Looking for something cool and cultural to do this month?
The Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival celebrates the culture of the UAE, showcasing the rich diversity of its traditions and the legacy of the nation’s founder. There you’ll be able to experience Emirati heritage and culture through arts, crafts, food and customs, plus, loads of other fun things to do.
The festival will run from Thursday November 18 to April 1, 2022 at Al Wathbah, a suburban neighbourhood of Abu Dhabi near Bani Yas.
A central feature of the festival is the UAE Heritage District, which hosts exhibitions, events and popular markets reflecting traditional Emirati life. The World Heritage district reflects the architectural heritage, crafts, products and traditional arts of other countries. The festival also features camel races, falconry shows, a variety of competitions and fireworks.
You can expect over 4,500 international cultural events, more than 650 performances and over 130 workshops for kids.
Need more convincing to take the trip to Al Wathbah?
Here are 10 things to do at the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival.
Take in the UAE’s history through a unique art gallery
The Year of the 50th Zone at the Sheikh Zayed Festival houses an art gallery that showcases the journey of the UAE over the past 50 years.
See a camel parade
The Emirati Civilisation and Culture Zone will include a gallery of the Best Presidential Camels that have won the most prestigious races over the years.
Watch a water show
The festival will present the Emirates Fountain to its visitors, with an internationally themed water shows, daily laser displays and 3D holograms, all set to popular music.
Play family-friendly sports
The Al Forsan International Sports Resort is joining the festival with a variety of exciting sports-related activities for the whole family. Try go-karting, axe throwing, archery, driving and flight simulations, bungee jumping and trampoline, zip lines, remote-controlled cars and more.
Take the kids to a children’s circus
The Sheikh Zayed Cultural Festival will have a dedicated educational and entertainment district that welcomes children for performances and engaging activities. There’s a children’s circus, laser and lights shows, storyteller shows, a children’s magician, karaoke parties, princess and superhero shows, balloon modelling, face painting and other events. There’s also a Crazy Car area with child-safe mini go-karts.
Have a scream on the rollercoaster
A huge amusement park, Funfair City, will cater to visitors of all ages, featuring a great variety of rides, including a rollercoaster.
Rebuild classic cars
The festival features an opportunity to learn about the best ways to rebuild and renovate classic cars and modify vehicle engines. Vroom vroom.
Say hello to Arabian horses
For those interested in equestrian and camel sports, there will be special presentations showcasing the beauty and grace of purebred Arabian horses.
Eat, eat, and EAT.
Food lovers can enjoy a wide range of cuisines and dishes from over 50 restaurants and food trucks serving snacks from around the world.
Find your zen in the Miracle Garden
Walk through a gorgeous garden space at the Miracle Garden, which allows families and visitors to take a walk amongst an impressive collection of famous buildings and illusion structures all covered in thousands of different flowers.
Nov 18 to Apr 1, 2022, open daily 4pm-midnight. Al Wathbah South (800 555).
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