The much-anticipated Sheikh Zayed Festival has returned to Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, for its 2025–2026 edition, proudly embracing the theme “Hayyakum” (“Welcome”). This year’s festival underscores the UAE’s ongoing commitment to showcasing its rich cultural heritage alongside its global outlook. Running through the winter season, the event offers a diverse array of cultural, heritage, entertainment, and family-friendly activities designed for visitors of all ages.
Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025-2026 Dates and Al Wathba Venue
Set against the cultural and heritage backdrop of Al Wathba in Abu Dhabi, the festival will span from November 1, 2025, to March 22, 2026. This location forms an integral part of the capital’s broader cultural infrastructure, well-equipped to host large-scale celebrations.
Festival Scope: 4000+ Events and 22 Participating Countries
Organizers have emphasized the extraordinary scale of this year’s event, featuring over 4,000 diverse events and 750 large-scale public shows. The festival draws participation from 22 countries via nationally themed pavilions, with more than 20,000 contributors from both the UAE and abroad expected to take part.
Key Attractions at Sheikh Zayed Festival: Heritage Village and Drone Shows
Heritage & Tradition: Visitors can immerse themselves in Emirati customs and lifestyle at the dedicated Heritage Village, which highlights traditional markets, handicrafts, and folkloric performances.
Global Cultural Pavilions: International pavilions provide a unique platform for participating nations to celebrate their culture, art, cuisine, and heritage, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a vibrant cultural crossroads.
Entertainment & Technology: The festival beautifully merges heritage with innovation, featuring nightly spectacles such as drone and laser shows, fireworks displays, and themed concert nights.
Family-Friendly Zones: Specially designed areas cater to families, offering adventure zones, interactive experiences, and activities tailored for children.
Food & Culinary Experience: A variety of food corners and restaurants showcase both traditional Emirati dishes and international cuisine, supporting local entrepreneurs and emphasizing the festival’s multicultural spirit.
Heritage, Innovation & Sustainability
This edition of the Sheikh Zayed Festival strives to balance the preservation of Emirati heritage with the embrace of global innovation. The programming and festival grounds reflect this dual objective by fostering deep cultural awareness while delivering modern entertainment in an inclusive and regulated environment. The festival also celebrates the noble values of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, particularly heritage preservation and cultural outreach.
Visitor Access: Ticketing, Opening Hours, and Parking Information
Visitors are encouraged to consult the official festival website for ticketing, maps, and daily schedules. Typical opening hours run from around 4 pm until midnight on weekdays, extending to 1 am on weekends and public holidays. The festival site is accessible via car or ride-share options, with ample parking and clear signage. Facilities and services to support people with disabilities ensure that the event is welcoming and comfortable for all attendees.
Significance for Abu Dhabi and the UAE
The Sheikh Zayed Festival plays a critical role in advancing national priorities by promoting cultural dialogue, enhancing tourism diversification, and fostering community engagement. By hosting such large-scale cultural events that harmonize entertainment and heritage, Abu Dhabi not only enriches the experiences of residents and visitors but also strengthens its global reputation as a premier cultural destination. The extensive scale of this edition highlights how cultural festivals are increasingly pivotal in soft power and economic development.
The 2025–2026 Sheikh Zayed Festival offers an expansive and vibrant platform for experiencing Emirati tradition alongside global cultures, engaging family-oriented entertainment, and majestic evening shows. With its rich blend of heritage-focused programming, international participation, and modern spectacles, the festival stands out as a premier cultural highlight in Abu Dhabi’s winter calendar.
