Abu Dhabi Renames Two Popular Areas To Honor Heritage

by Vaishnavi Venkataraman
Abu Dhabi Renames Two Popular Areas To Honor Heritage

The UAE is a land of culture and heritage and staying true to this, two areas in the capital city have been renamed. Al Maqta and Bawabat Abu Dhabi are separated from the main island by a body of water. However, they will now collectively be known as Rabdan.

The name comes from the name of the Founding Father Sheikh Zayed’s horse as well as the name one of President Sheikh Khalifa’s horses. The name also represents strength, courage and fearlessness. The name was changed in order to include an interpretation of the country’s heritage. Al Maqta was separated from the main island. Prior to the construction of the Al Maqta bridge in 1968, the narrow waterway had to be crossed by car,  but only during low-tide.

Credits: The National
Credits: The National

Bawabat or the doorway to Abu Dhabi lies opposite Al Maqta and connects to the city via the Mussaffah bridge. On 8 July, the Dubai Municipality announced that both these areas will be merged and collectively known as Rabdan.

In addition, under the direction of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, the Ras Ghorab Island was also renamed Al Aliah. Recently, Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhabi area in the West Coast, was renamed Asl Nouf. The renaming is done to retain the local heritage in the names of regions and cities. And in case you’re planning a trip to Abu Dhabi, here are things you must now miss.

Abu Dhabi’s First Drive-In Cinema To Open At Yas Marina Circuit

After Dubai and Sharjah, Abu Dhabi is all set to get its first drive-in cinema. The new drive-in venue, in partnership with Reel Cinemas will screen films three days a week. Movie buffs can watch their favorite flick on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm. The drive in opens today, 9 July with the screening of Mad Max: Fury Road. 

A series of other films have been lined up for the week. Guests can watch Joker on Friday, July 10, and Crazy Rich Asians on Saturday, July 11, according to the Yas Marina Circuit website. The timings for these shows are yet to be announced.

As for the drive-in rules at Yas Marina, only two people are allowed per vehicle and the cinema space can hold 65 cars. Upon arrival, guests will be directed to a specific parking spot and are requested to remain in the vehicles at all times with the exception of using the restroom. Movie snacks can be ordered from inside the car. Guests must wear face masks if windows are lowered to speak to event staff or when leaving the car.

The price of the tickets are yet to be announced, but they will go on sale on Thursday, July 2. And in case you’re looking for other fun venues now open in Dubai, Ice Rinks, Museums, The Green Planet And Ski Dubai Are Now Open.

Meanwhile, there’s a lot more you can do when you’re at the Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

The Yas Island Abu Dhabi is truly a vacation paradise with endless experiences for all. From theme parks that satiate thrill seekers, to international shopping experiences for fashionistas, and an impressive dining scene, the Yas Island has a little something for everyone to holiday at leisure. Here’s how you can Enjoy A Weekend Of Leisure At Yas Island Abu Dhabi. And if you’re an adventure junkie, but aren’t up to head out just yet, here’s a virtual tour of the island.