Sheikh Zayed Festival Launches Tomorrow With Exciting Cultural Events In Abu Dhabi

The Sheikh Zayed Festival, under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is set to begin its 2024-2025 season on Friday. The event, themed "Hayakum," will run until 28th February in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi. Preparations are complete to welcome visitors with fireworks, drone displays, and other surprises celebrating this new edition.

This festival is one of the UAE's largest cultural and entertainment events, offering 120 days of diverse activities. The Higher Organising Committee has enhanced this year's edition to delight visitors with a wide range of performances for all audiences. It reaffirms the festival’s role as a hub for cultural exchange.

On the first day, attendees can enjoy an opening parade featuring large-scale displays and global performers. Open-air circus shows on the Fountain Stage, gift distributions, traditional military band performances, and heritage competitions will also be part of the festivities. Dynamic sports entertainment activities are planned as well.

Visitors can immerse themselves in culture and entertainment with exclusive fireworks and drone shows illuminating the night sky. Live performances at the Emirates Fountain, laser displays, the Al Wathba Floating Market, a flying restaurant, and the Rare Breed Sanctuary are among thousands of new activities awaiting attendees this season.

The UAE Heritage Pavilions will offer insights into authentic traditions and the foundational role played by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in building the nation. Visitors can explore cultural activities like local markets and handicrafts at the Heritage Village. Live heritage performances will immerse guests in rich cultural experiences.

International pavilions will host unique performances showcasing each participating nation’s culture and products. This creates a vibrant atmosphere through diverse heritage displays. Government entities like the National Archives and Library and Department of Culture and Tourism participate to highlight national identity.

Amusement City Attractions

This season introduces new excitement at ‘Amusement City’ with virtual reality games suitable for all ages. A thrilling haunted house experience adds to numerous games and adventures available for visitors. Competitions, prize draws, and valuable awards enhance visitor engagement throughout the festival.

New festivals across various venues include Union Day Celebrations Festival, Children’s Festival, New Year’s Festival, Light Festival, Arts Festival, East Asia Festival, Food Festival, and Ramadan ‘Month of Giving’ Festival. Each offers unique celebratory atmospheres for attendees.

Culinary Delights

This year’s festival features popular international restaurants alongside mobile food trucks serving thousands of dishes daily to suit all tastes. Visitors can explore a world of culinary experiences for the first time at this event.

The Sheikh Zayed Festival welcomes guests daily from 16:00 to midnight during weekdays and until 01:00 on weekends and public holidays. It offers an opportunity to spend quality time outdoors with family and friends through various activities suitable for all ages.

With inputs from WAM