Start your weekend with a visit to the annual Sheikh Zayed Festival, a 112-day-long celebration of the UAE’s heritage and roots. The event, running from November 17 to March 9, 2024, will kick off with fireworks and drone displays on the opening day, Friday, November 17.
Under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the oversight of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the 2023 edition of the festival promises a rich program of cultural, heritage, and entertainment activities.
To distinguish this edition, the organizing committee has crafted a program with unique and diverse activations and adventures, aiming to elevate the festival’s standing locally and globally.
Key activities this year include the “Union Parade,” reflecting the UAE people’s sense of belonging and loyalty to the leadership, emphasizing national unity. The National Day Celebrations will extend across the festival site, featuring official and popular festivities marking the UAE National Day, including shows, performances, folk art displays, military musical performances, spectacular firework and drone displays, and activities at the Emirates Fountain.
The festival boasts an integrated Heritage Village, showcasing traditional industries, crafts, and family-friendly, entertaining, and educational environments through recreational, social, and cultural activities.
Highlights also include 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, competitions, draws, and various surprises and activations.
Fireworks will be a regular feature every Saturday during the event, from 4 pm to midnight, and until 1 am on weekends and public holidays.
Image Credit: Anas Thacharpadikkal/Gulf News