Al Ain Cultural Tourism Reviews Strategic Plans By Hazza Bin Zayed For 2026 Development
H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan reviewed new cultural and tourism plans for Al Ain Region during a high-level meeting, which focused on strategic projects through 2026 and underlined how these initiatives are expected to support sustainable growth, attract visitors from inside and outside the UAE, and improve community wellbeing.
The discussions took place with a delegation led by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, where H.H. Sheikh Hazza received detailed briefings on development plans, investment priorities and upcoming programmes that aim to advance the culture and tourism sectors across Al Ain Region.
During the meeting, H.H. Sheikh Hazza stressed that developing Al Ain Region’s tourism sector represents a key pillar of Abu Dhabi’s wider vision to strengthen its position on the global tourism map, noting that investment in this area is directed toward integrated, sustainable development that supports the local community, raises quality of life and creates new employment opportunities.
DCT Abu Dhabi continues working to reinforce Al Ain Region tourism as a leading cultural tourism destination in line with the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030, focusing on preserving local heritage, protecting environmental assets and expanding leisure and entertainment offerings, while also planning an integrated visitor experience that links cultural sites with modern attractions.
H.H. Sheikh Hazza reviewed updates on existing projects and the pipeline of key programmes scheduled for implementation in 2026, including major cultural initiatives, tourism infrastructure upgrades and visitor services, which are designed to support strategic investment, deliver social and economic benefits and enhance Al Ain Region’s appeal to residents, domestic tourists and international travellers.
The briefing covered plans to rehabilitate Al Ain Museum, improve access and facilities across Al Ain’s historic oases and UNESCO World Heritage sites, and develop family-oriented leisure destinations, including upgrades at Hili Fun City, enhancements at Al Ain Zoo, improvements within Al Jimi Mall and tourism development at Jebel Hafeet.
| Al Ain Region tourism site | Planned focus |
|---|---|
| Al Ain Museum | Rehabilitation and cultural programming |
| Al Ain oases and UNESCO sites | Tourism appeal, access and preservation |
| Hili Fun City, Al Ain Zoo | Family entertainment and visitor services |
| Al Jimi Mall, Jebel Hafeet | Leisure facilities and tourism development |
Al Ain Region tourism festivals and cultural initiatives
DCT Abu Dhabi’s initiatives in Al Ain Region tourism also include a programme of annual cultural events that boost the region’s profile, such as the Traditional Handicrafts Festival, Al Ain Book Festival, Mother of the Nation Festival, Dar Al Zain Festival and Ghaitah Al Ain, which help attract visitors and support heritage preservation.
| Al Ain Region tourism festivals | Key cultural focus |
|---|---|
| Traditional Handicrafts Festival | Local crafts and artisans |
| Al Ain Book Festival | Literature and reading |
| Mother of the Nation Festival | Community and family activities |
| Dar Al Zain Festival | Entertainment and lifestyle |
| Ghaitah Al Ain | Cultural performances and heritage |
The meeting, attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Talal Al Dhiyebi and Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, highlighted joint efforts between government entities and major companies to coordinate Al Ain Region tourism projects, align investments with Abu Dhabi’s strategic goals and ensure benefits reach residents and visitors alike.
With inputs from WAM
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