What to expect and see at this years Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi.
Sheikh Zayed Festival is one of the largest cultural festivals in the UAE celebrating the rich diversity of its traditions. The festival welcomes more than a million visitors from multiple nationalities in a distinguished family atmosphere, and it includes major events and exhibitions suitable for all ages.
The Festival reflects the aspirations of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan to preserve the heritage of the UAE in particular and the universal heritage of world civilizations as a whole.
The festival takes the visitors on an unforgettable tour of the world’s cultural wonders in one destination, with internationally-themed activities to thrill family members of all ages.
Grand pavilions and exhibitions offering live displays of Emirati traditions and landmarks, taking visitors on a voyage back in time to the history of the UAE.
Spectacular fireworks display, and the dazzling Emirates Fountain & Laser show which uses advanced features to create eye-catching rhythmical patterns.
Special recreational activities dedicated for children, encouraging young adventurers to nurture their skills, discover their passions and explore their talents.
An appetising selection of the very best local and international restaurants and food trucks, serving exotic multicultural cuisine to satisfy all tastes.
Family-friendly services including a nursery, baby strollers and clinic to ensure the full comfort, safety and enjoyment of all visitors throughout their festival experience.
Activities
The UAE Fountain Show in the anchor event happening ever 30 minutes offering a dazzling visual of lights, laser, fire and music creating an unforgettable experience.
A spectacular firework show happens at 9.00 PM every Friday that is not to be missed along with Arabian Horse show, Camel Push Challenge and the traditional Military Marching Band.
For the kids and adventure lovers there is Laser Tag, Fun Fair City, Kids Nation and the Al Wathba Custom show to choose form.
Performances
Pavilions of the different countries are grouped around stages where traditional dance performances take place highlighting the culture of the countries in that area.
Emirati Culture
A complex of traditional Bedouin style dwelling feature traditional crafts like boat building, knitting of fishing nets, traditional arts and much more in an interactive manner.
Shopping
There is no shortage of stalls form around the world selling traditional handicrafts, local delicacies, from colorful carpets form Iran to the finest honey from Yemen you can get it all here.
Dining
This year the dining options have grown, form kiosks selling local delicacies, baked potatoes, Karak Chai to little restaurants offering seafood, burgers, Thai cuisine, local and Indian delights along with pizzas, burgers and more with neatly spaced seating.
How to get there
The Department of Municipalities and Transport, Abu Dhabi has announced new bus service that will run daily from Abu Dhabi Bus Station to the site making it convenient for everyone to visit.
Timings
The festival runs form 20 Nov to 20 Feb form 10.00 AM to 11.00 Pm daily. Tickets are AED 5.00 per person, kids go free.
Contact
Phone – 800 555 / www.zayedfestival.com