Sheikh Zayed Festival Kicks Off Tomorrow Under 'Welcome' Slogan with Presidential Patronage

The Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025-2026 opens tomorrow in Abu Dhabi's Al Wathba area, running until March 22, 2026. This massive cultural celebration features over 4,000 events, participation from 22 countries, and more than 20,000 exhibitors, making it one of the UAE's largest heritage and cultural festivals.

The festival operates under the patronage of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and supervision of Deputy President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This year's theme "Hayakum" (Welcome) reflects the UAE's message of tolerance and coexistence among its diverse population of over 200 nationalities.

**National celebrations take center stage**

The festival will host the UAE's 54th Union Day celebrations, featuring the "March of Unity" parade that celebrates national solidarity. Visitors can expect fireworks displays, laser shows, drone performances, and artistic evenings throughout the event.

The heritage village serves as a main attraction, showcasing traditional Emirati lifestyle through authentic markets, folk performances, and cultural exhibits. Here, visitors experience how Emiratis lived before the country's rapid modernization.

**Traditional competitions and modern entertainment**

Several heritage competitions will take place, including dhow sailing races, falcon hunting contests, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Prize for Camels, and traditional cooking competitions. The festival also includes a Ramadan sports championship in partnership with Abu Dhabi Sports Council.

New entertainment zones expand the visitor experience. Al Wathba Boulevard houses local and international restaurants and cafes. The Emirati food corner offers traditional dishes with live cooking demonstrations. Winterland amusement park provides family-friendly activities, while the Al Wathba Custom Show caters to car enthusiasts with modified and classic vehicle displays.

**International participation grows**

Twenty-two countries will showcase their cultures through dedicated pavilions, displaying traditional crafts and products. This creates opportunities for cultural exchange and demonstrates the UAE's role as a global meeting point.

The "Al Wathba Nights" concert series brings Arab and international artists to the main stage for weekly performances. Fireworks shows happen every Saturday at 10 PM, adding spectacle to the evening entertainment.

**Agricultural innovation gets spotlight**

The Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award participates with a special pavilion highlighting sustainable farming practices and agricultural innovation. Winners from various categories will be honored during the festival, recognizing their contributions to food security and responsible production.

**Community engagement and skills development**

National institutions participate through dedicated pavilions, including "Memory of the Nation," Abu Dhabi Councils, and the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation for Humanitarian Works. The "Skills" program, developed with Abu Dhabi Media Network and Abu Dhabi Centre for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, supports national talents in technical and professional fields.

The festival operates daily from 4 PM to midnight, extending to 1 AM on weekends and holidays. The UAE Fountain continues its water, light, and laser shows set to international music, now expanded in design and coverage area.

For New Year's celebrations, the festival plans special programs featuring fireworks, laser shows, and performances by over 6,000 drones, along with children's activities and diverse musical performances.