The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is inviting the public to nominate longstanding businesses for the fifth edition of the annual Urban Treasures awards. This accolade celebrates historically significant cultural establishments that continue to serve the emirate as local gems.
Nominations are open to the public until 30 November, welcoming everyone to put forward establishments they consider worthy of being recognised as ‘Urban Treasures’. This includes, but is not limited to cafes, restaurants, bakeries, sweet shops, textile stores, tailors, perfumeries, jewellers, pharmacies, and photography studios that have been operating in Abu Dhabi for 20 years or more.By the end of a six-month shortlisting process, the 15 chosen establishments will be honoured at the Urban Treasures annual ceremony.
The annual initiative by DCT Abu Dhabi, now in its fifth year, recognises the significance of decades-old businesses that have moulded Abu Dhabi into the diverse, modern city it is today, fostering community and connection among citizens and residents. These establishments have contributed to shaping the social and cultural fabric of the emirate and strengthening its economy.
It is also part of a wider commitment by DCT Abu Dhabi to promote, preserve, and protect the emirate’s cultural heritage, highlighting the everyday establishments that have become lasting symbols of Abu Dhabi’s identity. In recognition of their contribution over the past two decades, Abu Dhabi is honouring these establishments as treasured icons that continue to serve current and future generations of the city.
What is that one place in Abu Dhabi that still feels like home to you? The bakery where you would grab a snack before school, the tailor who knew your family, the restaurant where every weekend meal turned into a family tradition? Nominate your timeless Urban Treasure and help honour the establishments that shaped Abu Dhabi’s story.
Through the Urban Treasures initiative, recognised businesses receive distinguished recognition and promotional support, including branded materials that highlight their designation to both residents and tourists.
Nominations for Urban Treasures 2026 can be submitted on the following online form here. For more information about Urban Treasures, or to find out which establishments have been recognised as Urban Treasures in past years, please visitAbu Dhabi Culture.
