dhabi

Dhabi is most commonly encountered as a shorthand or informal reference to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, or to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It is not an officially recognized separate political entity.

The name Abu Dhabi is Arabic for "Father of Dhabi"; the precise origin of Dhabi as a person or place name is debated in historical sources. In modern usage, Dhabi without Abu is rarely used in official contexts.

Geographically, Abu Dhabi city sits on the western coast of the UAE along the Persian Gulf. The Emirate of Abu Dhabi is the largest of the seven emirates, extending from the Gulf coast into the inland desert and containing urban centers such as Abu Dhabi City and Al Ain, as well as numerous islands.

Economically, the emirate has long depended on oil and gas, but has pursued diversification into finance, real estate, tourism, and renewable energy. Major landmarks include the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Masdar City; infrastructure and cultural institutions have been expanded as part of a growth strategy.

The emirate is governed by an Emir from the Al Nahyan family. Since 2022, the ruler of Abu Dhabi and the president of the United Arab Emirates has been Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Abu Dhabi is a key member of the federal union of the UAE.