Al Gharbia 2030
With a heritage of more than 150,000 years of continuous human
habitation, Al Gharbia is blessed with a depth of cultural assets.
From the maritime legacy of fishing and pearling to the
agricultural activities of the inland tribes, the people and places
of Al Gharbia are inextricably tied to their ancient past while
heading toward a modern era of development and expansion.
Introduction to Al Gharbia
Situated between the Empty Quarter and the Arabian Gulf to the
west of Abu Dhabi, the Al Gharbia Region encompasses approximately
60,000 km2 including the country's richest oil and gas
reserves.
Al Gharbia offers a diversity of place and a unique reflection
upon the evolving Emirati lifestyle. Al Gharbia was paid particular
attention by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who
dedicated his efforts and time to develop the region and improve
the quality of life for its inhabitants.
Al Gharbia is characterized by a large geographic spread and low
population density. There are seven major settlements in the
region, each providing a range of services and opportunities to the
populace. These cities are Madinat Zayed, Mirfa, Ghayathi, Liwa,
Ruwais, Sila'a, and Delma. Population density is spread across
these seven cities, with the highest concentrations in Madinat
Zayed and Ruwais.
Key statistics box:
- Al Gharbia is 60,000 square kilometers: 83% of Abu Dhabi
Emirate's landmass
- Al Gharbia has a population of c.115,500 people (2006)
- Al Gharbia generates 40% of the Emirate's GDP - over AED 115
billion annually from its industries
The Vision of Plan Al Gharbia 2030
Plan Al Gharbia 2030 is designed to aid in moving Al Gharbia
toward the future with managed, responsible growth. Environmental
respect, social health, cultural identity and economic development
all share equal status and provide the opportunity to leverage
economic growth without sacrificing the cultural and historic
significance of the region for future generations.
Al Gharbia