Imagine strolling through the bustling Green Souk or recalling the first day at Al Jouri Kindergarten—these places aren’t just part of Abu Dhabi’s landscape; they’re woven into the very fabric of its people’s lives. But here’s where it gets even more meaningful: over 40 such sites, including Corniche Hospital and Madinat Zayed Bus Station, have now been officially preserved as modern heritage, ensuring they’ll continue to tell their stories for generations to come. This isn’t just about saving buildings; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and identities tied to them.
On February 15, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) announced that these cherished locations will be legally protected, building on the initial list of modern heritage sites identified in 2022. The latest additions are the result of meticulous documentation and research conducted between 2023 and 2025, highlighting the emirate’s commitment to honoring its recent past. Unlike traditional heritage sites, which often focus on ancient history, this modern register celebrates the everyday spaces where residents have lived, worked, studied, and connected—schools, post offices, hospitals, markets, and more.
And this is the part most people miss: these aren’t just random buildings; they’re the backdrops to countless personal stories. Take Khalidiya Post Office, for instance—how many love letters, job offers, or family updates passed through its doors? Or Corniche Hospital, where generations were born, healed, and cared for. These places aren’t just structures; they’re witnesses to life itself.
Among the newly protected landmarks are:
- Green Souk in Bani Yas and Al Shahama – A vibrant hub of commerce and community.
- Corniche Hospital – A cornerstone of healthcare and countless personal milestones.
- Al Jouri Kindergarten – Where many took their first steps into education.
- Madinat Zayed Bus Station – A gateway for travelers and commuters.
- Khalidiya and Hamdan Post Offices – Silent facilitators of communication.
- Al-Kuwaitat Complex – Home away from home for UAEU students.
The list also includes historic sites tied to the UAE’s early development, such as Al Ain Museum, established in 1969 as one of the nation’s first cultural institutions, and the former Abu Dhabi International Airport Terminal 1, which opened in 1982 during the emirate’s aviation boom. Even the former National Consultative Council building, dating back to 1968, is preserved, symbolizing the nation’s early governance.
But here’s the controversial part: while most celebrate this initiative, some argue that modern heritage sites might not carry the same weight as ancient landmarks. Is preserving a 20th-century post office as important as safeguarding a centuries-old mosque? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments—do these modern sites deserve the same level of recognition?
Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, emphasizes the initiative’s significance: “Abu Dhabi’s modern heritage is a cornerstone of our cultural identity, reflecting our growth and development. By protecting these sites, we preserve the architectural and urban legacy that defines our communities.” This effort aligns with Abu Dhabi’s 2016 Cultural Heritage Law, which safeguards both tangible and intangible heritage, including modern landmarks.
So, what does this designation mean? These sites will be maintained and restored according to their heritage classification. Private owners have been notified and can appeal within 15 days, as per the law. DCT Abu Dhabi will continue surveying the emirate to identify more culturally significant locations.
For residents, this initiative is more than preservation—it’s an invitation to see familiar places through a new lens. That bus station isn’t just a transit point; it’s part of a shared journey. That kindergarten isn’t just a school; it’s where futures began. These sites aren’t just part of Abu Dhabi’s past; they’re chapters in its ongoing story. What’s your connection to these places? Share your memories and thoughts below—let’s keep the conversation going!
