Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025–2026 Launches Tomorrow In Abu Dhabi With Cultural Events

The Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025–2026, under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and supervised by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, will occur in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi. Scheduled from November 1, 2025, to March 22, 2026, the festival embraces the theme "Hayyakum" (Welcome) with a renewed vision to affirm its status as a global cultural and heritage event.

This edition of the festival will feature over 4,000 cultural events and 750 large-scale public shows. More than 20,000 participants from within the UAE and abroad will contribute to this vibrant celebration. Twenty-two countries will showcase their cultural and heritage exhibitions through national pavilions, promoting intercultural dialogue.

The festival highlights Emirati social values and reflects a message of tolerance and coexistence. It embodies cultural diversity by bringing together over 200 nationalities. The Union Parade celebrates unity among Emiratis, honouring values established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Visitors can enjoy national performances during the 54th UAE Union Day celebrations. These include artistic displays, roaming shows, raffles with prizes, fireworks, laser displays, drone shows, and musical concerts. The Heritage Village remains a key attraction for exploring traditional Emirati life through pavilions and live folk performances.

The festival hosts traditional competitions such as Dhow Sailing Races and Falconry Competitions. Other events include the Zayed Grand Camel Race and the Emirati Traditional Cuisine Contest. The Ramadan Sports Tournament is held in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council.

The Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award pavilion showcases efforts in supporting agriculture. It promotes sustainability and innovation in farming practices. Winning projects from various award categories are displayed alongside community-based food security initiatives.

Entertainment Highlights

This year introduces expanded entertainment areas like Al Wathba Boulevard with local and international dining options. Visitors can enjoy Middle Eastern, Asian, European, Indian cuisines, healthy choices, and plant-based dishes. The Emirati Traditional Food Corner offers authentic local dishes with live cooking performances.

New attractions include the Rare Animals Reserve promoting environmental awareness and Family Entertainment City offering activities for all ages. The Al Wathba Custom Show returns for car enthusiasts with modified and classic cars on display.

Community Engagement

Several organisations participate through dedicated pavilions including Memory of the Nation and Abu Dhabi Majalis. Others like Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation for Humanitarian Works reaffirm commitments to sustainability and social responsibility.

The festival's international pavilions represent various cultures through global markets showcasing products that highlight UAE’s openness as a hub for cultural exchange. The "Skills" Programme supports Emirati talent in technical fields in collaboration with ACTVET and Abu Dhabi Media Network.

Special Events

A special New Year’s Eve program includes fireworks involving over 6,000 drones along with children’s activities and musical performances. The Emirates Fountain captivates audiences with synchronized water shows set to international music.

The Liwa Nights concert series features leading Arab and international artists weekly with fireworks every Saturday at 10 p.m., enhancing the festive atmosphere.

The Sheikh Zayed Festival welcomes visitors daily from 4:00 p.m. to midnight on weekdays; weekends extend until 1:00 a.m., offering an enriching experience for all attendees.

With inputs from WAM