Fifteen businesses that have shaped Abu Dhabi's cultural and social landscape honoured as ‘Urban Treasures'
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced the recipients of the fourth edition of the Urban Treasures Initiative, an annual celebration of long-running businesses that have shaped Abu Dhabi's cultural and social landscape.These businesses have contributed to cementing Abu Dhabi's position as one of the leading cities in the world for living and working.This award forms part of the department's ongoing efforts to preserve the emirate's modern heritage and celebrate its rich history.The ceremony was held at the Cultural Foundation, during which 15 establishments from across the emirate were honoured for their longstanding presence and exceptional contributions to the local landscape.Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, presented the awards to the winning institutions, which included: Khulood Club, Gulf Pastry, Zahrat Al Khaleej Nablusia Sweets, Orchid Tailoring & Embroidery Shop, Mohammed Farooq Perfumes, Al Jumaira Studio and Stores, Al Yahar Modern Restaurant and Kitchen, Three Star Watches Shop, Shawarma Ala Alragef Cafeteria, Happy Yemen Restaurant, Ahmed Sultan Al Salami Trading and Importing, Al Ain International Medical Polyclinic, Nauras, Baqala Cheese & Pickles Centre, and Al Sidr Natural Honey.Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak said: 'The Urban Treasures initiative continues to shine a light on the longstanding businesses that have added to Abu Dhabi's character over the decades. These establishments are enduring community pillars that reflect the spirit of our emirate, and by celebrating them, we honour these human stories and traditions. With each successive edition, we celebrate businesses that are recognised for having a lasting impact within our community and inspire future generations to cherish their legacy.'Speaking at the event, Saood Al Hosani, Undersecretary at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: 'Our celebration today marks the fourth edition of the Urban Treasures initiative. It aligns with the principles of the Year of the Community in the UAE, fostering social cohesion and solidarity. Through this initiative, we honour places that have brought people together and upheld the values of cooperation, coexistence and shared trade.'He continued: 'Today, we recognise 15 commercial establishments chosen by the local community. So far, we have honoured 60 such institutions - a major milestone in our mission to safeguard the living heritage of Abu Dhabi. These businesses have flourished for more than 20 years and helped shape the cultural identity of the UAE.'Among this year's honourees was Elie Reaidy, representing the historic Nauras Shop, founded in 1969. He said: 'I would like to thank the Department of Culture and Tourism for this wonderful initiative. Our logo features a bird - the migratory bird - which symbolises freedom. The bird carries wheat, representing generosity and prosperity. So, our symbol is love - love that lies between freedom and giving. We hope that Abu Dhabi continues to embody these values.'Mohammed Younis, originally from Jordan and owner of a honey factory in Abu Dhabi, shared his journey: 'I've been working with bees and honey for 40 years. My love for bees and the medicinal value of honey inspired me to establish a specialised institution at a time when none existed in this field. Honey isn't just a food, but also a medicine - and our goal was to share its health benefits with society.'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.Seeking to further raise the profiles of these 'treasures' and preserve them for future generations, 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 2025 were opened to the public. Candidates were then evaluated by a specialised committee based on a set of criteria, including key elements such as place-making, urban history, community value, and physical authenticity.
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