Abu Dhabi, Arabic Abū Ẓaby, City (pop., 2005 est.: 633,136), capital of Abū Ẓaby emirate and national capital of the United Arab Emirates. It occupies most of the small island of Abū Ẓaby, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge. Settled in 1761, it began to develop rapidly following the discovery of petroleum in 1958; oil royalties revolutionized Abu Dhabi’s political and economic position, and it has grown into a modern city and regional hub.
Discover