Mesmerizing fireworks, a stunning drone show, and a wide range of activities focusing on the UAE’s rich history and heritage will be the highlights of the 2023 edition of the Sheikh Zayed Festival, which kicks off at Al Wathba in Abu Dhabi on Friday.
The 114-day festival was held under the patronage of the President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and under the direct supervision of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court. The combination of culture, tradition and entertainment promises to be a crowd pleaser.
Before the inauguration, Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Advisor to the President and Head of the Higher Organizing Committee of the festival, reviewed the preparations and final arrangements. Sheikh Sultan and the high-level delegation expressed satisfaction and appreciated the efforts of the organizers. He highlighted Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed’s keen interest in the festival and its events.
Over the years, the festival named after the founding father of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, has become one of the largest cultural events worldwide. The popular festival has also contributed to promoting Abu Dhabi’s status as an important tourism and cultural destination.
More than 2.5 million viewers and 7 million followers and spectators enjoyed the activities of the last edition, noted Abdullah Mubarak Al Muhairi, a member of the Higher Organizing Committee.
Highlights of the festival
Until March 9, the festival will give residents and tourists an opportunity to experience the rich Emirati heritage, taste the most delicious food and create unforgettable moments of fun and entertainment.
On the opening day of the festival, visitors can enjoy a fireworks display and a drone show. Then there will be fireworks every Saturday at 10 pm.
The festival presents a first-of-its-kind ‘Flora and Fauna Reserve’ with unique and rare animals and birds on display. Audiences can get ready to be scared in the revamped ‘House of Horror’ which promises to be scarier than ever. They can learn more about the richness of Emirati heritage and enjoy arts, crafts and products at the ‘Heritage Village’, which includes an entire complex of four different environments – marine, land, mountain and agriculture. – Ancient Emirati society. Families, especially children, will love to enjoy the thrilling rides and activities at ‘Fun City’. Then there is the ‘Union Parade’, the Biggest Custom Car Show Challenge, the ‘Emirates Fountain’, the ‘Glow Flower Garden’, the ‘Flying Restaurant’, the ‘Children’s Village’, an Agricultural Excellence Award, an Industrial District, various competitions, and draws.
There is an amazing lineup of fantastic live performances, entertaining shows, and more activities and surprises to look forward to on weekends and public holidays.
Special festivals to celebrate National Day with spectacular shows and performances at the Heritage Village and International Pavilions, including folk art shows, military musical performances, fireworks and drone displays and Emirates Fountain activities.
Festival hours are 4pm to midnight and 1am on weekends and public holidays.
