The UAE has officially announced the date for the Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025–2026. However, it will take place in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, from November 1, 2025, to March 22, 2026, under the welcoming theme “Hayyakum” (Welcome).
Moreover, the iconic festival stands as one of the leading cultural and heritage celebrations in the world. Hence, it honours the legacy of the country’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
This year’s event is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and supervised by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister. Plus, it promises a big, enhanced experience rooted in heritage, unity, and global exchange.
A Mega Cultural Gathering
The 2025-2026 season will feature the following record-breaking lineup:
- 4,000+ cultural and heritage events
- 750 large-scale shows
- 20,000+ participants and performers
- 22 international pavilions
- Daily timings: 4 PM – 12 midnight. Plus, it can be extended to 1 AM on weekends & public holidays
International cultural engagement is a strong pillar. Plus, the national pavilion will showcase crafts, performances, cuisines, and traditions from participating countries. Hence, it reinforces the global identity of the UAE and its message of tolerance and coexistence.
Sheikh Zayed Festival: Celebrating UAE Identity & Heritage
The festival is going to feature authentic Emirati cultures through the following attractions:
- Union Parade
- 54th UAE Union Day celebrations
- Heritage Village with live folklore shows & traditional markets
- Emirati Traditional Cuisine Contest
- Dhow sailing races, camel racing, and falconry competitions
The Heritage Village continues to be a visitor favourite, as it will grant a nostalgic glimpse into Emirati life through souqs, handicraft workshops, and desert-life exhibits.
New Zones & Enhanced Entertainment
As a visitor to this festival, you can access a variety of new attractions with beloved festival favourites. Below is the list of those events that you will enjoy at this festival:
New attractions:
- Rare Animals Reserve
- Al Wathba Winterland Amusement Park
- Ice-skating rink & bowling hall
- Family Entertainment City
- Expanded Animal Wonders Zone
Returning Attractions:
- UAE Fountain with synchronised light, laser & water shows
- Al Wathba Custom Show for classic & modified car fans
Food Destinations:
- Al Wathba Boulevard and Courtyard Al Wathba featuring local & international cuisines
- Emirati Traditional Food Corner — live cooking & heritage flavors
- Worldwide cuisines: Middle Eastern, Asian, Indian, European & healthy/vegan options
Concerts, Fireworks & Major Celebrations
Here you can also witness the following perks on weekends and special occasions:
- Liwa Nights / Al Wathba Nights concert series with Arab & global artists every weekend
- Fireworks every Saturday at 10 PM
- New Year’s Eve drone show with 6,000+ drones
- Ramadan cultural events & Eid performances
- Children’s carnival & workshops
Sustainability & Innovation Focus
The Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award Pavilion will display the following attractions:
- Innovative farming technology
- Sustainable livestock practices
- Food security initiatives
In addition, the Skills Program, in partnership with ACTVET & Abu Dhabi Media Network, is going to grow the Emirati youth talent in creative and technical fields.
A Festival for Families, Tourists & Culture Lovers
The Sheikh Zayed Festival continues to strengthen its position as a leading global platform for cultural exchange and heritage celebration. This is because it has world-class facilities, immersive cultural exhibits, family-friendly attractions, and spectacular entertainment.
The event aims to bring communities throughout the world together. In addition, it reflects the enduring commitment of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to unity, diversity, hospitality, and global harmony. Therefore, it honours the vision and legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The event is going to start from today, i.e, the 1st of November 2025. However. Daily timings is 4 PM – 12 midnight, which will be extended to 1 AM on weekends & public holidays
Read more:
Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts Opens as Sheikh Mansour Ushers in New Era of Cultural Excellence
[…] […]
[…] […]