CELEBRATE IN ABU DHABI

SHEIKH ZAYED FESTIVAL
Dates: November 2024 to March 2025*

Named in honour of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the UAE, the Sheikh Zayed Festival enlightens visitors interested in the legacy of the nation’s founder and celebrates the UAE’s rich culture and heritage through handicrafts and traditional performing arts. A central attraction is the UAE Heritage District, which hosts exhibitions and popular markets. The Sheikh Zayed Festival also features camel races, falconry shows, competitions and fireworks. Another highlight is The World Heritage District , showcasing the architectural heritage, crafts, products and traditional arts of other countries.

AL HOSN FESTIVAL
Dates: January 2025*

Al Hosn Festival is a living expression of Abu Dhabi’s culture and a celebration of the Emirate’s heritage. It is held annually at Al Hosn, home to the city’s most treasured historic site, Qasr Al Hosn. Visitors are invited to step back in time, immersing themselves in the traditions of the Emirati community, from our renowned hospitality and cuisine to experiencing firsthand the attire, customs, performances and crafts that shape our lives today. Al Hosn is where our diverse communities come together to make unexpected discoveries, build connections with our past and take part in Abu Dhabi’s evolving narrative.

AL DHAFRA FESTIVAL
Dates: January to February 2025*

In the western part of Abu Dhabi lies Al Dhafra, a region whose name means “where the desert meets the sea.” This land of untold stories and secrets features everything from ancient sites to secluded beaches. One of the most exciting events in the region is the Al Dhafra Festival, celebrating the essence of Bedouin life in the heart of the Empty Quarter.

Held at the edge of the Rub’ Al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert and surrounded by towering sand dunes, Al Dhafra Festival showcases the community and cultural practices that have defined Bedouin life for generations.

One of the Festival’s most exciting events is the mazayna, or camel beauty contest, which attracts tens of thousands of camels from across the Arabian Peninsula. The competition focuses on purebred breeds from the Asayel (pedigree) and Majaheem (dark-skinned) lineages, offering visitors a glimpse at this unique cultural practice.

Hundreds of men and women from tribes across the region descend on Al Dhafra Festival to exhibit and compete in events that bring to life the most vibrant elements of the Bedouin lifestyle. This includes purebred Arabian horse racing, Arabian Saluki dog races, falconry and handicrafts, Khoos (palm frond) weaving, Talli (embroidery), and more. Other activities include a beauty contest for sheep, date palm and packaging competitions, as well
as traditional Emirati performing arts.

*dates to be confirmed