15 Abu Dhabi Festivals That You Must Visit in 2024!
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Abu Dhabi Festivals

Eid ul Adha, Mother of Nation Festival, Abu Dhabi Food Festival, Sheik Zayed Heritage Festival, National Day Festival, Abu Dhabi International Boat Show, Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and many more.

The capital city of UAE is brimming with cultural heritage and amazing traditions for visitors to explore, including the many vibrant annual festivals in Abu Dhabi. The lovely city with its beautiful waterfront boasts a rich cultural mix and proudly displays its grand mosques, luxurious buildings and amazing experiences. The various festivals hosted in Abu Dhabi showcase its rich and dazzling culture, the best of its heritage brought together for the world to see.

Abu Dhabi festivals give a peak into the city's rich cultural legacy, it's appreciation of arts and adventures. As a cultural melting pot and traditional city, Abu Dhabi always has something spectacular going on. Be it the year long Abu Dhabi Festival which hosts various activities throughout the year and different venues in the city or the melodious Abu Dhabi international jazz festival, the city is always welcoming visitors with culture and art. Events like the Sheikh Zayed Heritage festival  give the visitors an awe striking experience and always have something unique in store for them. Attending the festivals in the Emirate is a great way for visitors to explore the cultural mix and also happens to be a must on the list of things to do while in Abu Dhabi.

Here is the list of best abu dhabi Festivals:

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01

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

A thrilling race, the Etihad Airlines Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is one of the most anticipated on the calendar. The extremely difficult track is among the most technologically advanced circuits on the planet, and it brings out the absolute best in the world's greatest drivers. The seating area has been intended to make the audience feel like they are a part of the exciting activity taking place on stage.

Those seeking a dreamlike and high-octane experience can consider VIP Hospitality, which includes seating in selected grandstands, F1 driver meet-and-greets, and other special perks and perks that are not available elsewhere. This annual event in Abu Dhabi is the ultimate yearly meeting for petrol heads from all around the Middle East.

Dates:
17th to 20th November

Location
: Yas Marina Circuit

02

Abu Dhabi Festival

Image Credit : instagram.com

This yearly festival in Abu Dhabi, which began in 2004 and is organized by the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation, is held under the sponsorship of His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan and is held under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The festival emphasizes visual arts, literature, and other forms of expression, and it brings together performers from all over the world. This is a year long festival with a variety of performances and programming scheduled for various days throughout the month. In 2022, the festival programme is a combination of physical and online activities at various venues spread throughout the year. 

Date
: Throughout the year. 

Location
: Different venues across the Emirate. 

03

Mother of Nation Festival

Image Credit : facebook.com/MOTNFestival

This 10-day long festival in memory of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak (wife of the late Sheikh Zayad) for her philanthropic work and efforts towards empowering women is the ideal venue to immerse yourself in the culture of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). There's something for everyone at one of the most exciting festivals in Abu Dhabi, with everything from amazing live music to intriguing food stalls, games for children, and interesting performances.

The outdoor event, which is divided into numerous themed zones, also includes insightful pavilions on topics such as women in the United Arab Emirates and environmental awareness. Do not miss the spectacular fireworks show that will take place at the closing ceremony.

Dates
: 9th to 18th December

Location
: A’l Bahar, Corniche, Abu Dhabi

04

Abu Dhabi Food Festival

The opportunity to see local and worldwide famous chefs at work at one of the most amazing Abu Dhabi festivals celebrating Emirati cuisine is a must-see for food enthusiasts. The event, which is supported by all major hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls, is held over the course of two weeks and three weekends.

It is one of the most popular festivals in Abu Dhabi for food enthusiasts, as it provides tourists with the opportunity to experience some wonderful traditional and international cuisine.The Love Food Festival in Al Ain, which follows a similar format, features a diverse selection of street food trucks, cooking demonstrations and workshops, as well as live music.

Date
: To be announced

Location
: All around the city

05

Abu Dhabi Film Festival

Abu Dhabi Cinema Festival (previously Middle East International Film Festival) was founded in 2007 to promote a dynamic film culture in the Middle East. The event is organized by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH) and is attended by H.E. Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage.

The Festival's commitment to exhibiting works by Arab filmmakers alongside renowned international cinema talent allows Abu Dhabi's diverse and enthusiastic audiences to engage with their own and others' cultures through cinema. While focusing on the bright new voices of Arab cinema, the Festival serves as a platform for the globe to discover and gauge the pulse of modern Arab filmmaking.

Dates
: 23rd October to 1st November

Location
: Emirates Palace

06

Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival

Image Credit : abudhabiculture.ae

In honor of the founding father of the United Arab Emirates, this famous heritage event in Abu Dhabi celebrates the rich cultural diversity and customs of the emirates. Numerous interactive exhibitions, cultural pavilions, traditional cafes serving local and international food as well as hundreds of intriguing stores selling handicrafts and other products are featured during the lively event.

Thousands of locals and visitors descend on Al Wathba, which is around 50 kilometers outside of the city, to take part in the celebrations.

Dates
: To be announced

Location
: Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi

07

Al Dhafra Festival

A 90-minute trip from the city will take you to the Al Dhafra Region desert, where you will be met with an infinite sea of ochre-colored sand. This is one of those unique festivals in Abu Dhabi that provides an opportunity to get a glance into the Bedouin way of life as well as the opportunity to mix with the desert tribes of the region.

A total of 1500 camel owners coming from the Gulf countries take part in the festival, bringing their best stock to sell, while women sell traditional handicrafts from the area. The camel beauty pageant and falconry competitions are the attractions of the festival. From the city centre to the venue, complimentary coaches are available.

Dates
: 12th to 22nd January

Location
: Madinat Zayad, Al Dhafra Region, Abu Dhabi

08

Abu Dhabi Shopping Festival

Held by the Department of Culture and Tourism, The Abu Dhabi Shopping Festival in Abu Dhabi is a part of an effort to increase tourism in the region. Shopping malls all throughout the city are offering discounts of up to 75% off during this shopping frenzy, which is part of their spring sales.

Over 300 shopping malls will take part in the shopping event, which attracts visitors from around the world. Many people plan their trips to Abu Dhabi to coincide with this event. One of the most awaited Abu Dhabi Festivals, this is a heaven for fashion and make-up enthusiasts.

Dates
: December 15, 2022, to January 29, 2023

Location
: Various Malls including the Abu Dhabi Mall, Bawadi Mall, Dalma Mall, Yas Mall, Madinat Zayed Mall, Barari Mall, and Raha Mall.

09

Abu Dhabi International Dance Festival

The Abu Dhabi International Dance Festival has become one of the most anticipated annual festivals in Abu Dhabi. The phrase "dance till you drop" rings true during this 3-day spectacle. Some of the world's most famous dancers perform shows and workshops for visitors. The festival's goal is to exhibit and highlight some of the best performers and instructors in a variety of dance styles.

Dancing teachers will be on hand to teach participants some essential dance skills in addition to artists showing their remarkable talent. The Abu Dhabi International Dance Festival has attracted tourists from all around the world since its inception. The event offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to participate with and learn about a distinct world of dancing.

Dates
: To be announced

10

Abu Dhabi Science Festival

A ten-day exhibition of scientific and practical principles, the Abu Dhabi Science Festival attracts approximately 12000 attendees, including 27000 academics, during the course of the event.

The Abu Dhabi Science Festival, now in its ninth year, aims to inspire students and technology enthusiasts to pursue careers in innovation and technology. For this scientific festival in Abu Dhabi, there are over 95 activities spanning across a variety of workshops and interactive exhibitions for both children and adults to participate in.

Dates
: Held in month of February

Location
: Khalifa Park

11

Abu Dhabi International Jazz Festival

The Abu Dhabi International Jazz Festival, which began as a two-day event but has grown to encompass a full week, is now one of the annual festivals in Abu Dhabi. The Jazz Festival in Abu Dhabi features performances by famous jazz performers, Latin musicians, and dancers, resulting in a large number of jazz music fans from all over the world attending the festival.

Celebrating jazz music and it's cultural heritage, this is one of the most melodious of Abu Dhabi festivals to attend while visiting the Emirate.

Date
: Between April and May

Location
: Beach Rotana Hotel and Towers Abu Dhabi

12

National Day Festival

The National Day of the United Arab Emirates is celebrated on the 1st and 2nd of December, and is a two-day event commemorating the foundation of the country. Fireworks, vehicle rallies, music and art performances, air show competitions, sailing regattas, and live concerts are just a few of the free activities that take place throughout the country during this nationwide festival. Background information:

On this day in 1971, the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates joined together to become the United Arab Emirates. This day also coincides with the day in 1968 when the United Arab Emirates stood out for nationalization in opposition to the British Protectorate Treaties.

Dates
: 1st and 2nd of December

Location:
Various Venues Celebrate the event. 

13

Abu Dhabi Golf Festival

Image Credit : facebook.com/abudhabigolfclub

With the Abu Dhabi Golf Festival, one of the two major festivals and events in Abu Dhabi that are widely anticipated by golfing lovers and pros alike, golfers will have the opportunities to participate at some of the most magnificent golf courses in the world.

The groomed greens of the 27-hole Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Yas Links Golf Club, and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, have helped to establish Abu Dhabi as a world-class golfing destination. These popular golfing grounds invite you to start off another unique golfing season and take advantage of the abundant sunshine throughout the winter months.

Dates:
January, 2022

Location
: Across three premier golf courses

14

Eid ul Fitr/Eid ul Adha

The primary festival of the city, Eid ul Fitr, is a three-day celebration that takes place after a difficult month of fasting. Throughout the city, families get together for dinners and gift exchanges, and there is a strong sense of joy and celebrations in the air.

In a similar manner, Eid ul Adha is celebrated at the conclusion of Hajj and is largely recognised for the variety of non-vegetarian meals that are served during the festival.

Date
: Will begin around 2nd May/3rd May

Location
: Various locations across the city.

15

Abu Dhabi International Boat Show

The Abu Dhabi International Boat Show is among the most anticipated yearly festivals in Abu Dhabi for maritime technology aficionados. It's a stage for international companies to show off their newest products and services to a captive audience. Visitors will be able to see some of the world's largest boats as prominent international manufacturers display their latest models.

Some vessels provide a "test before you buy" option. The most up-to-date recreational marine products, such as fishing equipment, are also for sale. Water sports, both motorized and non-motorized, are available to the adventurous. To top it off, at the end of the day, you may enjoy a wonderful dining experience.

Dates
: 24th to 27th October 2022

Location
: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre

People Also Ask About Abu Dhabi

  1. Which are the best festivals in Abu Dhabi held every year?

    1. Abu Dhabi Food Festival: It is one of the most popular food events in Abu Dhabi, offering guests the opportunity to experience wonderful traditional and international cuisine. At this fantastic festival honoring Emirati cuisine, foodies will have the opportunity to see local and worldwide famous chefs in work. This delectable Abu Dhabi festival takes place over two weeks and three weekends.

    2. Abu Dhabi Film Festival
    : This event is normally held over 10 days and features eight categories of films from both the Arab world and the international community. Aside from screenings and red carpet festivities, the Black Pearl Awards and Film Competition programmes are also held at this prestigious film festival in Abu Dhabi.

    3. The Ideas Abu Dhabi Festival
    : The Ideas Abu Dhabi Festival is a brainstorming event with Innovative ideas and opportunities on the table. It is part festival, part conference. This initiation emphasizes confronting global concerns and uncovering the world's brightest ideas. It is a public and VIP forum with inspiring presentations by notable specialists in diverse disciplines of arts, technology, science, and more.

    4. Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
    : This book fair, which takes place over the course of a week, is one of the best-organized events in the Middle east. The fair is one of the two major festivals in Abu Dhabi that bibliophiles and book publishers look forward to. Daily book signings, as well as author engagement sessions and engaging activities for youngsters, are available to literature and culture enthusiasts.

  2. What are the fun things to do in Abu Dhabi?

    1. Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi to see cultures come together: Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a sister institution to the world-renowned Louvre in Paris, to witness cultures collide. The Louvre Abu Dhabi aims to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western art by showcasing works from all over the world. In addition to housing the largest collection of works on the Arabian peninsula, the museum has galleries covering 8,000 square feet, making it the largest museum on that continent.

    2. Ride the world's fastest roller coaster
    : In addition to strutting around in its luxury automobiles, Ferrari World is also one of the world's largest indoor theme parks, boasting a diverse range of rides and attractions for visitors of all ages spread across a whopping 925,000 square feet! Take a ride on the Formula Rossa, the world's fastest roller coaster, which reaches speeds of just under 150 miles per hour!

    3. Make a splash at Yas Waterworld
    : Spanning 37 acres of wet and wild terrain, Yas Waterworld is the premier water park adventure destination in the UAE. With more than 40 rides, slides, and experiences, visitors can enjoy a refreshing day in the sun that is suitable for both children and adults alike.

  3. What is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi?

    The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is during the winters between December through March. During the winters the weather isn't too dry or humid, and tourists can enjoy the beautiful Emirate without the scorching heat. The spring and fall seasons too offer a pleasant climate, manageable tourists, and very amazing deals on hotel rates.
  4. What is Abu Dhabi famous for?

    Abu Dhabi is famous for being a home to some of the most spectacular tourist attractions in the country, making it a more appealing destination for visitors to the United Arab Emirates. Visitors would be more in touch with local culture in Abu Dhabi because of its many festivals and events. Many of its tourist attractions ensure visitors will be spending more time in the company of locals. This is the best place to see Emirati culture and traditions.
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