Living in Abu Dhabi

An Overview of Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates, which lies on the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and west and Oman to the southeast, while Qatar lies to the northwest. The Emirate accounts for over 80 percent of the UAE’s total land area and is home to a population of around 4 million. Twenty percent of residents are UAE Nationals while expatriates make up the rest of this culturally diverse population.

Abu Dhabi has a sub-tropical climate with sunshine almost all year round, little rainfall (on average less than 120mm per year), and comfortable winter temperatures. The region reaches high temperatures during the summer months; however, air-conditioning is a standard and offers welcome comfort during this time. Temperatures the rest of the year are quite pleasant with warm, clear days and cool nights.

Growth & Development

Endowed with rich natural resources, the UAE’s economy is dominated by oil exports, with the hydrocarbon industry representing a large portion of the country’s gross domestic product. Abu Dhabi holds 9 percent of the world’s proven oil reserves and almost 5 percent of the world’s proven supplies of natural gas. The country’s economy has become increasingly diversified in recent years, thanks in large part to a strategic portfolio of investments and partnerships.

Abu Dhabi has carefully planned its growth and development to ensure a deep connection with its people, its heritage and its environment in line with the Government’s Abu Dhabi Vision 2030. Its strategic approach focuses on enriching the lives of the people of the Emirate and the nation fueled by the proceeds of Abu Dhabi’s finite oil and gas resources.

Increased financial transparency and accountability, the development of a robust regulatory framework and a coordinated approach to long term urban planning are all hallmarks of the Government’s approach to growth and development. Combined with business-friendly free zones such as Abu Dhabi Global Market Square, which is adjacent to Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, these initiatives attract overseas investors, support Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification and help in the development of new knowledge-based industries, such as alternative energy, aviation, aerospace, biotechnology, life sciences, financial services, media, transport and logistics, tourism and basic industries such as aluminum and plastics.

Healthcare in Abu Dhabi

The Government of Abu Dhabi is taking steps to improve access to world-class treatment, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for care as part of its Vision 2030.

There have already been significant developments within the regulatory landscape, such as the introduction of employer-funded medical insurance for all residents. These regulatory reforms, implemented by Health Authority - Abu Dhabi (HAAD), have paved the way for increased private sector involvement and international partnerships with world-class healthcare providers.

For more information on the healthcare environment in Abu Dhabi, visit the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi website.

Culture & Heritage

Abu Dhabi has a vibrant culture fusing the modern with the traditional. New buildings, new industries and new ideas co-exist with a rich culture and heritage firmly rooted in Islamic tradition. Abu Dhabi Tourism & Cultural Authority is continually devising programs, exhibitions and festivals to celebrate this combination of old and new which make the Emirate so distinctive and such a dynamic place to balance work and life.

Schools

Abu Dhabi offers a large number of excellent private primary and secondary schools as well as day-care centers, kindergartens and nursery schools. These schools cater to the needs of a very diverse global resident population.

For more information about child education in Abu Dhabi and to access the school locator, please visit the Abu Dhabi Education Council website.

Lifestyle & Leisure

Abu Dhabi boasts a range of leisure activities for all ages and lifestyles. From luxurious hotels and spas, world-wide cuisine restaurants and nightlife, to beautifully landscaped golf courses, the Corniche and some of the world’s best shopping (traditional souqs and contemporary malls), Abu Dhabi is a vibrant city for both work and leisure. Its location also makes it a gateway to multiple travel destinations throughout Africa, Asia, Europe and the Indian Subcontinent, all within a six-hour flight.