Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has honoured 15 recipients of Urban Treasures in the initiative's fifth edition.
This annual celebration of longstanding businesses that have contributed to Abu Dhabi’s cultural and social landscape is part of DCT Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to protect, preserve and promote the emirate’s modern heritage and celebrate its rich history.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, presented the awards to the following winning institutions during a ceremony held at the Cultural Foundation on 16 June 2026: Al Amal Medical Centre; Shahbaz Traders; Miss J Café; Restaurant Dubai Special Kabab Grills LLC; Kanaan Gents Saloon LLC; Zubaid Tailoring & Embroidery Exhibition; Ghandoor Cafeteria and Pastry; Al Bahri Dental & Orthodontic Center; Cafeteria Hussam; Abid Trading Stores; Syria Cafeteria; Al Qusoor Tailoring & Garments; Sea Shell Refreshments; ADCOOP; and Top Man Gents Garments.
A total of 75 local gems across Abu Dhabi have been honoured across five editions of the Urban Treasures initiative, each recognised for their contributions to the emirate’s urban and social fabric.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: "Abu Dhabi is home to countless longstanding institutions that continue to serve people from all walks of life across the emirate. These establishments embody the entrepreneurial drive and sense of belonging that have long driven the emirate forward.
"The Urban Treasures initiative reflects our commitment to recognising the businesses that have played an integral role in shaping our social and cultural fabric.
"These are places that have served as anchors within communities, creating a shared sense of connection and contributing to the vibrancy of everyday life across generations.
"We will continue to honour the enterprises that have made a lasting impact, and today, we celebrate the entrepreneurs and establishments recognised in this year's edition.”
The Urban Treasures initiative was launched with the aim of recognising the city's landmark homegrown businesses – including restaurants, bakeries, tailors, fabric stores, perfumeries, jewellers, pharmacies, photography studios and similar establishments – which have thrived in Abu Dhabi for 20 years or more.
The award aligns with DCT Abu Dhabi’s Modern Heritage Initiative, which celebrates and safeguards the emirate’s more recent past.
Nominations for Urban Treasures 2026 were opened to the public.
The nominations were evaluated by a committee based on a set of criteria, including key elements such as placemaking, urban history, community value, physical authenticity and other factors that highlight the significance of these establishments within Abu Dhabi.
