Watch: Stopping Over At Surf Abu Dhabi

Stu Nettle picture
Stu Nettle (stunet)
Reels

With a scheduled layover in Abu Dhabi, Dylan Graves casts for a nibble and receives an oversized bite. Lands himself on Hudayriyat Island to watch Slater's first wave at his second pool, even gets a few runs of the tub himself.

In this clip it's easy to see the wave is slightly larger than Lemoore and arguably hollower, though of equal interest are the pulled back shots that show the whitewater quickly reforming into deep water. What follows is another marked difference from Lemoore: The whitewater backs off then reforms on the inside in a beginners wave, increasing the overall wave count and making it more accesible to outright learners.

This is, no doubt, a result of the 'W' reef shape seen in the aerial view of the pool [Editor's Note: Did you already explain this TBB? Can't recall...]

 

Comments

BBrowny's picture
BBrowny's picture
BBrowny Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 7:41am

One video from the wilds of Shipstern Bluff the next one from the most artificial wave in the world. Crazy world.

Craig's picture
Craig's picture
Craig Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 8:33am

You can also see at 5:44s the water surging and running into the gutter, reducing reverb and reflecting waves once the main wave has passed. I.e. quicker reset times.

billie's picture
billie's picture
billie Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 11:06pm

Cool!

wally's picture
wally's picture
wally Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 9:26am

I’m a little surprised they haven’t made more of an effort to make the wave maker, the hydrofoil, a bit more visually pleasing.
They could paint it a more pleasant colour, or paint it to look like a choo choo train or a viking longboat.

Jono's picture
Jono's picture
Jono Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 9:29am

Haa good call, possibly with an effigy of KS as the train driver, or the viking captain.

zenagain's picture
zenagain's picture
zenagain Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 12:06pm

They could do a Thomas and change it to Kellys face.

basesix's picture
basesix's picture
basesix Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 12:24pm

haha, terrifying!
(Get On the Abudhabi Train)

billie's picture
billie's picture
billie Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 11:06pm

HAHAHAHA

Gowsa's picture
Gowsa's picture
Gowsa Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 10:00am

Will the Arabas will throw some money at the WSL to host an event ?

Komodo's picture
Komodo's picture
Komodo Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 10:13am

Mega!

stinky_wes's picture
stinky_wes's picture
stinky_wes Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 11:30am

With seemingly endless funding, could they possibly have created a second pool on the other side of the hydrofoil to create a mirror image wave? It would double the amount of waves for a similar energy input

Godarren's picture
Godarren's picture
Godarren Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 12:42pm

Hmmmm - that view down the line of the mechanical beast is way too far removed from how I derive my core enjoyment from surfing and being in the salty brine.

Roadkill's picture
Roadkill's picture
Roadkill Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 12:42pm

I look forward to the Abu Dhabi woman's open.

Gowsa's picture
Gowsa's picture
Gowsa Tuesday, 21 Nov 2023 at 3:54pm

Abu Dhabi Open....It will be like the Tennis
The Women only have to catch 3 waves to the mens 5 waves.....
For the same prize money.

rob tas's picture
rob tas's picture
rob tas Wednesday, 22 Nov 2023 at 7:26am

there are different perspectives on women in the UAE (this is the big worry - i.e. will Steph be the last woman to surf the wave? will UAE women get in there?) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women_in_the_United_Arab_Emirates

wally's picture
wally's picture
wally Wednesday, 22 Nov 2023 at 9:16am

It is quite OK for non-Muslim women to wear a bikini at resort pools in the UAE so the wave pool should be no problem. I don’t know the pool rules for Muslim women.

dawnperiscope's picture
dawnperiscope's picture
dawnperiscope Wednesday, 22 Nov 2023 at 9:19am

Can't see it being an issue for WSL or UAE. Will be a case of...
"These are my beliefs and morals, but if we can make money together, I have others."

Bungan33's picture
Bungan33's picture
Bungan33 Wednesday, 22 Nov 2023 at 9:38am

Wave Pool Project Team Meeting #1 - Ideation Phase: Transcript.
"Hey....I know the planets burning due to fossil fuel use, and economic disparity and elitism makes me uncomfortable, and the disconnection between humans and nature is at the core of our existential and ecological problems......but Ive got this great idea...."

udo's picture
udo's picture
udo Wednesday, 22 Nov 2023 at 11:30am

@29 mins .....a bit on Slaters Future Wave Park Dreams...
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wire-by-firewire-surfboards/id...

basesix's picture
basesix's picture
basesix Wednesday, 22 Nov 2023 at 5:31pm

Following Greg Norman empire model I reckon, more than 10% of GN courses are in florida ; ) -100 wave pools by age 70 https://gngcd.com/

Andrew P's picture
Andrew P's picture
Andrew P Wednesday, 22 Nov 2023 at 12:16pm

My overwhelming thought watching that vid - Where's ELo?

zenagain's picture
zenagain's picture
zenagain Wednesday, 22 Nov 2023 at 1:48pm

Plotting his revenge?

truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher Wednesday, 22 Nov 2023 at 2:16pm

It's wot ya don't see over & over that tells the story...

400m distant speck of desert grit Gold Medal Claim ain't gonna be tossin' apple watches to Gromz.

There is nowhere else to squint a GOAT's rear view splash but from risking the wild pool side.
Whole town flees the $Gazillion Wave Palace to line the bore shore like sacrificial Village Idiots.
All refuse to notice that subtle telltale wet patch crossing the path at base of Lifeguard Stand.

All can time Demo wave to Kelly's Wave (Whole 1 second Slower from White > Red flags)
Modon Pool Test Bully knows Kelly's Wave is packing & sees this wave coming over the path.

Exactly were Billabong Bath Robed Kaseberger sandaled Grom Prince is droolin' over his pet Goat.
Dylan susses it as Modon Pool Bully's eyes are firmly fixed on whip tail of incoming Clean up set.
Watch as Modon Pool Bully leans in further > further > Oh shit...Hey Boss!
See Pool Boy 2 has his back to the wave...Gets his wake up call a second too late...Bummer!

(Plan B) Dylan takes the hint & instinctively absolves himself by swinging back to Star of the show Kelly.
Seconds on...that too is off limits...Whole show goes blank until the crew mop up the mess.

Minutes later ... we pick up the GOAT on his comeback special.
Let's see if Dylan can get a full run this time...(Cross fingers!)

Return Left...Sheiks have retired to launder their Billabong wading Robes/Spongy Kaseberger Sandals.
Flood survivors camp behind pool as Kelly passes...again just as wave teams ashore...(Censor #2)

Olympic Gods crash on first rides (So no need to edit out their Right hand shories)
Olympic Gods go Left...(Shorie is edited out. + Shorie is edited out again!)

Dylan goes undercover for inside scoop on shore break...like wotz with GOAT's Shorie Phobia.
Not once but twice > Pool Bully Kelly bumps Dylan's rides 10 Pillars short of Shorie.

Only at very end of film is one rear far off distant rear blip shot of Kelly hummin' a Left ashore...
We all see wave keeps runnin' where it's supposed to be dead already.
Sure! Can double Check Dylan's Pov Barrel with view of Tyres piled up for Jet Ski ejection seat.

So why all these Shorebreak censors on Dylan's wave pool flick?
No way was he leaving the compound with any contraband Shorebreak footage.

All plainly see Kelly's heavy salty brew is rolling in harder & heavier than desired...
Check anywhere anytime & the Pool is bubbling over...easily go bigger but Pool can't contain this lot!

Stu & crew instinctively know such as Stu included the Bonus Pro [L] Big W surf vid...Run! Run faster!

Being serious...Grom'z Mum weeps as her son is rag dolled into Ready Mix Fillets...Help! Please HELP!
Coach : 'The Grom Prince has got huge potential as the next Golden Breed Fish Finger!"
Abu Dhabi Beginners win Swift Water Rescue Bravery Awards if they Survive the Killer wading pool!

Pool Rules : [ Pro Show Ponies gotta remove leggies before Death Spiralling into Gromz Malestrom ]
Pro River Bore sacrificerz are droolin' at Kelly's overbite....Yes Please Master! Pick Me! Pick Me!

Big W promise of Beginner waves is looking absolutely terrifying...just lost another one...Bummer!
Modon ain't got no fancy official World Surfing Insurance ...so don't need any crime scenes as yet!

So are these Hyper Powered Wave Pools a new fad...Hell No! Thank God! Quit droolin'

1936 Portobello's Wave Pool God Brownie regurgitated waves half way back for a massive rip bowl.
1981 Class Action Park was a Deadly Grom Killing Tidal Grave Pool.(Correct titles) Closed forever!
1986 Canada's Wave Mall God > Bone Crushing Blue Thunder...(Real Name) Was stripped of Powers!
2010 Canada's Toxic Calypso Soup Bowl has relentless head dunking Chlorine Burns! (Can't breathe!)
2018 Surf Lakes God Bobs his 5 Waves but rebounds more...Oops! My Bad!"
2019 Shuiyun Wave Pool Tsunami wipes out 44 Super Cute Pool Toys + their bloodied owners!
2023 Surf Abu Dhabi invites sacrificial River Bore servants to 7th Heaven...No double dipping!

So what happens when a Chick Surfer overpowers all yer Wave Pools & Grom & Instructor...[SOS]
Ya don't wanna know! Look away Gromz...Terrifying being owned & shamed forever by yer mates!
Talkin' bout the poor Instructor...Ain't no compo gonna get him back in the Waves! Can shove #%*!
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/nTuPVV7Hshc

truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher Wednesday, 22 Nov 2023 at 5:13pm

Stu is onto the Big W specials
This contraband Stab Vid bookends the front end right view of Stu's contraband vid
https://www.tiktok.com/@mindsurfclub/video/7298415537133030702

Gonna need better eyes than wot tbb is pickin' up here...feel free to explain what ya see..
Once again it's Medina up & riding backhand on the inside Split wave...
Seems to be shredding the inside bank...alongside the Jet Ski...

[pause]

Now check Stu's Big W (Above) See the inside bank start to fire up...as surfers are whipped along.
Pretty much kicks in @ Main View HQ...
We could be fooled into thinking Stu's vid is just a rogue over-crowded mess of fun spoiled by Jet Ski!

We would be wrong...now revisit the Stab vid to see that this inside is a hollow critter with purpose.
See 2 surfers ripping clear face on same wave.
Inside bank repeats Barrel > Ramp > Barrel > Ramp...
C'mon...need yer help here...crew please tell us wot tbb can't see...get on it!

What Stu + Stab vids show is 2x Comp standard rides...
Pro / Intermediate > way to too quick for Hodad Cruiser Wave
Seems that Medina keeps back-dooring impossible sections...

All makes sense that Kelly has chosen Pro Test Pilots to forge out the Big W banks...
If this Park is overheating then he needs some fine tuning real fast so called for the best...
Like fine tuning these inside ramps into back doors...coz that's exactly what that looks like...

Kelly has hired Medina as his Ranch Tractor to plough the Big W specials..planting seeds along the way!
Medina can give it to him straight about what angle / Ballast works best in record time...
The best Wave Model to feed live Data to like minded Pro Wave Shaper on same wavelength.
Crew know...they're cutting out the middle men from A-B...Winging it to Opening day. Gotta move it!
Medina reports back to pinpoint the strawberry patch > Rough end of the Pineapples...
Once all the Sweet Spots are loaded in ...then iron out the fades & let the Ai do the match making...simple!

Harvest to Plate...not now Luv...still too busy harvesting Waves...Kelly's a slave driver! Killing Me!

Strictly Not a beginner Wave nor cruiser banks reform from this Pro Wave Session...
tbb admits to thinking the inside would be weakened to fire up a beginner wave...Not so!

See Stu's Vid...that inside is whipping faster than head of wave...full on speed run. No [L] here Today!

Ok! tbb will exploit locals only powers...Inside Grom's Snapper runner smoking Pro's WOTD.
Both on winners...exactly like that...everyone thinking...Fuck that cheeky Grom stole that from me!

In short the head of Wave races to 2/3 then Speed Skater Whips the tail wide on polished cement...
Reckon all can relate to being whipped or whipping another...coz that water is sluicing fast.
tbb reckons that's definitely a Pro / intermediate Grom cereal bowl...
Hodad would have no hope plucking a winner from Lusty inside Grom Pack...

All see Learners & Hodads are too weak & would get minced alive...that's an upper tier Grom wave!
Clever crew will trace the deeper Ski Path which is shaping up the "Speeding Slab" product...
Possibly pull back a gear or two on lead wave "Dad's on the dreamboat + Son is mowing him down!"

This is where the crew come in...as tbb's eyes can't pick up Gabe's hot moves...
Hard to tell if this is rippable but it does seem vert enough...also get slotted for a good while...
tbb still thinks the idea is to light up 3 inner banks each way of varying Foil angle and Speed...

At this point ( Too early) Seems fair to assume Stu is exampling the Dad & Son Duelling Wave.
Dad's wave will slow a little to ramp a clear face on junior's sling shot piggy back...
Make dad feel like a Boss Hog Wave God...
D'ya see me stall son to give extra speed to make that barrel...I'm the real Pro son...Yer Wave God!
Like Grom just believe's what shit Dad says...so cool, thanks Dad! My Hero!
See...exactly like the whip skater...

Question...Is it Kelly's intention or indeed possible for these riders to switch at 'sweet spot'

Asking that coz Big wave has to smooth out evenly to allow inside to fire up evenly
Kinda like 2 Outer bank surfers Xing Middle Break lines then cutting back opposite directions. Doable!
That would be yer all things being equal reformed (Sweet Spot)
Dad bulks down on deep low carve back under as Son flies ski high to zoom skate the ramp until the clear face.
Done! Freaky Friday! Both Jump the Shark! Dad is skatin' like a Punk Grom as Grom is now sailing like a Pro

Can tbb give us an Oldschool Demo on just how this freaky shit is supposed happen! (Cough!)

https://www.facebook.com/NewTheatreKC/videos/triviatuesday-neither-of-th...

Coz that would be so cool for tandem / Tag Comps...Coz there's plenty of ride time to consider that!
Celebrity Family Feud Wave Duels...Goth Grom trail-blazed Steam Punk Dad...Toot! Toot! Pops!
Pretty sure a US Family Wave Pool did some Local Celeb goofball shit like this! Game on!

TobiasK's picture
TobiasK's picture
TobiasK Thursday, 23 Nov 2023 at 7:39am

Here's a tip:
I Kelly Slater agrees to let you come and do a promotional vlog about the first trial of his new wave pool in the Middle East, invest in a tripod!
Dude, they're about $100.

Why do you want to hurt me?

Logical_man2's picture
Logical_man2's picture
Logical_man2 Thursday, 23 Nov 2023 at 12:46pm

********** BOYCOTT ********************
SHAME ON SLATER

" According to human rights organisations, the government of the UAE violates a number of fundamental human rights. The UAE does not have democratically elected institutions and citizens do not have the right to change their government or to form political parties. Activists and academics who criticize the regime are detained and imprisoned, and their families are often harassed by the Govt"

freeride76's picture
freeride76's picture
freeride76 Thursday, 23 Nov 2023 at 12:50pm

Wavepools were always going to end up in this terrain.

Either beholden to dodgy real estate deals between developers and councils, scrutinised for their enviromental footprints, or becoming the playthings of rich middle eastern petro-states or billionaires.

It's kind of sad that this will be Slater's enduring legacy.

Roadkill's picture
Roadkill's picture
Roadkill Thursday, 23 Nov 2023 at 1:38pm
Komodo's picture
Komodo's picture
Komodo Thursday, 23 Nov 2023 at 8:38pm

Flicking the lure!
FR.

udo's picture
udo's picture
udo Friday, 1 Dec 2023 at 12:58pm

"Movie Star Chris Hemsworth Surfs Kelly Slater's Exclusive New Wave Pool" https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/movie-star-chris-hemsworth-surfs-1752436...

truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher Sunday, 3 Dec 2023 at 4:07pm

Surf Lakes Dingo Cave Grom kept tunnelling clear thru to the Centre of The Earth...so pitted!
https://www.dmarge.com/chris-hemsworth-son-surfing

God of Thunder sets free his Canaries in the Goldmine to sound out the Tunnels.

truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher Tuesday, 12 Dec 2023 at 10:11am

Pressing Pause on the Lord Byron Herbal Tea Party's magic carpet ride.
Byron is flushed with a Wave Pool of Talented cashed up swashbucklers.

tbb speculated & udo gazetted Queen Gilmore's neighbourly Crown Land

Dec 2014 ( 700 ideas > Plans )
Retired Town Planner : "The Spirit of Byron"
2/3 Lagoons connected to Water Treatment Centre
Swim Centre / Permaculture -Markets / Sensory Gardens / Eco-Education Centre / Community Gardens
https://www.echo.net.au/2014/12/retired-planner-submits-vision-byron-bay/
https://www.byronbayvision.com/images/Byron%20Bay%20Town%20Centre%20Mast...

13 Sept 2018 Arakwal MoU
https://byron.infocouncil.biz/Open/2018/09/AMUAC_13092018_AGN_786_AT_WEB...

2023/24 { $20-40m Byron Bay Drainage System }
April 2023 Data Collection
May 2023 Detailed Ground Survey
June 2023 Press Release
Design : $1.2m ($1,081,720 Oz communities grant) + ($200,000 Council)
Dec 2023 Investigation Works + Concept Design
March-Mid 2024 Detailed Design (Sandhills Wetland > Outfall > Clarkes Beach
https://www.byron.nsw.gov.au/Council/Media-centre/Media-releases/Council...
https://www.byron.nsw.gov.au/Services/Water-and-sewer/Water-and-sewer-pr...

Summary : Steph's nextdoor Block measures 400m x 200m
Fits the bill for Beach Drainage job directive + Handles all WavePool size / designs or a Mini Ranch

( Please don't read into tbb's bipolar induced diatribe.)
Just saying the pooling of Queen's Wavepool Jesters perfectly weds the newly mandated Beach Hang.
VIP Surfers clean up that yucky Beach Stain & save the Town...None ever go to Jail for a cash splash!

truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher Tuesday, 12 Dec 2023 at 10:22am

Surf Abu Dhabi (Screensaver)
https://www.facebook.com/surfabudhabi/photos

Mohammed Rahma ( Emrirati Surfer ) Claims the Line Up with Flag Waving Ceremony.
https://www.facebook.com/surfabudhabi

Abu Dhabi Show Pony Montage
https://www.facebook.com/surfabudhabi

truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher Sunday, 24 Dec 2023 at 11:48pm

Quite a few more Vids comin' thru with many different angles...
Plenty of WSL #1 Promo Packages

Caroline
https://www.si.com/fannation/surfing/olympics/world-champ-caroline-marks...
[00 - 2:15]

Gabz Slomo

Steph
https://www.facebook.com/surfabudhabi/videos/912312157069388/

Drone lines up the bank...
Note how surfer rides shore side over to foil side of bank + differing depth of bank.
https://www.facebook.com/100094647071500/videos/1568379183938400?__so__=...

truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher Wednesday, 31 Jan 2024 at 12:21am

Up front...no new news about Surf Abu Dhabi...
That's the point...Successful Wave Pools that revolve around it are motoring ahead regardless!
This review shares Abu Dhabi has run & won this race & still in the box seat without the Goat!
Abu Dhabi Wave Pool operators are canny world leaders in operations / management / events!
The reason for sharing will lend insight into likely future directions of New Pro Wave Pool

Feb 2024 Abu Dhabi Wave Pool Season Re-opening dates Comps. (All AUD Prices)

WSL Comps Price List : Ranch Pro CT $60 ~ Bells Pro CT $15 ~ Urbnsurf Pro QS $10 ~ wsl Gigs $60+

Season Reopen Dates

*31st Jan 2024 ~ Al Ain Adventure Wave Pool (10-4pm)
Tour Pro Sally / Resident Pro Mo Rahma
https://surfparkcentral.com/mo-rahma-uaes-first-competitive-surfer-learn...
https://surfparkcentral.com/meet-mo-rahma-the-first-professional-surfer-...
https://alainadventure.com/price-packages/
$45 Water Park Entry (Gromz / Seniors) + WavePool Supervision
$52 Standard Teen / Adult Entry incl WavePool ($7) 10-2pm
..........................................................................................................................................
$52 Entry + [ Add Ons ] > rise per Wave Pool Level 3-5pm + a/h
..........................................................................................................................................
$20 (2014) Volcom Surf Comp (eg: 2023 Xmas Festivities $72) $52+ $20
$25 Body Boarding
$70 Whitewash Zone
$72 Wave Pool + Whitewater Rafting Ride/s
(All above grant general all day Wavepool Wading access!)

# [ Surfing Sessions Announcement ] #
[ Due to overwhelming demand, our Surfing Sessions are Officially Fully Booked until end of the Year]
{ Thank You for making our Surfing Experience such a splashing success! }
https://alainadventure.com/
$93 [L] 2 Surf Group > $412 [P] 1 on 1 Coach
$120/hr Intermediate ( $20/hr Surfboards) 6 waves 3L/3R
$134/hr Advanced Surfing > $330 Semi Private > $1,030 # Private Groups

*3rd Feb 2024 Wild Wadi Water Park (Breakers Bay Wavepool / Flow's)
https://wkkarchitects.com/awild-wadi-dubai


10th Feb 2024 Wild Wadi Flow Champs (12-4pm)
$140 Water Park-Wavepool / Flow Comp entry (Park Pass Holders $72)
https://wildwadi.com/en/offers/flow-rider-championship

*5th Feb 2024 Yas Water World + Amwaj Wave Pool / Bubbles Barrel-World Champ Flow
https://www.yaswaterworld.com/en/rides/bubbles-barrel
World Champs Free Entry after 2pm > Check ... online rego / Accom / Multi Park Packs.
$122 Water Park...vid seems lame but thoughtfully shares all different modes...

Early 2024 Surf Abu Dhabi ( Originally pushed an unusual end of 2023 Open)
Most Abu Dhabi Water Park Wavepools close During Winter / January!

Now 2 months footage of #1 m/f Surfers across all Generations & Nations
Yet no open date > Website still features unknowns surfing random Surf Sites?
Only 2 shots of Abu Dhabi Wave that are bizarrely almost completely blocked?
[Facebook] Wave is of Elsewhere...
Can't do a better job of wiping out this wavepool.
https://www.surfabudhabi.com/

Review
*All other Abu Dhabi Water/WaveParks have International Acclaim & solid bookings!
*Mohammed Rahma celebrates 10 years promoting Abu Dhabi wavepools
*10 y/o Al Ain Wave Pool is Booked out a year in advance
*10 yrs World Flow Champs + Local League @ Yas Water Park
*25 y/o Wadi Flow Barrel is still holding Comps @ $140 Ticket.

19th April -1st Nov Yas Women Only Guests / Staff / Cams / Performers
Women's Wavegarden / Surf Resorts now fastest growing cross cultural Surf Market!
There's also Age Grouping for nearby shared Skate Park facilities...lots to consider if booking!
Crosses over...like under 8 boys are fine to access Ladies Days + Tween / Prices-Access differ!
Be prepared for a lot more over management when booking a family on a deadline date / time!
Pro pool may mandate an assessment session prior to booking Intermediate > Pro sessions!
Roundabout way of saying to allow 2 days to slot a mixed family for a united session.
https://www.abudhabitravelplanner.com/exploring-abu-dhabi-with-teens-twe...

GOAT wave pool has been left on the shelf rerunning irrelevant edited promos of VIPs Pool Party.
With unrivalled faultless Star Power Displays has no opening date on the horizon...
Considering all are happy with Main Wave then the [L] waves seem to be a major issue!
Repeated cross media censoring of Images & Wave endings scream risk aversion...
Each & every frightful inbound racing set was censored before impact & breaching of confines!
Seemingly delaying the opening of Kelly's near impossible Pro Level / family friendly cuddly wave park!

Posts are dating older & time between longer...
Have they part drained the Pool to tweak the Big W...tried searching local news..
Come upon news of Cycling / Fireworks / Kites / Beach & this cartoon.
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=782894463840796&set=a.38734172006274...
Also an odd backdated plan 14/6/2023 of Hudayriyat Island (Photo 3 > First Plan of Goat's Wave Pool).
https://abudhabimagazine.ae/modon-properties-reveals-hudayriyat-island-m...

Sponsors or lack of them...on websites.
Noting a mandated lack of Logos in and around the Sheiks / Building!
Also no prominent Sponsors on Shirts/Wetties/Rashies > Boards are exempt
Easily pocket more than Comp money to promote Goat's Pool...none did or were allowed!
C'mon crew! All watch this without a Giant can of Red Bull in sight...that's not normal...All say Aye!
Red Bull Team are first to steam roll the Runway...not this one!

Resident local Flag waving Pro Mo christens pool with Surf Abu Dhabi Logo...no accident that!
A message? Branding a large Local Logo approved by Sheiks.
All previous Pros too afraid to wear a noticible logo...huh!

Insta add ons are a mixed bag of WSL crew past / present.
Of online interest is Insta cuts out with use > tiktok has zero promo?
Company Notices state Official Site/s are coming soon!

Solitude's picture
Solitude's picture
Solitude Wednesday, 31 Jan 2024 at 7:57am

Only 39'' in and the insufferable Seppo in the background losing his mind at a wave we've all seen a 1000 times before, acting like Kelly just got blown out of an unmakeable Backdoor wave.......all the 'whhaaaaaaaat, whoooooooo' - too much for me

In other news, who knew Steph could backhand tube ride?

Patrick0710's picture
Patrick0710's picture
Patrick0710 Tuesday, 20 Feb 2024 at 4:49pm

For it is written that one must always raise one's arms aloft in sheer moronic delight at the mere sight of a wavepool.

truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher's picture
truebluebasher Thursday, 15 Feb 2024 at 11:34pm

Modon Recap...does emphasize closed door's event to Test & provide feedback to optimize 2024 open.
https://www.modon.ae/en/surfing-legend-kelly-slater

Google Search [Pop Up Review Window] Reviews running an open line to Surf Abu Dhabi Owners.
Click either Reviews or [More Reviews]

Plenty of Questions about opening...but all get the Wavepool Robot Receptionist.
Surf Abu Dhabi Owner : Thanx, Sign Up, Stay Tuned for Up Dates...Welcome you soon! (Repeat 15x)

Finally some Bites...we get some feedback ...first by some random locals.

Mid Dec 2023 Q: "Will this be open in Feb 2024?
(Local Guide) : "Yes, even before. Target is 15th Jan 2024"

8 Feb 2024 Chris Phillipp : "Any News on when this will open?
Nothing on their Website or Socials. Just says opening soon and has said that since Nov 2023.
I hope soon means very soon haha. Leaving Abu Dhabi soon!"

(( Surf Abu Dhabi Owner ))
"Hi Chris, thanks for your interest.
We will be [Announcing our Opening Date Soon]...
We are getting Ready and can't wait to Welcome You!"

(Ok! All agree that any announcement + getting ready sounds slightly more positive!)

Then last Week comes this [ Hard luck Ransom Note ] from Sergio S'A
"Unfortunately these Waves are for Rich People, I do have a dream about Surfing this Wave, but I'm very Sad to know the costs that will make it Impossible for me to Surf before my Father in Heaven calls me...Truly an exceptional Job and it will only be Surfed by a Few Lucky People..."

tbb (Crying) : "Special request for Surf Abu Dhabi Robot to say something nice to the poor bastard!"

Surf Ubu Dhabi (Bossman who wields that Big Wave Pool Stick!) :
"We appreciate your kind words and Hope Your Dream of Surfing Here comes true One Day!"
Sheik stokes up an emoji... /C`[-@- ) O-> #**

swellnet crew : "All crying...hauntingly beautiful...such a caring polite brush off from Ai Wavepool bot!"
Not quite a {Lucky Ticket} but they never turned Sergio into a Frog with their Wavepool Wands!

Meanwhile Ubu Dhabi Surf Festivals carry on without greatest ever Wave Pool...
Plenty of Surf Dates to Combo Surf Abu Dhabi Opening...come and go...

10 Feb 2024 Wild Wadi Flowfest Flowrider Championships
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1521926275254870
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1079556696699321
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=806209184878555&set=a.657477039751771
https://www.facebook.com/reel/327963290217514

Ok! So Modon miss out on free City Flow Kicker...no worries...we got bigger festivals

10-19th March 2024 Water Festival
Sailing / Foiling / Paddle Boards / Pole Punt / Wind & Kite Surfing / Beach Soccer-Volleyball
Check the Vid...Massive 15th Traditional Water People Festival...
Premium entry point opening day for Surf Abu Dhabi...(Surely gotta get on board with Water Festival!)

If Surf Abu Dhabi blow a free Showcase Premium opening Gig > All points to some major Big W Hang Up...
Be crazy not to Star as Latest Biggest Thing Billboard at this Massive Gig!
https://www.mediaoffice.abudhabi/en/arts-culture/under-the-patronage-of-...
https://www.mediaoffice.abudhabi/en/topic/al-dhafra-water-festival/

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truebluebasher Tuesday, 20 Feb 2024 at 1:12pm

Finally the final touchyfeelyheywotzupguyz Get the Flick Wavepool Flick
swellnet drum circle are stoked with yer Surf Ubu Dhabi front desk tinkabell power build up...*****
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1406480833573003

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truebluebasher Saturday, 24 Feb 2024 at 6:59pm

Surf Abu Dhabi Job Review ( Sorry...No opening Dates ) But hold Up!
Staff Review is worth a Look in...

Mid June 2023 Video (Shows same Plans of Wave Pool)
Seems to be the earliest Promo Plan for Wave Pool / Backs up (Above) 31st Jan comment.
Still reckon there must be earlier Plans + Gold Spade Photos.

July 2023 ( Earliest Hiring Ads...) Modon ask any to nominate the perfect dude for the job.
*Director of Surf Experience : Mitch Crews (Goldie Pro)
*Director of Sales / Events Partnerships : Dean Hartry (ZigZag?)
Retail Manager + Front of House Manager

Nov 2023 (Hiring)
Surf Coach : Rudi Hartono { Proper real deal Certified KSWC Guide } See Certificate below
Indo Champ Grom Rudi runs Dubai International Wavepool Lifeguard comp / courses...over qualified.
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/rudi-hartono-42a11a166_bombomsurlesson-ha...
XMAS Postcard from Surf Abu Dhabi Crew.
https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/D4D22AQG79tlOTMIBIQ/feedshare-shrink_8...

19th Jan Official Surf Ranch Surf Guide Training Assessment
Water Skills : Main/Random/End Bay Wave Placement + Foot Push
Land Skills : Heat/Session + Land [L]
Instructor's Surf Pharaoh Hydraglyph Translation 'Can ya spell that again...#@x% FFS...still good mate!'

swellnet Grom : "Rudy #i #y be stoked too #to frame his Collectable Surf Ranch X [/] \ X Certificate!"
https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/D5622AQFPhgIKNfFZMg/feedshare-shrink_2...
(Important) Big W - Wave Assimilation needed for Certification.
16 Dec 2023 -19th Jan 2024
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/rudi-hartono-42a11a166_thank-you-so-much-...
Official KSWC Science of Surf Stoke {Official Surf Guide Certi-flyers}
80 hrs (In-Basin Training) Wave Training > Customer Journey > Operational Flow > SOP Test
GOAT's Certifiers...
"Senior" Director Surf : James Matthews ..............\ ] x| [/] X ( Takes over as Artistic Director )
Ok! Jokes aside...
Can only think GOAT would hand select Watermen as Certifiers...
(Apologies to confusing any Watermen of same name...tricky to research any Staff!)
https://hoodline.com/2016/11/james-matthews-golden-gate-ocean-beach-patrol/

Director Surf Coach : Mo Van De Wall (Captain Mo) SA
https://www.lagunabeachsurfschool.org/about

EVP Operations & Experience : Kaniela Neves ..............x (Ranch / WSL Vice Prez)
https://www.signalhire.com/profiles/kaniela-neves%27s-email/143044116

Crew can drool over... { Official KSWC Surf Abu Dhabi Science Of Stoke Certificate }
Note Anomaly of 2x Different Surf Directors?
https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/D5622AQE2qvMHpHPo7g/feedshare-shrink_8...
https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/D5622AQF7y0vtUCtcXw/feedshare-shrink_8...
Lead Water Safety / Guest Service / Sales Associate
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/modon-properties_join-the-surf-abu-dhabi-...
https://ae.linkedin.com/company/surfabudhabi

Marketing Director : Miguel Pratas Pereira ( re: 36 sec Arabic Rip Curl Cruiser Promo Vid )
Locals Only RipCurl Promo...ain't no incidental merch slide show...some major branding there!

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/miguelprataspereira_for-all-the-surfer-ar...

Chef : Suneel Singh

20th Feb 2024 (AD) Senior Creative Designer (Hala Shareif) Certifiable Box Crosser!
24th Feb 2024 ...no longer taking applications...(Must be good at crossing boxes!)
https://ae.linkedin.com/jobs/view/senior-creative-designer-at-surf-abu-d...
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/hala-shareif_check-out-this-job-at-surf-a...

Summary..
Modon make out they're hiring staff but GOAT is clearly vetting the key roles!
Goat is handpicking highest Quality in house operational Surf Roles.
Dedicated Watermen & Wave Pool operators stoke his "A Team"
Happy to share so crew can see for themselves...this ain't no Freak Show!

Sure : Noting 'Global' Rebel Surf Skilled Tub Tour operators..no featherweights here!
SA / Indo / US watermen / Goldie Surf Pro / Hands on WSL / Ranch + Dubai Wave Pool Gurus.
Could be this does rise up a notch & we're in for the long haul...Goat's choice of staff prides dedication!

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truebluebasher Friday, 1 Mar 2024 at 9:13pm

Job Ads are slowly revealing more layout...
https://wavepooljobs.com/company/surf-abu-dhabi-modon-properties
*Water Safety (Maintain) + Coach
Max Length = Swim 550 yards > to wade depth
Width of Basin = Carry 80lbs at least 20 yards > to wade depth
10 feet deep = Min Pool depth level (Lift person from bottom)
Tread water 2 minutes = (Max Wave Lull)
Boat Ramp : Guessing that's Jet Ski Trailer
2x Lifeguard Towers (Note featured Vid shows position of early [R] > Late [L] Tower)
.....Guessing a similar positioned early [L] > Late [R] Tower...(Likely where big sets breach pool)
Hand Signals : Across all Jobs over Whole big Park
Control Tower > Jet Ski (Communication)
Schedule Designated Heats / Birthdays / Small - Events
Cash Handling Processes : (Unusual) Implies off street entry customers
Evening Hours / Holidays / Weekends
Knowledge of all wave profiles + Barrel / Turns coaching with desired Boards/fins/gear!
Watch over Ocean / Bay = indicates many wave breaks (vs) Flat deeper bay > outer break

There's enough here to show street entry > nite operation + 1 Jet Ski Driver / Local Comps > Gigs
Also sharing understanding of differing Wave Breaks requiring 2 Towers + Hand signals > Fitness!
All jobs require expert 10 yr Surf level + 3 yr Lifeguard + 6 mths wave pool / Jet Ski experience!
Just confirming tbb's above observations...Devoted dedicated Watermen need only apply!
Be kidding yerself if ya think GOAT isn't vetting these 'Watermen' applications.
No Kooks are slipping thru the Process!

* GOAT's Staff would expect their Pro Level worth to be acknowledged & paid accordingly!
* GOAT can't afford to lose & vet new expert quality staff & will expect Team players.
* GOAT Staff will be employed long term and by default become a World Class Team
* GOAT's Wavepark crew would be overqualified for World Comp compliance anytime!

swellnet crew know first hand > they'd expect the same & no less! No brainer!

Double check : GOAT invites WSL Champs + Top Watermen Staff = World Class Comp Facility

GOAT is not gonna mothball this with respected Watermen at the Helm!
His own Waterman Reputation is at stake...all crew know Kelly also prides on rescuing surfers!
Casting our swellnet mindset over these applications & chosen watermen = #1 Surf Cred!
GOAT won't undermine respected Watermen Surf Cred (No coming back from that!) ...All say Aye!
Expect this Wave Pool to hit the Big Time when GOAT waves his team on...Let's Rock!
tbb : (All checks out!)

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truebluebasher Sunday, 17 Mar 2024 at 2:33am

Interesting Wave Pool Safety promo...features Jet Ski > Lots of Radios and Hand Signal/s
(Read more about this above) Job descriptions call for Hand Signals across massive park.
Note also the mandatory Barrel Riding Coaching...Ticking off all the Boxes...goin' thru the motions!
Certainly looks like casual relaxed checks...(Comment rightly asks for Prices!)
Also that playful dancing of Sunlight is real special...sends a message...Dawning of a new era!
https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=262259446938956&set=pcb.262263180271916
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=262259450272289&set=pcb.26226318027...

Can skip this bit...No opening dates > Strictly (intro) for Surf Abu Dhabi Real Estate
Pretty boring as it's base level promos...more a new market curio!
Hudayriyat Island Real Estate Sales are now Promoting Surf Abu Dhabi...

So if that floats yer boat...read on...as it's just comin' on! Red hot it is!
Up until now...real estate only ever referred to Wave Pool as a later add on attraction.
Recent Real Estate now feature or have Surf Ubu Dhabi front-lining some promos...
As said, it's mostly entry level association with occasional Surf Pro Shots.

Moving from add on to top attraction for Island's home sales...just in the last week!
Guessing this locks in more certainty of a sooner than later opening that is now bankable!

Kinda starts slow with casual inclusion but is gaining prominence with each promo...
It is possible that feedback from buyers ... are enquiring more about the Wave Pool.

All of these Real Estate Promos appeared this week...
Most are Modon & some offer access to Surf Ubu Dhabi (or) More exactly...will be able to access.

tbb will limit these Promos to Wave Pool association of moving up the list...to actual Pro Shots.

https://www.thedubailands.com/nawayef-mansions-abu-dhabi
https://gulfnews.com/business/property/in-abu-dhabi-modon-properties-lau...
Metropolitan Capital Real Estate >
Residents of *Nawayef West & Heights and Al Naseem
*Estate is close to Surf Abu Dhabi and includes wave pool access...
https://modon.webflow.io/
Montsand Properties : " Impressive roster of Destinations including Surf Abu Dhabi "
https://www.montsandproperties.com/hudayriyathomes

Eastern Sands / Royal : #1/ 8 Amenities listed is Surf Abu Dhabi
https://esandsproperty.com/hudayriyat-island/
https://royallp.com/west-nawayef-homes-hudayriyat-villas-by-modon/

recap : All these Modon Surf Abu Dhabi Real Estate promos came on fast over the last week...
Choose...plenty of options
* Timetables with above Park Staff welcoming intro > Marketing
* Modon have also recently employed their Surf Promo guy
* Surf Abu Dhabi is Opening Soon
* Real Estate is now edging closer to Surf Abu Dhabi.
* More buyers are inquiring about Wave Pool access.
Sure...add yer own reasoning or combo.
With jobs being filled > Now Real Estate Promos...locking in.
Does seem to be pacing itself towards pricing & opening dates

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truebluebasher Saturday, 30 Mar 2024 at 9:45pm

Think we've reached the point of making up our own news to keep this interesting...

Recent Steph article featured this rare retro Abu Dhabi accolade...no reason we'll start there!

2010 Abu Dhabi ~ Steph wins World Action Sportsperson of the Year (Interesting!)
https://e0.365dm.com/24/03/1600x900/skysports-laures-surfing-stephanie-g...

2024 Steph keeps referring to Big Screen surfing...just wondering!
Big screen surfing will likely involve new WSL real time audio breakthru.
If that is the telling factor then a WSL Surf Studio is a perfect Big Screen Film Location.
Where constant edits are easy to polish up for a near perfect unrivalled sound visual breakthru.
Meaning any such surf film would stand alone for up to 5 years at least...A groundbreaking classic!

Well worth investing in...surefire money back venture!

Surf Abu Dhabi delayed Testing > doubling as inhouse Hi-Tech real time audible surf flick!
Thinking : Venue Opens with Queen Steph in lead role of "Surf Abu Dhabi The 3D Movie!"
3D sense-around Chix Surf Flick > Bewitching Twilight Barrel escapades...the Lot.

This perfectly echoes the original Surf Ranch (Prototype) Spacey Arthouse Chix Flick
Wavepool Flick featuring Twin Goat Guitars + Rythmic Surf Spray + Hypnotic GOAT voice overs.

This just popped up outta nowhere under Surf Abu Dhabi tag!
Which lends weight to audio involvement!
Mostly as it's #1 of 1 in series...gotta mean something.
Can click Ok! Link works...no photo as it's a Pod

(Dated) 28 March 2024 Surf Abu Dhabi (( Steph Pod ))
Not sure if it's lifted from original session or an over dubbed recent Pod?
https://www.instagram.com/surfabudhabi/

"When I do think of Wave Technology and a location that would suit having an artificial wave..."
"It's a place like this!"
Really Really Cool..Yeah! High Quality Wave!
It's a wonderful place for an artificial wave...so...It makes sense to be here...
This one is definitely the longest and highest quality ride you can get as a surfer!

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truebluebasher Saturday, 30 Mar 2024 at 10:06pm

Electric Wave > Next Gen Wavepool Flick
Imagine this on Big Screen.
With real-time surf / wave sound + Twin Goat Hypnotic commanding soundtrack!

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truebluebasher Monday, 15 Apr 2024 at 9:25pm

Just when ya think ya run outta ways to kill time!
This kinky Surf Ubu Dhabi review pops up!
See if this wets yer appetite...
Check out this wild Surf Ubu Dhabi Shorie
https://inspireambitions.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/A1-27-570x390.png

22 Nov 2023 : Surreal Image was lifted from blogger K.K. "Inspire Ambitions"
The edgy postcard Artwork marries a salacious Wavepool Dip.

Screams towards 2000 Vision Statement lifted from a Glossy Hotel Lobby Wave Pool Mag.
Pioneer bespoke Yuppie Wavepool Porn here say!

Reckon swellnet Surf Godz Stu / Gra / Steve would get into a lather over this!

You feel like havin' a laugh, but it's soon apparent this is a very professional serious essay!
Highly Classified Surf Ubu Dhabi Plastic Wrap Edition.
https://inspireambitions.com/surf-abu-dhabi-a-wave-of-excitement-for-uae...

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truebluebasher Wednesday, 24 Apr 2024 at 12:22am

Surf Abu Dhabi wave pool Coach # Phone Number
Bookings for the Pool?

https://www.instagram.com/nipuna_surfcoach/reels/?__d=1%3Futm_source%3Di...

Can't find any footage of recently Flooded Wave Pool Tsunami Sets...
Gotta be thinking all the water was contaminated...likely be drained and pool base cleaned?

Can check on other local Wave Pool...best case scenario...
Yas Water World has best standard Filtering & closed for 3 days > 16/17/18th April.

Floods...

https://www.tiktok.com/@lg.gazar/video/7359104569885969669