Public Nominations Open for Abu Dhabi Urban Treasures 2027

Public nominations have opened for the sixth edition of Urban Treasures, inviting residents and community members to put forward longstanding businesses across Abu Dhabi for recognition.

The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi is accepting submissions from October 20th to November 20th, 2026. Eligible establishments must have operated continuously in the emirate for at least 20 years.

Businesses that can be nominated include cafés, restaurants, bakeries, sweet shops, textile stores, tailors, perfumeries, jewellers, pharmacies and photography studios, as well as other long-running neighbourhood establishments.

The programme is intended to recognise businesses that have remained part of community life over several generations, including family-run shops and services with longstanding local significance.

After a six-month evaluation process, 15 businesses will be shortlisted and formally honoured at the annual Urban Treasures ceremony. Selected establishments will receive official recognition, promotional support and branded materials identifying them as Urban Treasures.

Nominations can be submitted through the programme’s online form, with further information available through Abu Dhabi Culture.