Abu Dhabi adds 40 modern landmarks to its protected heritage register
Abu Dhabi has expanded its Modern Heritage Register with 40 new sites, marking a major step in preserving the emirate's recent history. The Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi) announced the additions after three years of research and documentation. Residents are now being encouraged to help identify and nominate more locations that shaped the capital's development.
The newly listed sites include well-known landmarks such as Terminal 1 of Abu Dhabi International Airport, Al Ain Museum, and the Former National Consultative Council. Each will now receive legal protection under the 2016 Cultural Heritage Law.
The 40 sites added to the register range from mosques and parks to water towers and government buildings. Among them, the Corniche Hospital and Terminal 1—opened in 1982—stand out as key parts of Abu Dhabi's growth. The move follows a detailed process of research, documentation, and safeguarding work carried out between 2023 and 2025.
Once officially listed, these sites gain strict protections. Owners face restrictions on demolition or major changes, while the DCT will conduct regular inspections. Financial grants and incentives for restoration will also be available, and any adaptive reuse must meet conservation standards. Private owners have already been notified and have 15 days to file an appeal if needed.
The initiative reinforces Abu Dhabi's commitment to preserving its cultural legacy. By prioritising maintenance and rehabilitation based on each site's grade, the DCT aims to strengthen national identity. The effort also seeks to deepen public appreciation for the stories behind the emirate's evolving skyline.
DCT Abu Dhabi has emphasised that protecting the capital's heritage is a shared responsibility. Residents are now invited to play an active role by suggesting other sites that hold historical or cultural significance.
The updated Modern Heritage Register ensures that key buildings and landmarks remain part of Abu Dhabi's future. Legal protections, maintenance requirements, and financial support will help safeguard these sites for generations. The DCT's ongoing work highlights the emirate's dedication to balancing progress with the preservation of its past.
