Sheikh Zayed Festival Returns Next Week: Everything You Need to Know

The much-anticipated Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi is making its return on November 1, promising a fresh and exciting experience this year. With over 27 participating countries, 30,000 exhibitors, and more than 6,000 international cultural events planned over four months, the festival is a must-visit destination as the winter season approaches.

This year’s edition, themed ‘Hayakum’ (Arabic for ‘Welcome’), introduces weekly festivals, a new layout, and a variety of new events and activities. Here’s a rundown of what to expect:

What is the Sheikh Zayed Festival?

The Sheikh Zayed Festival, named in honor of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, offers visitors an opportunity to explore the legacy of the UAE while experiencing a diverse array of global cultures. This year’s edition will feature significant celebrations for Union Day and New Year’s, along with new country pavilions, concerts, events, and competitions to elevate the overall experience.

Must-See Highlights

1. Heritage Village
   Located centrally, Heritage Village will showcase cultural activities such as traditional markets, handicrafts, and live heritage performances. Visitors can also enjoy a culinary journey into the UAE’s past at the Emirati Tent Restaurant (Al Kheimah).
2. Country Pavilions
   Explore the pavilions of various countries, each featuring unique activities and shows that highlight the distinctive customs, cultures, and traditions of the participating nations.
3. Theme Park
   This season’s Theme Park boasts new rides enhanced with virtual reality technology, a thrilling Haunted House, and a variety of games suitable for all ages.
4. World-Record Fireworks
   For the first time, a special festival spanning two weeks will feature events such as spectacular Guinness World Record-breaking fireworks displays, accompanied by drone and laser shows.
5. Musical Fountain
   Enjoy mesmerizing water shows at the festival’s new Musical Fountain, where performances are synchronized with the movement of water and music.
6. Floating Market
   The Al Wathba Floating Market, known as Siam Paradise, will offer Asian-themed activities like umbrella painting, Thai flower making, and a wide selection of restaurants.
7. Helicopter Experience
   Experience a thrilling 5D virtual reality helicopter ride, giving you the sensation of flying over various landscapes.
8. Honey and Date Festival
   Support local honey production by sampling some of the rarest types of honey, and explore the best local dates at the festival’s Date Festival.
9. Skills Programme
   The Skills Programme, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Centre for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, will showcase the talents of students in technical fields. Competitions will be held, adhering to international standards, to encourage the participation of UAE talent in global skills contests.
10. Car Show
    The Al Wathba Custom Show will feature workshops, competitions, and modified vehicles. Visitors can learn the best methods for rebuilding classic cars and off-road vehicles.
11. Al Wathba Nights Concerts
    Attend the Al Wathba Nights concerts, which will feature performances from top Arab artists, covering a range of genres from traditional to modern songs.

Seven Weekly Festivals

For the first time, weekly festivals will be introduced, including:

• National Day Celebrations Festival
• Children’s and Cartoon Characters Festival
• New Year’s Celebrations Festival
• Arts, Flowers, and Plants Festival
• East Asia Festival
• Food and Desserts Festival
• Ramadan Festival

Additional Events and Competitions

Many annual events will continue at the festival, such as:

• Racing Festival
• Dhow Sailing Race
• Falconry Competition
• Camel Racing Grand Prize
• Traditional Cooking Competition

Getting There

The Sheikh Zayed Festival is held in the Al Wathba region of Abu Dhabi. To get there, take Sheikh Zayed Road E11, exit at Al Ain Road/E22, merge onto Al Wathba Road, and follow Lane 2121. At the roundabout, take a left towards Lane 2124, leading directly to the festival entrance.

Festival Dates

The 2024-2025 edition of the Sheikh Zayed Festival will run from November 1, 2024, to February 29, 2025.