Sheikh Zayed Festival 2024-2025 Kicks off

Under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and supported by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Sheikh Zayed Festival 2024-2025 began on Friday, promising an extended season of cultural celebrations until 28th February 2025.

The festival’s opening attracted large crowds, with fireworks, drone displays, and vibrant lights creating a lively atmosphere.

انطلق مهرجان الشيخ زايد بأجواء مليئة بالفرح. حيث تجتمع الثقافة، الفنون، والتراث والمتعة في تجربة لا تُنسى لجميع أفراد العائلة. استعدوا لمزيد من الفعاليات والمفاجآت في الأيام القادمة.

The Sheikh Zayed Festival kicked off with an atmosphere full of joy, where culture, arts,… pic.twitter.com/lUzpdJaWL9

— Sheikh Zayed Festival مهرجان الشيخ زايد (@ZayedFestival) November 2, 2024

Visitors enjoyed traditional performances, gifts, and a captivating opening parade with global flair. The Emirates Fountain took centre stage, offering a visually stunning show of music, lights, and water.

New attractions, such as the Al Wathba Floating Market, helicopter rides, a musical fountain, and the Rare Breeds Sanctuary, drew significant interest, providing visitors with unique experiences.

The Heritage Village was a popular highlight, featuring insights into the UAE’s traditional life across its mountainous, agricultural, marine, and desert environments. Visitors admired traditional markets and crafts, including Al-Sadu weaving and Al-Talli making, celebrating UAE heritage and skills.

Government and international pavilions also contributed to the festival’s global atmosphere. Educational workshops, cultural shows, and the Americas Pavilion—participating for the first time—showcased a diverse range of art, heritage, and cuisine from around the world.

The amusement park and children’s area were bustling with families enjoying games, workshops, and animated shows. Children’s theater performances, science shows, and contests offered educational fun, while the food zone served a variety of local and international dishes, catering to all tastes.

The festival is open daily from 16:00 to midnight on weekdays and until 01:00 on weekends and holidays.