It’s the end of an era…

Dubai’s Toyota Tower has witnessed some pretty big transformations in the cityscape over the last 44 years – and now it’s time for the building to undergo a change of its own.

The concrete block on Sheikh Zayed Road has lost its flashing neon “Toyota” sign, which was so striking it gave the building its nickname (its actual name is the Nasser Rashid Lootah Building).

At least one social media user has noticed the missing sign:

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According to The National, the sign was recently removed due to the advertising contract with Toyota coming to an end. A new sign – not featuring Toyota – will be erected in the coming weeks.

Built in 1974, the 15-storey tower was at that time one of only three buildings in the area, which was then known as Defence Roundabout. It is considered one of Dubai’s first residential towers.

Image credit: NRL Group

Over the years, its future has been called into question as Downtown Dubai rapidly developed around it. But somehow, it has managed to stand the test of time – even though it might need a new name now…

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