I see what you mean. It is a common feeling. I get it, I had/have some of the same feelings too. That said, it's a charming city. It's modern but does have a little old town. Also if you get to go outside, it's a different world.
For me it's a practical city which in unapologetic. It has moved far far away from most of the old world cities and will continue to move in that direction. It's a far better city for business than any in the world and therefore I come here often.