Al Hosn Festival Returns For Its Ninth Edition To Celebrate Emirati Cultural Heritage In Abu Dhabi

The Al Hosn Festival has returned to Abu Dhabi for its ninth edition, running from 25th January to 9th February. Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), this annual event celebrates the region's cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy a diverse programme featuring crafts, arts, and performances suitable for all ages at the historic Al Hosn site.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, stated, "Returning for its ninth year, Al Hosn Festival will once again showcase the best of Emirati cultural heritage to the Abu Dhabi community and visitors from around the world. This event furthers our mission to preserve and promote our rich history and traditions, fostering pride in our national identity and sharing the essence and spirit of our nation with the world."

The festival's theme, ‘A Living Expression of Abu Dhabi’s Culture,’ highlights artisan handicrafts demonstrations and live music by Emirati performers. Attendees can engage in immersive heritage activities, culinary experiences, and educational workshops. The event offers a chance to explore Qasr Al Hosn’s exhibits that narrate Abu Dhabi's history while participating in House of Artisans workshops and Cultural Foundation programmes.

This year's Makers Space returns under the theme ‘Al Badiya Living,’ exploring three environments through craft makers' perspectives. Al Barr represents the desert, Al Waha signifies the oasis, and Al Megyal symbolises resting places during travels. These areas reflect how past generations lived harmoniously with their surroundings using creativity and skilled practices.

Visitors can learn skills like camping and adventure navigation through workshops that echo historical life in harmony with nature. Activities include shelter building, fire starting, and medicinal plant use. The oasis zone near falaj and palm trees will feature makers specialising in Khoos products and pottery with demonstrations and hands-on workshops available.

The Gahwa Championships return to award excellence in traditional Arabic coffee preparation. Additionally, House of Artisans presents "Al Teeb," celebrating traditional Emirati perfumery's historical significance. Through regional and international research, it delves into perfumery's cultural importance in the UAE, offering insights into ingredients used over time.

Cultural Performances

"Sanad Al Sanaa" is a play highlighting Emirati values such as hospitality and cooperation through a young boy named Sanad. His generosity helps him overcome life's challenges while strengthening community bonds. Families will appreciate this story emphasising kinship, moral values, and mutual support.

The festival’s main show features shadow-play projections alongside grand poetry recitals partnered with Abu Dhabi Heritage Police. Traditional Al Tcholeeb performances include knights on horseback chanting poetry rhythmically with their horses’ hooves as they celebrate returning to Qasr Al Hosn.

Economic Impact

The festival supports Abu Dhabi’s Cultural Strategy by enhancing its cultural presence while driving economic growth through creative enterprises. It provides a platform for creatives to engage with businesses while gathering consumer insights for collaboration opportunities.

This highly anticipated annual event attracts tourists eager to experience unique cultural offerings within Abu Dhabi’s community from 4 pm to 11 pm daily until 9th February 2025.

With inputs from WAM