Everyday Icons / Hiding In Plain Sight (Abu Dhabi)
No.0050 - Abu Dhabi Bus Terminal
Designed by Bulgarian state-owned architects Technoexportstroy, and opened in 1989, Abu Dhabi’s Central Bus Station is one of the city’s most impressive modernist (brutalist?) buildings. Not only is it still standing but it’s a real hive of activity servicing workers and visitors traveling to and from the city daily.
Sweeping concrete curves and glass, and its unique mint green surfaces ensure the structure is instantly recognizable.
I don’t have any photos of the interior at the moment, but the main hall is equally impressive if you get a chance to visit. It’s currently undergoing a bit of an upgrade (https://www.thenationalnews.com/arts-culture/2024/11/25/abu-dhabi-bus-terminal-public-art/) as part of the city’s first ‘Public Art Abu Dhabi’ biennial. In the new year, the mezzanine level will reopen to accommodate a cafe, gallery space, film screenings and public space.
You can find more information on the building in a great article by The National here: https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/2023/08/18/abu-dhabi-bus-station-history/