Camels in Wathba

This morning, we went out to the race-track - no race today but we saw lots of magnificent beasts jogging or resting along the course.

Christmas in Cairo

Belatedly, some elements of a quiet family (or at least part of it) Christmas in Cairo last week.

Happy Holidays!

Merry Christmas to all of you, may the world stay calm and slowly become a better place for all over the holiday season.

December bougainvillea

Bougainvillea in full bloom.

Burj Dubai

Almost-finished Burj Dubai, seen from a neighbouring building 10 days ago. It's looks sort of unreal, I know, even the colours (it was a beautiful day!) but no photoshop, I promise!

Khalidiyya again

Further looks at my Khalidiyya view (check especially the mosque on the left of the top photo).

More Khalidiyya views

Back in Khalidiyya and sunshine, but afternoon this time (as you can see from the shadow of my building).

Protection from the rain

Some unfortunates who were not in the protection of their cars...

More rain...

Some more late afternoon photos of flooded streets...

Rain and traffic in Abu Dhabi

Today's rain in Abu Dhabi is creating traffic havoc! More photos to come...

Happy Hanukkah!

I wish all of you who celebrate tonight a Happy Hanukkah!

Early morning in Khalidiyya

Early morning views over Abu Dhabi, taken from my Khalidiyya window.

Roses are red...!

More flowers from my husband (but not today).

Zayed vaults and domes

Back outside the mosque, in the enormous courtyard.

Photo contest!

National Geographic has a photo competition for 2009 here - check it out and vote!

Istanbul people

Orhan Pamuk is a previous favourite of mine and has again pulled off a magnificent novel of Istanbul (another master here is Elif Shafak of course) - I dare venture this opinion after just a chapter or two. Read it and review here.

Ceiling lamps

You have seen the massive ceiling lamps before!

Zayed entry hall

Floral decorations on the floor and wall of the entry hall of the Zayed mosque.

Pillars

Zayed minbar

The heart of the mosque.