ABSTRACT
The Abu Dhabi regions were renamed, from Eastern and Western regions to Al Ain and Al Dhafra. Abu Dhabi has grown by leaps and bounds since 1761 when, following the discovery of potable water, the Bani Yas tribe moved their base from the hinterland to this coastal settlement. Understanding the process of urban growth in Abu Dhabi requires an understanding of the various historical, political, socio-economic, cultural, and globalized processes that have impacted the city’s formation before and after the discovery of oil. Abu Dhabi presents a case study on how to balance planning for a small indigenous population – expressing or maintaining their civic identity – and ensuring that the non-national population is accounted for as well. Abu Dhabi is a significant example of planning for urban sprawl. Since the late 1960s, Abu Dhabi has been planned around the car, oil wealth making possible the importation of motor vehicles.
