How Abu Dhabi is protecting culturally significant buildings

Launched in 2023 by the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi’s Modern Heritage initiative is helping to conserve 64 buildings and sites that have contributed to Abu Dhabi’s cultural identity in the last 50 years through their architectural, historical, societal or scientific significance, protecting them for future generations. They are testament to Abu Dhabi’s collective memory and play a significant role in preserving the city’s cultural identity for future generations. 

Identifying modern heritage in urban context 

The Cultural Heritage Law was decreed in 2016 by Abu Dhabi and recognises the inclusion of modern heritage along with archaeological sites and historic buildings as part of the city’s cultural heritage. Through this Modern Heritage initiative, the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism is identifying, safeguarding, and maintaining sites that have contributed to Abu Dhabi’s cultural identity in the last 50 years. 

“Modern heritage” refers to significant buildings in Abu Dhabi’s recent history which have character-defining elements such as material fabric, forms, location and setting, spatial configurations, uses and cultural associations or meanings. 

These sites may be important because they are associated with significant people or events that have shaped the Emirate. In an urban context, they are symbols of integrating modernisation with tradition or local paradigms of urban planning and architectural design in recent history. 

The first 64 structures include a hospital, a theatre, a school, mosques, parks, hotels, markets, and commercial buildings among many others. For instance, Al Manhal Palace was the first purpose-built presidential palace where the flag of the state was raised after the UAE joined the United Nations in 1971.  

Another example is Al Ibrahimi Building, an award-winning structure and one of the capital’s architectural masterpieces designed by prominent Egyptian architect Dr. Farouq El Gohary. There are also large-scale developments such as Sheikh Zayed Sports City, a distinct development in Abu Dhabi’s urban planning which hosts international and regional events in the city. 

Protecting cultural identity and sustainability by conserving modern heritage 

Conserving this modern heritage in Abu Dhabi is seen as a civic responsibility towards present and future generations, as these city landmarks provide a sense of permanence and continuity. They contribute to the liveability of the Emirate and the wellbeing of its residents by fostering a sense of community through place-making, collective memory and shared cultural identity.  

The Modern Heritage initiative also contributes to Abu Dhabi’s sustainability goals by reducing the carbon footprint resulting from building demolition and redevelopment. No demolition applications will be allowed for these buildings. Instead, they will be maintained and rehabilitated in accordance with their designated grade.  

The Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism will continue to survey Abu Dhabi’s built environment to identify and inventory other modern heritage sites to be formally registered for protection and conservation. Protecting and leveraging Abu Dhabi’s modern heritage contributes to nurturing Abu Dhabi’s aspiration to become a cultural capital.