Latest news with #UrbanTreasures
FACT
16-06-2025
- Business
- FACT
Urban Treasures 2025: Community concepts in Abu Dhabi
From bakers to tailors, here are the special small businesses. The UAE has always been big on preserving its rich culture and heritage, and rightly so. With stories stemming from every street, the country is doing everything to highlight these narratives. One of the coolest ways Abu Dhabi does this is through the annual Urban Treasures 2025 initiative, and this time around, it has unveiled a fresh batch of pioneers. Urban Treasures is an initiative by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi that honours long-running, homegrown businesses that have contributed to the capital's cultural fabric over the past two decades — and sometimes even longer. Now in its fourth edition, it includes everything from restaurants and sweet shops to tailors and clinics — places that have served generations and are deeply rooted in community life. This year's list shines a spotlight on 15 establishments that have stood the test of time. Ahmed Sultan Al Salami Trading and Importing This family-run shop has been around since 1948 and remains one of Al Ain's most trusted fabric and incense stores. With offerings for both men and women, its traditional offerings with modern service make it a valued part of the community. Al Jumaira Studio & Stores Starting in Al Ain in 1991, Al Jumaira has grown into a retail hub across the UAE. It offers a wide range of products, from electronics and perfumes to musical instruments and photography services, all under one roof. Al Yahar Modern Restaurant & Kitchen Serving Al Ain since 1983, this restaurant is a favourite for its mandi, Emirati and Arabic dishes. With its comforting hospitality and rich flavours, it's a must-visit for fans of local cuisine. Al Ain International Medical Polyclinic Established in 1999, this clinic introduced advanced dental laser technology to the United Arab Emirates. Today, it remains a leader in medical and dental care, having stood the test of time. Al Sidr Natural Honey Since 1986, this honey shop in Al Danah has been associated with pure and traditional production methods of honey. Its premium-quality liquid gold reflects the region's natural essence and heritage, making it an urban treasure. Baqala Cheese & Pickles Centre This Abu Dhabi-based store has been serving up goodness since 1983 with its collection of artisan cheeses, gourmet pickles and speciality food items. Bridging tradition and modern taste, it promises a flavourful journey for all. Gulf Pastry Baking since 1999, Gulf Pastry Company has become a household name with 43 branches across the UAE. It specialises in traditional Middle Eastern pastries and is loved for sticking to time-honoured recipes while evolving to meet modern tastes. Happy Yemen Restaurant Operating in Abu Dhabi since 1982, this restaurant specialises in Yemeni and Khaleeji dishes. Whether you're craving a plate of mandi or a slow-cooked stew, the flavours here are deep, rich and soulful — just like Abu Dhabi's DNA. Khulood Club Since 1984, Khulood Club in Al Danah has been a fitness institution. Known for its martial arts training, including karate, kickboxing, MMA, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, it also features a fully equipped gym. The club is dedicated to building a community centred on discipline, strength, and personal growth. Mohammed Farooq Perfumes Located in Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, this perfume shop has been in operation since 1980 and is a true Urban Treasure. It's renowned for offering both Arabic and French fragrances, blending authenticity with elegance in every bottle. NAURAS Founded in 1969, Nauras introduced the Florida Sandal to the UAE and continues to manufacture its shoes in Italy. This Abu Dhabi-based brand is known for timeless, high-quality leather footwear that is valued to this day, making it an urban treasure. Orchid Tailoring & Embroidery Shop A go-to for bespoke tailoring since 1987, Orchid Tailoring in Abu Dhabi is known for its custom-fit garments, top-tier fabrics, and traditional craftsmanship. It's the kind of place where they still believe in tailoring clothes perfectly to ensure customer satisfaction. It is this dedication that has kept customers loyal and returning time and again. Shawarma Ala AlRagef Cafeteria Located inside the Co-op Society building in Al Ain, this local gem has been satisfying shawarma cravings since 1991. It's quick, flavourful, and a classic pit stop for a wholesome bite and one of the OG cafeterias in the region. Three Star Watches Shop Located in Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, this shop has been open since 1985. With a mix of classic and modern timepieces, Three Star Watches is a trusted name for those who know their watches and like to source the most authentic, classic pieces. Zahrat Al Khaleej Nabulsi Sweets A sweet staple in Al Ain since 1981, Zahrat Al Khaleej is famous for its kunafa and other Nabulsi desserts. This shop is all about authentic flavours, quality ingredients, and time-tested recipes passed down through generations. Now it's up to you to explore the Urban Treasures, support them, and keep their legacy alive for generations to come. GO: Visit for more information.
Dubai Eye
29-05-2025
- Business
- Dubai Eye
Abu Dhabi honours 15 firms as Urban Treasures
From pastry shops and perfumeries to restaurants and tailoring stores, 15 businesses in Abu Dhabi have been honoured with the Urban Treasure awards for shaping the capital's cultural and commercial landscape. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), presented the awards at a special ceremony at the Cultural Foundation in the capital city. "These establishments are enduring community pillars that reflect the spirit, resilience, and heritage of our emirate, and by celebrating them, we honour these human stories and traditions," said Al Mubarak The Urban Treasures was launched to recognise the city's homegrown businesses that have thrived for 20 years or more and to raise the profiles and preserve them for future generations. مبادرة "كنوز المدينة" من دائرة الثقافة والسياحة – أبوظبي، كرَّمت، منذ إطلاقها، 60 منشأة تجارية محلية في #أبوظبي ، تقديراً لإسهامها في تشكيل الهُوية الثقافية للإمارة، والحفاظ عليها للأجيال المقبلة. — مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) May 29, 2025 With the conclusion of its fourth edition, the Urban Treasures initiative has now honoured a total of 60 beloved local gems. . @dctabudhabi has honoured 15 recipients of the fourth edition of the Urban Treasures initiative in an annual ceremony celebrating long-running businesses that have shaped #AbuDhabi 's cultural and commercial landscape, contributing to the emirate's urban and social identity. — مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) May 29, 2025 With the conclusion of its fourth edition, the Urban Treasures initiative has now honoured a total of 60 beloved local gems across Abu Dhabi.
ARN News Center
29-05-2025
- Business
- ARN News Center
Abu Dhabi honours 15 firms as Urban Treasures
From pastry shops and perfumeries to restaurants and tailoring stores, 15 businesses in Abu Dhabi have been honoured with the Urban Treasure awards for shaping the capital's cultural and commercial landscape. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), presented the awards at a special ceremony at the Cultural Foundation in the capital city. "These establishments are enduring community pillars that reflect the spirit, resilience, and heritage of our emirate, and by celebrating them, we honour these human stories and traditions," said Al Mubarak The Urban Treasures was launched to recognise the city's homegrown businesses that have thrived for 20 years or more and to raise the profiles and preserve them for future generations. مبادرة "كنوز المدينة" من دائرة الثقافة والسياحة – أبوظبي، كرَّمت، منذ إطلاقها، 60 منشأة تجارية محلية في #أبوظبي ، تقديراً لإسهامها في تشكيل الهُوية الثقافية للإمارة، والحفاظ عليها للأجيال المقبلة. — مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) May 29, 2025 With the conclusion of its fourth edition, the Urban Treasures initiative has now honoured a total of 60 beloved local gems. . @dctabudhabi has honoured 15 recipients of the fourth edition of the Urban Treasures initiative in an annual ceremony celebrating long-running businesses that have shaped #AbuDhabi 's cultural and commercial landscape, contributing to the emirate's urban and social identity. — مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) May 29, 2025 With the conclusion of its fourth edition, the Urban Treasures initiative has now honoured a total of 60 beloved local gems across Abu Dhabi.
Al Etihad
29-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
DCT honours 15 recipients of 4th Urban Treasures initiative
29 May 2025 11:29 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced the recipients of the fourth edition of Urban Treasures Awards, an annual initiative celebrating long-running businesses that have shaped Abu Dhabi's cultural and commercial ceremony was held at Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi and Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, presented the award to 15 establishments selected from across the emirate, including 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 the conclusion of its fourth edition, the Urban Treasures initiative has now honoured a total of 60 beloved local gems across Abu Dhabi, each recognised for their contributions to the emirate's urban and social Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: 'The Urban Treasures initiative continues to shine a light on the longstanding businesses that have shaped Abu Dhabi's character over the decades. These establishments are enduring community pillars that reflect the spirit, resilience, and heritage of our emirate, and by celebrating them, we honour these human stories and traditions. With each successive edition, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving, protecting, and promoting the cultural identity of the UAE capital, ensuring its lasting resonance within our community and inspiring future generations to cherish and build upon its foundations.'The Urban Treasures Initiative was launched to recognise 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 last year, allowing them to be a part of celebrating the efforts of these establishments. These were then shortlisted and evaluated by a committee, which reviewed each establishment based on set criteria. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Al Etihad
28-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Fifteen businesses that have shaped Abu Dhabi's cultural and social landscape honoured as ‘Urban Treasures'
28 May 2025 23:38 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 businesses have contributed to cementing Abu Dhabi's position as one of the leading cities in the world for living and award forms part of the department's ongoing efforts to preserve the emirate's modern heritage and celebrate its rich 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 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 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 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.
