Abu Dhabi’s Urban Treasures includes local cafés, restaurants and shops

Fifteen community businesses have been awarded the accolade.

Abu Dhabi is home to soaring skyscrapers, five-star hotels and MICHELIN-starred restaurants. While the luxury offerings attract visitors from around the world, Urban Treasures has put homegrown concepts in the spotlight. So, if you’re after some local treasures, put these on your radar. 

Now in its third edition, Urban Treasures celebrates homegrown concepts. The list includes 15 businesses across cafés, bakeries, sweet shops, restaurants, shops and more. What makes these venues special is the role they have played in shaping the culture and community. 

Abu Dhabi’s Urban Treasures include a range of restaurants. Alareesh Restaurant opened in 1990, and showcases Lebanese cuisine, and AlFarah Restaurant opened in 1998, and offers Middle Eastern cuisine. 

Abu Dhabi’s Urban Treasures includes a range of shops. Abu Dhabi Pottery Establishment gives visitors the chance to learn the craft of pottery. Al Ajayeb Bazaar is located in Al Ain, and includes sports products. Al Jazeera Studios and Stores is a luxury wedding events company. Al Mandoos is a footwear store, which prides itself on its Emirati craftsmanship. Abu Dhabi Potter 

Persian Carpets and Antiques Exhibition includes handmade carpets. Nasruddin Perfumes Shop opened in 1989, and it is located in the Old Souq. Rubou Zahla Trading Establishment sells fresh fruit and vegetables. Salem Al Shueibi Jewellery started in 1985 and is famous for its jewellery manufacturing. 

HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak explained: “Our Urban Treasures initiative preserves and promotes Abu Dhabi’s unique cultural identity, and reflects the great emotional significance these 15 establishments have held for our community for over 20 years. They hold a nostalgia for times past, while remaining anchors of the community to this day. These establishments have witnessed the capital’s growth and contributed to the identity and vitality of our neighbourhoods, strengthening the social and cultural fabric of the emirate.”

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GO: Visit https://abudhabiculture.ae for more information.