Abu dhabi: The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced 15 establishments as the latest additions to the Urban Treasures in the initiative's fifth edition. Now marking five years since its launch, Urban Treasures has become one of DCT Abu Dhabi's key modern heritage initiatives, recognizing businesses that have served generations of residents and contributed to the evolving identity of Abu Dhabi.
According to Emirates News Agency, across five editions, a total of 75 establishments have been honored for the role they have played in shaping the emirate's social, cultural, and urban landscape. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, presented awards to the winning establishments during a ceremony held at the Cultural Foundation on 16 June. The recognized establishments include Alamal Medical Centre, Shahbaz Traders, Miss J Caf©, Restaurant Dubai Special Kabab Grills LLC, Kanaan Gents Saloon LLC, Zubaid Tailors and Textile Exhibition, Ghandour Cafeteria, Al Bahri Dental and Orthodontic Center, Husam Cafeteria, Abid Trading Store, Syria Cafeteria, Al Qusoor Tailoring and Garments, SeaShell Cafeterias, ADCOOP Hypermarket, and Top Man Gents Garments.
The winners represent sectors ranging from food and beverage, tailoring and fashion to healthcare, beauty, and personal services. This year's honorees reflect the diversity of businesses that have helped define daily life in Abu Dhabi and remained embedded in their communities over decades.
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak emphasized the importance of these institutions, stating, "Abu Dhabi is home to countless longstanding institutions that continue to serve people from all walks of life across the emirate. These establishments embody the entrepreneurial drive and sense of belonging that have long driven the emirate forward. The Urban Treasures initiative reflects our commitment to recognizing the businesses that have played an integral role in shaping our social and cultural fabric."
Urban Treasures was established to identify and honor longstanding businesses that have operated in Abu Dhabi for more than 20 years and become enduring points of connection within the community. Eligible establishments span categories including restaurants, bakeries, tailors, textile stores, perfumeries, jewelers, pharmacies, photography studios, and other locally rooted enterprises.
The initiative forms part of DCT Abu Dhabi's wider Modern Heritage Initiative, which works to document, preserve, and celebrate the emirate's recent history alongside its deep cultural heritage. Nominations for Urban Treasures 2026 were opened to the public, reinforcing DCT Abu Dhabi's commitment to community participation in identifying the places that matter most to residents.
Through Urban Treasures, DCT Abu Dhabi continues to recognize that heritage is not only found in historic sites, but also in the businesses, relationships, and shared experiences that create a sense of belonging and help define the character of the city.