The Sheikh Zayed Festival 2024-2025 is set to be a grand celebration of the UAE’s rich heritage, featuring over 1,000 shows and a plethora of cultural events. Scheduled to take place in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi from November 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025, this festival promises to attract millions of visitors from around the globe.
Key Takeaways
- Dates: November 1, 2024 – February 28, 2025
- Location: Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi
- Number of Shows: Over 1,000
- Participating Countries: More than 27
- Special Events: National Day celebrations, fireworks, heritage sports, and more.
A Celebration of Heritage
Under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the festival aims to celebrate the UAE’s cultural heritage through a variety of entertainment and cultural events. The theme for this year’s festival is ‘Hayakum’ (Arabic for Welcome), reflecting a new vision and identity.
Diverse Events and Activities
The festival will feature:
- 6,000 International Cultural Events
- Major Public Events: Including the ‘Union Parade’ to celebrate the unity of the UAE.
- National Day Celebrations: Special programs and activities from December 2, featuring folk art shows, parades, and fireworks.
Heritage Village
At the heart of the festival lies the Heritage Village, showcasing:
- Traditional Markets: Offering handicrafts and local products.
- Live Heritage Performances: Engaging visitors with the UAE’s rich traditions.
- Emirati Tent Restaurant (Al Kheimah): A culinary journey into the past.
Record-Breaking Fireworks
The festival will also host spectacular fireworks displays, including:
- New Year Celebrations: A two-week festival featuring record-setting fireworks.
- Weekly Fireworks: To keep the excitement alive throughout the festival.
Heritage Sports and Competitions
The Sheikh Zayed Festival will include various heritage sports events, such as:
- Dhow Sailing Race
- Falconry Competition
- Camel Racing Grand Prize
- Traditional Cooking Competition
Unique Exhibitions
Visitors can look forward to:
- Honey Exhibition: Showcasing the finest types of honey.
- Date Festival: Highlighting local date varieties.
- Skills Programme: Featuring competitions for students in technical fields.
Car Show and More
Car enthusiasts will enjoy:
- Al Wathba Custom Show: Learn about classic car restoration and modifications.
- Various Festivals: Including the Children’s Festival, Food Festival, and more.
Floating Market Experience
The festival will introduce the Al Wathba Floating Market, featuring:
- Asian Activities: Traditional crafts and culinary delights.
- Rare Species Reserve: An opportunity to learn about rare animals and birds.
The Sheikh Zayed Festival 2024-2025 promises to be a vibrant celebration of culture, heritage, and community, making it a must-visit event for locals and tourists alike.