As Dsouza summarised, “What is fascinating about Abu Dhabi is that it is focussed on two fronts; preservation and development, as well as modernisation.”
Along parallel lines Beneski elaborated on how the juxtaposition of old and new ensures that each and every traveller is pleased.
“From the charm of Qasr Al Hosn to the modernity of the new skyline, there is so much for visitors to see and experience,” she said.
Dsouza continued, “While care is being taken to protect the emirate’s unique archaeological heritage and remarkable natural landscape, a whole new cultural quarter is being built on Saadiyat Island.”
Currently under development, Saadiyat Cultural District is set to appeal to locals and tourists alike with its world-class museums, including the highly anticipated Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Acknowledging the significance of the project, Beneski commented, “The addition of Louvre and upcoming museum attractions will shift the cultural tourism spotlight to Abu Dhabi. […].
Saadiyat Island is a win-win for the emirate and the country. It will forever change our landscape.”
Speaking about the destination’s evolving image, Dsouza added, “With the development of Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi will definitely tap into a more affluent, intellectual and discerning market which will help us grow a more sustainable tourism industry.”
TCA Abu Dhabi’s efforts to reposition the UAE capital as a cultural destination will undoubtedly prompt hotels to rethink their current strategies, suggested Dsouza.
“We will have more and more tourists coming to discover the history and cultural side of the city and we [will have] to plan a definite set of actions to cater to them,” he proposed.
Furthermore, the new cultural hub and similar projects will certainly act as catalysts for more hospitality provision going forward, predicted Dean.
A NEW WAVE OF ARTS
Nevertheless, Abu Dhabi’s standing as a hub for creativity and cultural innovation is not reliant on the imminent Saadiyat Island; the destination’s arts scene has be growing year after year, stated Beneski.
In particular, she deemed the new arts district, Warehouse421, as outstanding. The converted warehouses in Mina Zayed act as a platform for the emirate’s creative community to present art, music and performances to locals and visitors alike.
Furthermore, Beneski highlighted Abu Dhabi Classics, a programme that attracts some of the world’s brightest musicians to the city to showcase traditional Arabic performances as well as a range of international classical music.
With what she described as an abundance of exceptional events, including the annual Abu Dhabi Art and Abu Dhabi Festival, Beneski remarked, “One is truly spoilt for choice.”
Based on past years’ promising results, it is clear that TCA Abu Dhabi has done a remarkable job to boost this sector and turn these events into major attractions, observed Beneski, underlining the importance of supporting, encouraging and growing the emirate’s arts and music calendar.
