An artist's impression of the AI-powered water shows and glowing sphere on Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi. SUPPLIED

Get ready to be wowed, Abu Dhabi. There’s a giant glowing orb on the horizon—and it’s not just the sun. Mubadala has officially broken ground on the Al Maryah Waterfront enhancement project, and let’s just say it’s going to be dripping with drama (and water jets). At the heart of the splashy revamp? A 30-metre luminous sphere that will glow in the bay like something out of a sci-fi dream. Surrounding it, over 1,000 AI-powered fountains will dance to the rhythm of music and light, shooting jets of water up to 75 metres high. And speaking of music—this isn't your typical playlist. The soundtrack for the choreographed water shows is being scored by none other than Ramin Djawadi, the composer behind Game of Thrones. Yes, winter may be coming, but in Abu Dhabi, waterworks are coming first. The whole experience is being designed by WET, the same creative minds behind the world-famous Dubai Fountain and the Bellagio Fountain in Las Vegas. But this isn't just a fountain and orb show. Expect a new sea-level boardwalk, outdoor cooling zones, gourmet dining spaces, and curated areas for public events and chill weekends. No word yet on the exact opening date, but once it’s ready, the revamped Al Maryah Waterfront is poised to be one of the coolest (and most Instagrammable) spots in the capital. Dr. Bakheet Al Katheeri, CEO of UAE Investments at Mubadala, said, “This project will deliver iconic elements that elevate the quality of life and offer a diverse experience for visitors.” In short: it’s going to be lit. Literally. PIA/Expat Media
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