Sheikh Zayed Festival dates announced

The Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Festival is undoubtedly a highlight of the winter season.

Held in honor of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE, this year’s festival will once again be held in Al Wathba, about a 50-minute drive from Abu Dhabi’s Corniche. It will begin on November 17 and run until March 9.

The agenda for this year will feature a wide range of events, programs, and activations that focus on heritage and keeping current generations linked to the country’s history.

The festival is open between 4 pm and midnight from Monday to Friday, and from 4 pm until 1 am during weekends and on public holidays.

Tickets are priced at Dhs5 per person. Entry is free for people of determination, kids under the age of three, and seniors aged 60+.

Tickets are not yet available to buy but will be available soon on the Zayed Festival website.

Created as a way to champion Emirati culture and heritage, you’ll be able to learn more about traditional industries and crafts at the heritage village.

This year will also see a larger participation from other countries, via governmental and non-governmental sectors. At their dedicated pavilions and exhibitions, they will offer a glimpse into their unique culture and heritage.

The festival is consciously designed to be family-friendly, ensuring a warm atmosphere for visitors. In fact, visitors to the festival include not just Abu Dhabi citizens and residents, but tourists from all over the globe.

New to the festival will be a Union Parade that aims to reflect the Emirati’s sense of belonging and loyalty to leadership and unity that brings the country closer together. There will also be National Day celebrations that include special shows and performances at the Heritage Village and international pavilions such as folk art shows, military musical performances, fireworks, and drone displays.

Elsewhere, there will be an agricultural excellence award; a rare species reserve; the Al Wathba Custom Show; the Children’s City; the Fun Fair City; the Glow Flower Garden; the House of Fear; an art district; and various competitions and draws.

The festival takes place in a venue that resembles a fort. Past events have featured international cultural pavilions, eclectic music performances, and amusement park rides. However, details have yet to be revealed for this year’s program.