Is Abu Dhabi Bigger than Dubai?
When it comes to comparing cities within the United Arab Emirates (UAE), two prominent names often come to mind: Abu Dhabi and Dubai. While both cities are iconic and known for their advancements, when it comes to sheer size, Abu Dhabi is undoubtedly the bigger of the two. This article delves into a comprehensive comparison of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, covering their land area, population, and other relevant details.
Land Area Comparison: Abu Dhabi vs Dubai
In terms of land area, Abu Dhabi significantly outpaces Dubai. Abu Dhabi, the capital and largest emirate of the UAE, spans approximately 67,340 square kilometers, making it the largest emirate in the country. This vast expanse includes various regions, like the Rub Al Khali desert, which is some of the least populated areas in the world.
On the other hand, Dubai, known for its vibrant economic activities and tourism, has an area of only about 4,114 square kilometers. While Dubai is more densely populated and culturally active, the sheer size and geographical scale of Abu Dhabi remain unparalleled.
Population and City Size
While Abu Dhabi is more expansive, Dubai holds the record for population density. Dubai's population stands at approximately 3.5 million people, making it one of the most populous cities in the world. In contrast, Abu Dhabi's population is around 1.2 million people, giving it a more spread-out feel despite its larger land area.
In terms of city size, Abu Dhabi has a city area of about 972 square kilometers (375 square miles), while Dubai's city area is roughly 1,165 square kilometers (450 square miles). Despite having a smaller population, Abu Dhabi's vast land can still feel quite spacious for its inhabitants.
Other Relevant Details
The other emirates of the UAE also play a significant role in the overall geography. Abu Dhabi holds 84% of the total land area of the UAE, while Dubai comprises only 5%. This means Abu Dhabi is about 17 times larger in terms of land share than Dubai, which is just 5%, along with the remaining land shared among the other five emirates.
The largest city in Abu Dhabi is, of course, Abu Dhabi itself, but there are also other significant cities and towns such as Al Ain, Al Mirfa, Ruwais, Madinat Zayed, and the Liwa Oasis. These cities contribute to the diverse and rich landscape of the emirate.
For expats living in the UAE, the vast size of Abu Dhabi can be a surprise, especially if they primarily focus on areas near Dubai like Dubai city itself. Abu Dhabi is around 100 kilometers (62 miles) away from Dubai city, and much of the emirate remains untouched by urbanization, reflecting its natural and desert landscapes.
Conclusion
While both Abu Dhabi and Dubai are impressive cities in their own right, Abu Dhabi's size cannot be ignored. With a land area of approximately 67,340 square kilometers, Abu Dhabi is the largest emirate in the UAE, providing a significant contrast to Dubai's bustling 4,114 square kilometers. Both cities, however, offer unique and compelling experiences, and their size and character make them integral parts of the UAE's global appeal.