A captivating journey: Get to know Abu Dhabi’s Urban Treasures
When we think of Abu Dhabi today, we picture shiny skyscrapers, modern infrastructure and a futuristic city that’s one step ahead in everything. However, you can find remnants of the beautiful culture that has set the foundation of today’s Abu Dhabi. In fact, the city recognises the establishments that have moulded the city’s culture with the Urban Treasures title.
Keep reading if you’re curious about this title and want to learn about the places that have won it.
Understanding Urban Treasures Abu Dhabi
The Urban Treasures Abu Dhabi is a title given by the Department of Culture and Tourism to home-grown establishments in the capital that have upheld the pillars of the community through their work. Be it food (cafes, restaurants, bakeries or sweet shops) or fashion (footwear, textiles, clothing, etc), these places have uniquely carried the torch of culture. The title is given every year, offering 15 businesses their deserved spotlight.
Let’s look at the list of Urban Treasures in Abu Dhabi 2024.
Salem Al Shueibi Jewellery
Founded by Salem Al Shueibi in 1973, this jewellery store has focused on manufacturing and trading diamonds, gold jewellery and more. They bring together Emirati traditions with international design elements to craft stunning pieces that can be worn casually and for events.
- Location: Across the UAE, including Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre
- Contact: +971-2-631-8000
Al Mandoos
An Emirati footwear store residents remember fondly, Al Mandoos has built a name for itself in trendy footwear. They began their journey in 1986 and are considered a luxury brand, owing to premium leather and traditional craftsmanship. Their store in Abu Dhabi Mall has several patrons who seek comfortable yet classy footwear.
- Location: Multiple, including Abu Dhabi Mall and Deersfield Mall | Online store
- Contact: +971-54-581-1013
Nasruddin Perfumes Shop
Nasruddin Perfumes Shop is a trusted name amongst perfume retailers in Abu Dhabi. It began in 1989 in Abu Dhabi’s Old Souq, gaining popularity for offering authenticity in its online and in-store products. Nasruddin Perfumes Shop runs the popular website perfumesuae. com.
They focus on selling colognes and fragrances from France and the US to residents of the capital. There are more than 2,000 distinct products in their inventory.
- Location: Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre
- Contact: +971-2-634-3191
Abu Dhabi Pottery Establishment
The Abu Dhabi Pottery Establishment was born out of a passion for the craft byย Homa Vafaie Farley in 1994. They teach pottery to people from all walks of life, including students, adults and children who are curious about pottery and design. You’ll get to experience an interactive pottery session where you can ask as many questions and dive deep into the craft. This establishment has all the makings of an Urban Treasure cultural attraction in Abu Dhabi.
- Location: Dabbas Street Building No. 29, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Contact: +971-2-666-7079
Al Ain Pharmacy
Al Ain Pharmacy is a brand you’ve probably spotted in the UAE. This leading pharmacy chain has been a part of the industry for over 40 years. They assist over 5,000 customers a day and have grown to accommodate the diverse medical requirements of various people. Al Ain Pharmacy has an inventory of over 32,000+ medicines and a well-trained staff.
- Location: More than 50 branches across the UAE
- Contact: Toll-free +971-800-500-800
Persian Carpets & Antiques Exhibition
Persian Carpets & Antiques Exhibition specialises in handmade carpets – offering sales and repair services. It started in 1989 and consistently showcased its expertise in Persian carpets. You can get your hands on beautifully crafted Persian carpets, each on display with stunning handicrafts.
- Location: Rotana Mall, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-55-411-4800
Rubou Zahla Trading Establishment
Rubou Zahla offers customers fresh fruits and vegetables at reasonable prices based on their unique needs. They began trading in 1990 and have since become a reliable name for offering these goods to stores in the UAE.
- Location: 6 Gharnata Street, Port Zayed, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-2-673-1869
Al Ajayeb Bazar
Al Ajayeb Bazar offers their clientele an assortment of sports goods, depending on customer needs. This retailer established itself in 1991, catering to each client’s unique interests and style, offering high-quality sporting goods and fishing equipment. They are located in Al Ain and have a very customer-focused staff.
- Location: Binham Building, Zayed Bin Sultan Street, near Jumeira Studio, Central District, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-3-766-9797
Al Jazeera Studio & Stores
Capturing beautiful wedding memories is what Al Jazeera Studio and Stores specialises in. This wedding and event photography and videography specialist from Abu Dhabi started in 1988 and has been a part of various Emirati weddings and events. The talented team of event planners, expert photographers, and videographers understand the sanctity and beauty of weddings.
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Main Streetุ Near Clock Tower Signal, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-50-669-1330, +971-50-660-1412
Ayoob Exhibition
Ayoob Exhibition is an all-rounder import and trading company offering all sorts of goods to residents of Abu Dhabi. Women’s clothing, perfumes, baby essentials and Oud will be found here. They started their retail offerings in 1970 and now have a strong online presence. Customer satisfaction is at the forefront of their services, which they guarantee through their high-quality goods. They import goods from France, Spain, the USA, the Netherlands and Canada.
- Location: Madinat Zayed Street, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-2-621-7222
Alfarah Restaurant
Since 1998, Alfarah Restaurant has offered delicious Middle Eastern cuisine to patrons seeking authentic versions of popular dishes. On their menu, you can find traditional Middle-Eastern dishes, including grilled meat platters, shawarma and fatayers, cooked to get your mouth watering. Today, they are a popular restaurant with several branches across the UAE.
- Location: Multiple, including Soughiyyah Street and Al Khalidiyah
- Contact: +971-60-057-0000
Alareesh Restaurant
This is another restaurant among Urban Treasures 2024 Abu Dhabi! Alareesh is a Lebanese restaurant in Al Ain that offers the authentic version of this tantalising cuisine. They use fresh ingredients and focus on attention to detail when crafting their dishes, making them a favourite restaurant amongst residents of the emirate.
- Location: Khalifa City, Al Raha Gardens, Abu Dhabi
- Location: +971-3-766-1440 (Al Ain branch)
WOSTB Legal Translation
Translation services are a necessity for expats and citizens of the UAE when it comes to various legalities. One of the oldest providers of this service is WOSTB Legal Translation, which began offering commercial translation services in 1986. They are a reliable translation provider, showing commitment and timeliness in their services.
- Location: Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street, next to DJ Ground Floor, Al Danah, Zone 1
- Contact:+971-50-192-3757
Paris Textiles LLC
Fabrics and textiles showcase a society’s heritage, making it an urban treasure. Paris Textiles LLC is one such establishment that started in 1985 and has a reputation for offering the finest textiles in Abu Dhabi. They truly understand their clientele’s needs and offer fabric that matches occasions and personalities.
- Location: Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-2-491-0900
Al Qadi Pharmacy & Est
Al Qadi Pharmacy & Est is the UAE’s first pharmacy, starting in 1965 in Abu Dhabi. They have since grown exponentially and are a part of the Al Qadi Group of companies – which today also have the Al Qadi Medical Center under their wing. The pharmacy focuses on offering warmth and friendliness, prioritising customer happiness over money. You can see this from the smiles on the employees’ faces as they offer services to their clientele, which has remained consistent over the past 50 years.
- Location: Zayed 1st Street, Al Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-2-634-1122
FAQs
Who nominates the Urban Treasures Abu Dhabi?
The Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism nominates the Urban Treasures title.
What are the criteria for nominating the Urban Treasures of Abu Dhabi?
The Urban Treasures title is given to homegrown establishments in Abu Dhabi that have been around for two decades or more and have become pillars of the community. 15 businesses are usually nominated, which can be expat run too.
What are the historic sites to see in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi has several attractions showcasing the country’s history with a story. These include Qasr Al Muwaiji, Wahat Al Karama and Sir Bani Yas Church and Monastery.
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