abu Dhabi via flight, the eyes of the passengers will be drawn to a one-of-a-kind surfing facility. This facility will be called Surf Abu Dhabi and will come with advanced features to cater to all kinds of surfers. It is the largest wave pool anywhere in the world. Arab News spoke with Kelly Slater, who explained his mission, saying, ?When we opened the first wave, the mystery it created and excitement that ensued was something I?m not sure many have experienced?.
Thus, he wishes to make surfing accessible to all, no matter where they live. In this regard, Slater also said, ?Having a KSWC wave in Abu Dhabi is something I?ve never dreamt would happen, but here it is. Unbelievable?. The surfing facility is located on Hudayriyat Island and will open to the public later this year.
Abu Dhabi is adding many more sporting facilities to its repertoire, including a 3500-seater velodrome for holding cycling competitions. Kelly Slater has undoubtedly surprised everyone by choosing Abu Dhabi for this enterprise. However, he later revealed that there are some unexplored synergies between KSWC and Modon Properties that prevailed over the decision-making process.
Surfing sensation explains his reasons
Kelly Slater saw an opportunity for the fulfillment of his mission in the city?s willingness to upgrade its sporting infrastructure. Just like the developers in Abu Dhabi, the surfing giant also wants to promote his sport. Therefore, he joined forces with Modon Properties to turn his vision into reality.
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Modon Properties? CEO Bill O?Regan said, ?Our role is to support the growth of Abu Dhabi?s ambitions and sports asset development strategy, which is contributing toward a legacy of sporting excellence?.
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He believes that the premier surfing facility in the city will attract more world-class surfers like Slater to the Middle East. Thus, Surf Abu Dhabi has ambitions to hold major surf competitions in the future. Aside from sporting goals, O?Regan believes that Abu Dhabi?s tourism, hospitality, and commercial industries will also benefit from this project.
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