# Dhabi

/ˈdɑbi/ (US) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dhabi
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. It is a large, modern city located on an island in the Persian Gulf.

For teachers: the capital and second-most populous city of the United Arab Emirates, situated on an island off the central western coast. When used in political contexts, it often serves as a metonym for the federal government of the UAE.

## Examples

- Abu Dhabi is famous for its beautiful architecture.
- Many international business travelers visit Abu Dhabi to attend conferences at the city's large exhibition centers.
- The rapid urban development of Abu Dhabi has transformed it from a small fishing village into a global hub for finance, culture, and renewable energy research.

## Usage notes

- Almost exclusively used as part of the proper name 'Abu Dhabi'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.