The city is situated in the western Al Dhafra region, 250km west of Abu Dhabi, and became a strategic location for the oil & gas industry. The transformation of Al Dhannah started in the 1970s when ADNOC (Abu Dhabi National Oil Company) chose the city as the base for a self-sufficient urban hub to accommodate its industrial staff.
The city was known in the past as “Al Yash”, and immediately after the refining and gas operations in the region, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, indicated that it should be called “Al Ruwais” city, as he had the vision to develop it, and led and officially opened it in the year 1982 AD. With the cultural and human renaissance and the development witnessed by the region, the wise leadership indicated a new vision for the city. Accordingly, it was named “Al Dhannah City”, and it included Jebel Dhannah area and the parallel beach.
Today, Al Dhannah is home to more than 70 nationalities that provide a complete residential environment with modern infrastructure that includes various educational institutions, health facilities, commercial and banking services, “Tamm” services, an integrated road network, and means of public transportation that serve and suit families. It has also become an ideal destination for tourists from all over the world to enjoy the beaches, entertainment facilities, hotels, and resorts.
The city also preserves the history and culture of the UAE through its traditional market and heritage village.
