A Great Year For Abu Dhabi’s Cultural, Historical & Modern Identity

In July, the UAE capital’s Department of Culture and Tourism announced 64 buildings and sites are in need of “immediate and unconditional protection”. The department’s Modern Heritage Conservation Initiative safeguards sites that narrate Abu Dhabi’s more recent past.

As part of the landmark move, no demolition applications are allowed for the 64 modern heritage sites. Instead, priority is being given for them to be maintained and rehabilitated in accordance with their designated grade.

Preserving Harmony Between Heritage and Modernity

Prominent buildings such as the Central Bank, the old Adnoc headquarters, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce, and the city’s main bus terminal are part of the initiative. But the 64 entities also include less familiar places, such as parks, residential towers and ghaf trees.

The less prominent sites requiring protection tell the history of the emirate, just like the more familiar places do. For example, the Niqa bin Ateej water tank and park in Khalidiyah ensured vital water supplies for a city massively expanding on the back of the oil boom.

Some of the early residential towers are also on the list, including the Elenco and Harib buildings. The 1970s-era Harib used to be one of the most sought-after buildings in the city. Sea views and shops below ensured residents didn’t have to go too far for things they needed.

Initiative Helping Enrich The Quality Of Life Too

The year 2023 brought the much needed focus and safeguards to these buildings and places that allow us to look back in time. But consideration is now been given to how they can be used for the future generation.

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The initiative plays a crucial role in maintaining the emirate’s public appearance, identity and urban cultural heritage. It reflects the UAE’s commitment to developing smart and sustainable cities, while preserving a place’s identity and thereby enriching the quality of life.