Surf the internet for free while you smell the roses in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi: Residents can enjoy free wireless internet connectivity in two public parks on the corniche within a month, thanks to a new initiative of Abu Dhabi Municipality, a senior official told Gulf News on Sunday.

"We are trying to complete the preparations in co-operation with etisalat to introduce internet connectivity within one month," said Abdul Aziz Al Jeraishi, Director of Public Parks and Recreation Department at Abu Dhabi Municipality.

"Initially, the connectivity will be available in two public parks on the corniche - Musical Park and Official Park." The connectivity will be available round the clock, said the official. "The entry is free to those two parks, so people can enjoy free browsing.

"If successful, we will gradually extend the service to other parks in the capital," said Al Jeraishi.

The Municipality expects more visitors to those parks once web connectivity gets operational. "We will make necessary arrangements like seating and lights for the visitors," said the official.

Residents welcomed the initiative. "This is great, I can hang on park or beach and do something useful", said Diego Galliker, a Swiss resident.

"Now I can do some research or related things as part of my work while relaxing at the park," said Gallikar who is an architect.

Will the new facility encourage more parents to bring children to parks? What other facilities could be provided to promote outdoor activities among children? What facilities does your neighbourhood park offer? Fill in the form bellow to send your comments.

This is a wonderful initiative coming from Abu Dhabi. Now people can have the pleasure of working or surfing on the internet in a free atmosphere during their own time and also have fun with their families.
Lokesh Shetty
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: November 10, 2008, 14:34

In the past few years, Abu Dhabi has taken great efforts to make life better for its residents. Free facilities like wireless internet in public parks are a great idea to encourage people to spend time outdoors. I hope Dubai would take this as an example and not charge internet fees to the public who are already paying entry fees to enter parks.
Joel D'lima
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 10, 2008, 14:33

I would like to say that this is an excellent gesture by the authorities in Abu Dhabi. I would highly appreciate if other emirates implemented this initiative.
John Vadakkel
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 10, 2008, 13:46

This move is simply excellent. I usually feel bored when I take my kids to the park as they engage themselves in their games while I have to kill time having nothing to do but worry about the work which is waiting to be completed.
Hamriya Sameer
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: November 10, 2008, 10:15

This is a great gesture by the authorities in Abu Dhabi. I hope other emirates follow the lead.
Mohammad Ismail
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: November 10, 2008, 10:10

Good move. I hope other emirates follow the lead so we can enjoy parks more.
Biju
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 10, 2008, 09:55

This is great!As a fashion designer, I love working in open areas and spaces. Now it is possible for me to do that and stay connected.
Rodel T. Molina
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: November 10, 2008, 09:53

This is wonderful to hear. I congratulate whoever thought of this. The fact that it is free makes it even more wonderful.
Khaled
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: November 10, 2008, 09:49

I think it would be good if this is implemented in all public area, like shopping centers, mallsl, bus stations, and airports.
Farid
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: November 10, 2008, 00:58

I hope authorities in Dubai would also offer this service. People would visit parks more often along with their children and also continue working in the process. It would help in building closer family ties.
Sudip Chatterjee
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 10, 2008, 00:47

I hope Dubai would follow Abu Dhabi's footsteps.
Praveen
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 10, 2008, 00:34

This is good for the people who are so busy and need to be online at all times while wanting to spend family time.
Praveen Poojary
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 10, 2008, 00:28