A new domain for Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi now has its own web address in English (.abudhabi) and Arabic.

These addresses are expected to enhance online business and attract more global attention, tourism and commerce to the emirate.

They will “represent the emirate’s digital identity in the virtual world” state-news agency Wam said.

“The launch of [the] Abu Dhabi domain name enhances Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s distinguished position, as well as the economic activity and e-presence of registered entities in the UAE,” said Hamad Al Mansoori, director general of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority.

The address was agreed between the authority, the Abu Dhabi Smart Solutions and Services Authority and Etisalat.

Final approval for the .abudhabi and .dubai web addresses was sought from the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers in February, 2014.

It is not yet known which organisation will authorise purchases of the web addresses with the capital’s suffix, and whether it will be made available to government departments, private companies or individuals.

Mr Al Mansoori said the partnership would “raise the nation’s global innovation index” and “promote Abu Dhabi in touristic, cultural and economic fields”.

The agreement will “enrich Abu Dhabi’s technological systems”, said Dr Rauda Al Saadi, director general of the smart solutions authority.

A year ago, Dubai released its own typeface, the Dubai Font which combines Latin and Arabic texts, to mixed reactions from international media.

Like the Abu Dhabi web address, it was about fostering a new digital identity. It was Microsoft’s first typeface to be created for a city.

The launch enhances Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s distinguished position, as well as economic activity and e-presence HAMAD AL MANSOORI Director general, TRA