Geography of the Middle East

Middle East geography from north to south.

Upgrade to Britannica Online

Take a tour, New improved britannica online

Imagine Britannica's 32-volume encyclopedia online right there for you, plus full access to articles. Amazing content, written by world experts, that you can cite for projects and assignments.

Click here for Britannica shop

Abu Dhabi

Arabic Abu Zaby

City (pop., 2005 est.: 633,136), capital of Ab emirate and national capital of the United Arab Emirates. It occupies most of the small island of Abu Zaby, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge. Settled in 1761, it began to develop rapidly following the discovery of petroleum in 1958; oil royalties revolutionized Abu Dhabi's political and economic position, and it has grown into a modern city and regional hub.

Find more information on Abu Dhabi. Upgrade to Britannica Online for more on Abu Dhabi.

  • Britannica, just as colourful as Singapore
  • Singapore is a legendary city. Britannica has a legendary reputation for knowledge. With just a few clicks you can access all the quality information you can trust, online.