Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025-26: Emirati Heritage Event in Al Wathba

The Sheikh Zayed Festival is an annual outdoor event showcasing the best of Emirati culture. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the festival bears the name of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in recognition of his role in preserving Emirati heritage and cultural values and unifying the nation.

The festival features a range of daily activities, including traditional dance shows, camel races, falconry, and arts and crafts. There are also high-tech shows, stunning firework displays, fairground rides, and markets, as well as the unforgettable opportunity to try a variety of Emirati food and drink.

If you’re lucky enough to be in the UAE during the festival, you really shouldn’t miss it!

What Does it Cost to Attend the Sheikh Zayed Festival?

The festival has a small entry fee of AED 10 per person. Note that children under 3 years old, People of Determination, and those over 60 are exempt from paying the entry fee.

If you would like to avoid queuing on the day of your visit, you can buy your tickets in advance online through the festival’s website.

Where Do I Find The Sheikh Zayed Festival?

The event is held in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, approximately 40 minutes southeast of Abu Dhabi island.

GPS Co-ordinates: 24.2217° N, 54.6869° E

Most visitors drive to the site, but as a visitor, you can also catch a taxi/Careem, or take advantage of the local bus route that services the grounds.

See the bus timetable from Abu Dhabi Central Station here.

What Should You Expect at the Sheikh Zayed Festival?

Prepare yourself for an experience like no other at the Sheikh Zayed Festival. Combining ancient traditions with modern technology, the Festival aims to showcase to visitors the true essence of the UAE.

There are numerous pavilions featuring interactive exhibitions that highlight the history and heritage of the UAE, as well as a daily programme of events featuring traditional shows, competitions, races, and arts and crafts activities.

Markets and traditional food stalls contribute to the festive atmosphere, all designed to immerse visitors in a genuine Emirati cultural experience. Spectacular fireworks add the icing to the cake every Saturday night at 9.30 pm (11.30pm on New Year’s Eve).

This is a family-friendly event featuring numerous activities specifically designed for children. Kids can get hands-on with things like basket weaving and falconry, as well as watch live performances in the children’s theatre.

Other highlights include:

• The Heritage Village – with different industry and craft installations.
• Fun Fair City – a selection of rides and amusements.
• The ice-rink – that’s right! Don’t miss the opportunity to skate in the desert!
• Camel Rides, Falconry and the Camel Beauty Contest
• Rare Animals Reserve – Learn about endangered animals with real life encounters!
• Pavilions dedicated to countries from around the world featuring information about their own indigenous culture and traditions.
• Drone Show – See the night sky lit up by hundreds of drones.
• Live Performances – including local and international acts.
• The Emirates Fountain Plaza – a stunning water feature with a sound and light show that you will find truly mesmerising!
• A New Year programme including fireworks, lasers and a drone show as well as family activities and musical performances.

Shows and events change year by year. You can check the schedule for 2025-2026 here.

Further Planning Tips For Attending the Sheikh Zayed Festival

At the gate entrances, you will find service centres offering wheelchairs, children’s pushchairs and shopping trolleys. An on-site clinic is available, and childcare facilities are also provided. Police and an ambulance crew are also stationed at the site. There is ample parking available, but valet parking is also available if needed.

With so many shopping opportunities, you’ll be pleased to know that ATMs can be found on-site.

The Festival welcomes People of Determination and offers wheelchair access and accessible toilet facilities. Golf buggies are also available for hire for people with mobility issues.

Please note that all guests should dress modestly and avoid public displays of affection. Pets and bikes are not permitted.

More Cultural Places & Events in Abu Dhabi

You may also be interested on your trip to the UAE to explore:

• Qasr al Hosn – considered the birthplace of Abu Dhabi, this fort museum is an essential starting point for understanding local culture in Abu Dhabi, open year-round.
• Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is an incredible immersive experience providing an insight into the importance of falconry in Bedouin culture.
• Where to get a traditional Emirati meal in Abu Dhabi to satisfy the senses!
• These are the 12 most important cultural attractions in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain you mustn’t miss off your itinerary.
• Winter also brings to Abu Dhabi MOTN Festivals– the Mother of the National Festival, expanding to 3 Abu Dhabi emirate locations this year.

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