DCT-Abu Dhabi’s Modern Heritage Initiative
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi’s (DCT-Abu Dhabi) Modern Heritage initiative is helping to preserve 64 buildings and sites that contribute to Abu Dhabi’s cultural identity through their architectural, historical, societal or scientific significance, protecting them for future generations.
The Modern Heritage Conservation Initiative
As part of its Modern Heritage Conservation Initiative, the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) identifies, safeguards, and maintains sites that narrate the Emirate’s more recent past. This falls in line with the Cultural Heritage Law decreed in 2016 by Abu Dhabi, which recognises the inclusion of modern heritage along with archaeological sites and historic buildings as part of its cultural heritage.
Protection of 64 Modern Heritage Sites
DCT – Abu Dhabi has revealed the first set of 64 modern heritage sites, requiring immediate and unconditional protection. No demolition applications will be allowed for these buildings, instead, priority will be given for them to be maintained and rehabilitated in accordance with their designated grade.
Preserving Abu Dhabi’s Culture and Identity
His Excellency Mohammed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Part of DCT Abu Dhabi’s mission includes preserving Abu Dhabi’s culture and identity. Our architectural and urban heritage is an extremely important element of our recent history, which deserves to be recognised and protected.”
DMT’s Involvement in the Initiative
His Excellency Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa Al Hammadi, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport said: “The Modern Heritage Conservation initiative plays a crucial role in maintaining the city’s public appearance, identity, and its urban cultural heritage. The partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi reflects DMT’s commitment to developing smart and sustainable cities, while preserving the city’s identity, thereby enriching the quality of life and visitors’ experience in Abu Dhabi.
Examples of Modern Heritage Sites
By taking a closer look at all 64 structures, it is evident that they collectively stand witness to the emirate’s history as it has grown over the years. The list is a representation of diverse types of buildings – a hospital, a theatre, a school, mosques, parks, hotels, markets, and commercial buildings among many others.
Continued Survey for Protection and Conservation
Abu Dhabi’s Modern Heritage Conservation Initiative aims to identify and protect modern heritage sites in the city. As part of this initiative, DCT Abu Dhabi has surveyed the city’s built environment and identified a total of 65 modern heritage sites. These sites have been formally registered for protection and conservation. The list of these sites is as follows:
- Cultural Foundation
- Abu Dhabi Bus Terminal and Taxi Stand
- Al Manhal Palace
- Zayed bin Sultan The Second Mosque
- The National Theatre
- Former Al Jazeera Hospital
- Sheikh Zayed Sports City
- Islamic Institute Complex (Former UAEU)
- Niqa Bin Ateej Water Tank and Park
- Radisson Blu Al Ain (Hilton Al Ain)
- Al Jahili Eid Prayer Grounds
- Al Khalidiyah Park
- Al Ain Old Central Market
- Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tower
- Al Bateen Mall
- Intercontinental Hotel – Abu Dhabi
- Radisson Blu – Abu Dhabi (Hilton Abu Dhabi)
- Hili Old Market (Shaabi Market)
- Zayed Al Awwal Secondary School – Oud Al Hassa
- Former ADNOC Headquarters
- Al Maqta Conservation Area
- Former Vehicles & Drivers Licensing Directorate
- Bida’ Zayed Central Souq
- Arab Monetary Fund Building
- Etisalat Headquarter – Abu Dhabi
- Federal National Council
- Saeed Al Kalili (Al Ibrahimi Building)
- Heirs of Salem Khadem Al Qubaisi Building
- HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Tower (Blue Tower – Union National Bank)
- Hamed Center
- Hamdan Centre
- Obaid Al Mazrouai
- Butti Al Otaiba Building
- Harib Tower
- Sheraton Hotel
- Le Méridien Hotel
- Al Ghaf Tree Park
- Airport Road Park
- Armed Forces Officers Club & Conference Centre
- Al Omeirah Building (Adidas)
- Al Hobbara Water Tank (SBY Island)
- Bida’ Zayed Pool
- Liwa Rest House
- Remah Rest House complex
- Salman Khalifa Al Mazroei
- Otaiba Building
- Mesaied Khalid Al Mansoori
- The Central Bank of the UAE
- Al Ain Vegetable & Fish Market (Shibrat Al Ain)
- City Terminal (Abu Dhabi International Airport)
- Abu Dhabi City Municipality Building
- Department of Economic Development
- Department of Finance
- Abu Dhabi Media Company
- Abu Dhabi Oil Co. – Japan (ADOC)
- Al Manhal Family Medicine Clinic
- Al Zaab Old Fire Station
- Khalifa Al Suweidi Building
- Elenco Building
- Former Al Dhafra Region Municipality Building
- Madinat Zayed Vegetable, Meat & Fish Market – Abu Dhabi
- Abu Yalee Mosque
- Al Ain Old Gold Souk
- Al Nyadat Eid Musalla.
The Modern Heritage Conservation Initiative in Abu Dhabi is an important step towards preserving the city’s modern heritage sites for future generations to appreciate and enjoy. The registration and protection of these sites will ensure that they are maintained and celebrated as important parts of the city’s history and culture.
