Growing up, children are often told that the Great Wall of China is the only human artifact easily visible from space -- thanks to Sheikh Hamad of Abu Dhabi, the history books will have to be revised.
At the age of 63, a lasting legacy must be important to Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan; at least, that would explain why the Sheikh ordered contractors on his private island to carve his name into the earth. Located on Al Futaisi, a private island in the United Arab Emirates, the sign extends along two miles and requires bridges to cross the water-filled letters.
If Sheikh Hamad's opulence astounds you, wait until you hear about his other purchases: a fleet of 200 cars and a custom-built pyramid. Now, you probably have a better idea of what life with $22 billion is like.
Island-Sized Signs
Sheikh Hamad's Name is Visible from Outer Space
Trend Themes
1. Personal Branding - The trend of individuals using their personal wealth to create prominent symbols of their identity opens up opportunities for disruptive innovation in luxury branding and marketing.
2. Mega-projects - The trend of creating extravagant and oversized structures showcases opportunities for disruptive innovation in architecture, construction, and engineering industries.
3. Extreme Wealth Showcase - The trend of the ultra-wealthy displaying their immense riches through extravagant purchases creates opportunities for disruptive innovation in luxury goods and services industries.
Industry Implications
1. Luxury Branding and Marketing - The industry of luxury branding and marketing can capitalize on the trend of personal branding by curating unique and extravagant experiences for affluent individuals.
2. Architecture, Construction, and Engineering - The architecture, construction, and engineering industries can explore disruptive innovation opportunities in creating mega-projects that redefine the perception of scale and grandeur.
3. Luxury Goods and Services - The luxury goods and services industry can tap into the trend of extreme wealth showcase by offering exclusive and customized products and experiences for the ultra-wealthy.