DCT Abu Dhabi Launches Call for Heritage Business Awards

Post by : Mara Rahim

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced that the public can now nominate longstanding businesses for the fifth edition of the Urban Treasures awards. This initiative recognises establishments that have played an important role in Abu Dhabi’s cultural and social life while remaining operational for 20 years or more. The awards aim to celebrate these businesses as enduring local gems and highlight their contribution to the city’s heritage.

Nominations are open until 30th November and include a wide range of business types. Eligible establishments cover cafes, restaurants, bakeries, sweet shops, textile stores, tailors, perfumeries, jewellers, pharmacies, and photography studios. The initiative seeks to honour businesses that have not only survived the test of time but continue to engage and serve the local community, preserving traditions while contributing to Abu Dhabi’s economy.

After nominations close, DCT Abu Dhabi will conduct a six-month shortlisting process to evaluate the submissions. From this, 15 businesses will be selected to be formally recognised at the annual Urban Treasures ceremony. The awards provide a platform for these establishments to receive special recognition, highlighting their historical significance and contribution to Abu Dhabi’s cultural fabric.

Launched five years ago, the Urban Treasures initiative emphasises the importance of heritage businesses in shaping the city’s identity. It is part of DCT Abu Dhabi’s broader mission to preserve living heritage and honour the legacy of establishments that remain integral to community life. The programme not only celebrates business longevity but also reinforces the connection between the emirate’s history and modern social life.

Selected businesses receive promotional support and branded materials that showcase their Urban Treasures status. This recognition helps to attract both residents and tourists, enhancing visibility and appreciation for these long-standing establishments. The awards serve as a symbol of pride, acknowledging the dedication and perseverance of business owners who have maintained quality, service, and tradition over two decades.

By recognising these businesses, the Urban Treasures awards highlight their vital role in maintaining Abu Dhabi’s social and cultural continuity. The programme also encourages younger generations to appreciate local traditions, understand the city’s evolution, and value the contribution of heritage businesses in enriching urban life. It ensures that Abu Dhabi’s historical establishments continue to be celebrated for years to come.

DCT Abu Dhabi is encouraging residents and visitors alike to participate by nominating businesses they feel deserve recognition. The initiative fosters a sense of community involvement and ensures that those who have positively impacted the city’s heritage are honoured. Public engagement is key to identifying true Urban Treasures that reflect Abu Dhabi’s diverse cultural landscape.

The Urban Treasures awards provide a unique opportunity to preserve Abu Dhabi’s heritage while celebrating businesses that remain an essential part of the city’s identity. Through this initiative, DCT Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen the link between past and present, honouring establishments that embody the spirit, culture, and history of the emirate.