Abu Dhabi: The Sheikh Zayed Festival 2024-2025 kicked off in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, on November 1, 2024, attracting a massive turnout. The festival promises a vibrant celebration of Emirati culture, featuring exceptional performances and a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the season.
The Sheikh Zayed Festival 2024-2025 has officially launched under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with the support of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.
The event is supervised by Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Adviser to the UAE President and Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee, ensuring a celebration that honors Emirati heritage while offering a diverse array of performances and activities for attendees to enjoy.
The event welcomed large crowds from various backgrounds, celebrating with fireworks, drone displays, and dazzling lights in a festive atmosphere filled with surprises.
Strong Turnout
In the opening hours of the festival, citizens, residents, and tourists gathered to enjoy events including gift distributions, traditional performances like Al-Ayyala and Al-Razfa, and a concert by the Abu Dhabi Police string orchestra. The opening parade featured global performances, while circus acts and roaming entertainers created a lively atmosphere.
انطلق مهرجان الشيخ زايد بأجواء مليئة بالفرح. حيث تجتمع الثقافة، الفنون، والتراث والمتعة في تجربة لا تُنسى لجميع أفراد العائلة. استعدوا لمزيد من الفعاليات والمفاجآت في الأيام القادمة.
The Sheikh Zayed Festival kicked off with an atmosphere full of joy, where culture, arts,… pic.twitter.com/lUzpdJaWL9
— Sheikh Zayed Festival مهرجان الشيخ زايد (@ZayedFestival) November 2, 2024
Fireworks and Drone Displays
To celebrate the new season, stunning fireworks and drone displays lit up the sky, complemented by the Emirates Fountain‘s musical and light performances. New attractions like the Al Wathba Floating Market helicopter rides and the Rare Breeds Sanctuary provided unique experiences for attendees.
Heritage Village
Many visited the Heritage Village, showcasing the UAE’s customs and values through traditional markets and crafts, including Al-Sadu weaving, Al-Braq embroidery, Al-Sarod weaving, and Al-Talli making.
Government Pavilions
Government pavilions offered educational workshops and cultural shows, while international pavilions featured various arts and cuisines. The Americas Pavilion, participating for the first time, captivated visitors with activities and traditional dishes.
Family Fun
The amusement park attracted families with exciting games and adventures, while the children’s area offered shows, workshops, and entertaining clown who brought smiles and joy to attendees.
Moreover, there were interactive activities, contests, prizes, and gifts designed to enhance children’s skills in an enjoyable environment. The food zone was bustling with families enjoying a variety of local and international dishes.
The Sheikh Zayed Festival runs daily from 4 PM to midnight on weekdays and until 1 AM on weekends and holidays, providing ample time for visitors to engage in activities suitable for all ages.