DUBAI // The rain may have kept the crowds away from the Dubai International Garden Competition Friday morning but not the die-hard gardeners.
A small number of people turned out to view the landscaping designs at Downtown Dubai’s Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard.
Thirteen regional and global companies are taking part in the competition, which began on Thursday and runs until Sunday.
The event, the UAE’s first landscaping competition, was created to showcase the beauty of Dubai’s gardening masterpieces to the region and the world.
It brings together landscapers, architects, designers, botanists, engineers, scientists, and property experts.
Many visitors said they came because of their interest in flora.
“I am interested in gardening and growing plants,” said Qiang Ge, a Chinese expatriate who lives in The Springs. “I have a business interest and have got new ideas for my garden now.”
A couple said they were looking for ideas for decorating their own garden. “We like gardening and are always looking at new ways to do it up,” said Mary Ann, a Filipino who has a small garden in her villa.
But not everyone turned up for the flora. Ximena Perez said she was out to enjoy a walk with her dogs.
“We just came for a Friday morning outing,” said the Mexican expatriate who lives in Downtown Dubai. “We are not really into landscaping.”
The rain dampened some outdoor furniture that had been laid out by companies as part of their landscape design and some were covered to prevent further damage.
But some people said the rain was of help rather than a hindrance.
“It is good that it has rained,” said Imran P, a civil engineer at Falcon Crest, which was looking to attract customers and construction companies with its display of landscaping, a spanish bar and jacuzzi.
“It has helped our plants. We use natural grass, wood and rocks. With less space, we can make gardens.”
They were hoping more people would visit in the next couple of days.
Akar, another company, said its specialty was growing aromatic plants for medicinal use.
“We have a green house of vegetables such as pepper, green chillies and cucumber at the Miracle Garden in Dubai,” said a company representative.
“Visitors can pick fresh and organic vegetables and we can make a meal from it.”
The competition is held under the patronage of Dubai Municipality. The organisers said they hoped visitors would enjoy a family outing and enjoy the natural beauty.
Fun City, an entertainment centre, is hosting activities for children. The attractions include the Lokrit garden village and grand floral arena stall.
pkannan@thenational.ae
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