The 2023 edition of Abu Dhabi cultural statistics aims to further structure the data and the methodology developed in the Introductory Cultural Activities Baseline report. Like its predecessor, this report utilises the cultural data collection method based on the statistical definition of culture established by the ESSnet-Culture framework, developed by Eurostat’s European Working Group on Cultural Statistics. This framework is comprehensively documented, encompassing all fundamental domains and functions of the culture sector. It also provides a systematic set of definitions and methodologies. While aligned with the UNESCO framework, this approach places greater emphasis on capturing cultural assets and their intrinsic value, thus enabling the development of a framework for a cultural resource capable of ensuring continued advancement and accuracy in understanding and regulating Abu Dhabi’s cultural landscape.