Get ready for the grand return of the Sheikh Zayed Festival, set to captivate audiences for another four-month stint in the picturesque Al Wathba region. Just a short 50-minute drive from Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, the annual extravaganza kicks off on November 17 and promises a spectacle until March 9.

This year’s agenda is brimming with diverse events, programs, and activations carefully curated to deepen the connection between current generations and the rich tapestry of the country’s history. A notable addition to the festival is the Union Parade, designed to mirror the Emirati spirit of belonging, loyalty to leadership, and the unity that binds the nation together.

National Day celebrations will take center stage, featuring captivating shows and performances at the Heritage Village, alongside international pavilions showcasing folk art, military musical performances, and breathtaking displays of fireworks and drones. The festival will also host an agricultural excellence award, a rare species reserve, Al Wathba Custom Show, Children’s City, Fun Fair City, Glow Flower Garden, House of Fear, an art district, and various engaging competitions and draws.

Set against the backdrop of a venue resembling a fort, the Sheikh Zayed Festival has been a platform for international cultural pavilions, eclectic music performances, and thrilling amusement park rides in the past. While details for this year’s program are yet to be unveiled, anticipation is running high for another immersive experience.

Named in honor of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the event serves as a living testament to the nation’s rich diversity. It aims to educate visitors about the profound legacy of Sheikh Zayed and offers insights into the UAE’s arts, crafts, customs, and delectable cuisine. The Sheikh Zayed Festival is not just an event; it’s a celebration of the nation’s identity and a tribute to its visionary leader.