Abu Dhabi identifies over 40 modern heritage sites

Abu Dhabi has listed more than 40 modern heritage sites that require immediate protection and preservation.

It's part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi's (DCT) Modern Heritage Conservation Initiative, which was announced in 2023 to safeguard and celebrate cultural heritage, strengthen national identity, and enhance public appreciation for the emirate’s diverse heritage assets. 

The list was formed following extensive research and documentation carried out by the team between 2023 and 2025, and adds to the first set of buildings identified in 2022.

Among the new additions are the former Abu Dhabi International Airport - Terminal 1, inaugurated in 1982, a landmark of the emirate’s early aviation era that marked a pivotal moment in Abu Dhabi’s connectivity and infrastructural growth. The Al Ain Museum, founded in 1969, is one of the UAE’s earliest cultural institutions, and has long served as a key reference point for the nation’s archaeological and ethnographic heritage.

Another notable site is the former National Consultative Council building (1968) in Abu Dhabi City, which played an important role in shaping early governance and civic dialogue during the formative decades of the federation.

"Abu Dhabi’s modern heritage is a cornerstone of our cultural identity, offering a powerful reflection of the emirate’s ongoing growth and development. By formally registering these pivotal sites, we reaffirm our commitment to the recognition, protection, preservation, and celebration of the architectural and urban legacy that has shaped our communities and continues to enrich our collective sense of place," said Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi.

Teams will begin rehabilitating these buildings in accordance with their designated grade.

The authority has also notified private owners of the listed buildings, who have the right to file an appeal within the 15-day period as stipulated by law.

The list

• Mohammed Habroush Al Suwaidi Building
• ZADCO Building
• Sheikh Saif bin Mohamed Al Nahyan Building (La Brioche Building)
• Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Tower (Corniche Tower)
• Madinat Zayed Bus Station
• Raha Beach Rest House
• Corniche Hospital
• Al-Kuwaitat Complex – UAEU Students' Housing
• Green Souk – Bani Yas
• Green Souk – Al Shahama
• Khalad Bin Swied Al Ansari Mosque
• Haseen Rashid Al Hajri Building
• Former National Consultative Council
• Former Al Ain City Center Town Clinics
• Al Ain City Municipality Campus, including Al Ain City Municipality building and the Town Planning Sector building
•  Capital Park Urban Ensemble, including Capital Park and Garden Tower
• Emergencies Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi
• Hili Archaeological Park Garden
• Al Natlah Resthouse (Al Neyadat)
• Former Abu Dhabi International Airport (Terminal 1)
• SABIS® International School – Al Bateen
• Former Delma Island Post Office
• Sir Bani Yas Eastern Water Tank
• Sir Bani Yas Southern Water Tank
• Delma Island Water Silos
• Al Dhannah City Water Towers
• The International School of Choueifat – Al Ain
• Al Jouri Kindergarten
• Emirates Post – Khalidiya Post Office
• Emirates Post – Hamdan Post Office
• Emirates Post – Al Ain Industrial Area Post Office
• Al Dhafra Sports & Culture Club
• Abu Dhabi Cedar Fountain
• Abu Dhabi Geneva Flower Clock
• Al Ain Museum
• Al Murabaa Police Museum
• Islamiya English School – Abu Dhabi