Behind the modern towers and the stunning beaches of Abu Dhabi lies a rich heritage dating back thousands of years. From early Bedouin settlers to spectacular contemporary attractions, its unique historical journey has shaped the city we know today.
To differentiate itself from the bright spotlight of adjacent Dubai, Abu Dhabi, the second-largest population of the seven emirates with growing urban residents of 1.5m, has encouraged a more sophisticated pace, streaming significant investment into its infrastructure and cultural space.
From the outstanding Louvre Museum to the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Mosque – one of the biggest mosques in the world attracting thousands of tourists each day, Abu Dhabi brings its own touch of tradition to the UAE formula of glowing waterfront, vibrant architecture and desert entertainment.
A RICH CULTURE
Despite its modern skyline, Abu Dhabi detains a rich cultural heritage, and its people are proud of their history, firmly rooted in Arabic traditions.
Beginning as a pearl trading centre, the combined revenues of Abu Dhabi from oil royalties and overseas investments have earned it one of the highest per capita incomes in the world, enabling a series of construction projects and cultural developments.
Consequently, Abu Dhabi has concentrated its efforts on creating prime cultural centres to promote tourism and attract and retain residents. Among these, the city has developed a 10-square-mile island as a cultural and tourism hub with several museums, including a branch of New York City’s Guggenheim Museum.
Opened in 2017, the Louvre Abu Dhabi has become the centrepiece of the contemporary ambitions of the Emirates and will undoubtedly set apart the district of Saadiyat Island. It also became the initiator of future developments such as the Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, forming the largest concentration of renowned cultural institutions whilst preserving the deep-rooted heritage of the capital.
A CITY OF ENTERTAINMENT
Beyond beautiful weather and beaches, Abu Dhabi is synonymous with thrills and excitement.
Day or night, Yas Island lives up to its reputation as the entertainment capital of the UAE. It is best known for the Yas Marina Circuit welcoming the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Each November, the great drivers and their teams compete in one of the most exciting races in the world – and enjoying the thrill of a Formula One car speeding past you is a once in a lifetime experience. The island is also home to the famous Yas Marina, the Yas WaterWorld water park and an award-winning championship golf course, Yas Links Abu Dhabi.
But the excitement does not end there. The hotels in Abu Dhabi have some of the liveliest entertainment and dining options. Well-known singers, dancers and comedians offer shows to enchant all audiences, especially during Abu Dhabi Summer Season.
A THRIVING ECONOMY
Not only the wealthiest emirate of the UAE but also one of the wealthiest cities in the world, Abu Dhabi experiences today a rapidly growing economy with a high GDP of $268 billion and a per capita income of $96,000.
Whilst its economy is primarily based on revenue generated from natural resources, other sectors are slowly emerging. In the future, Abu Dhabi is expecting non-oil industries such as tourism and property to account for nearly half of its total GDP output.
Furthermore, Abu Dhabi and its excellent economic position have not incurred any direct debt in over a decade. The city continues to be the highest contributor to the total GDP of the UAE and keeps providing generous financial support to the smaller Emirates in the country.
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