Al ain: H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Ain Region, has attended the inaugural Al Ain Heritage Festival, organised by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority. The festival is being held at the ADNEC Centre Al Ain and will run until 9th February 2026, under the theme "Tales from Our Heritage."
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Hazza toured the festival's key pavilions and activities, which highlight the richness of Emirati heritage and Al Ain's status as a cultural hub for preserving traditions and reinforcing national values. During his visit, he explored the Date Festival, which underscores the historical and cultural importance of date palm trees. This event features a Date Market with eight competitions for select varieties, including Elite Al Ain, Khalas, Shishi, Zamli, Boumaan, Dabbas, Fard, and Wahat.
H.H. Sheikh Hazza also visited other festival activities, such as the Honey Village, traditional handicraft displays, folk art performances, and Emirati cooking demonstrations. The festival offers interactive educational programmes for children and families. He emphasized the significance of cultural events in strengthening heritage, safeguarding community values, and integrating them into daily life as part of the national identity.
The Al Ain Heritage Festival acts as a platform for celebrating authentic Emirati heritage through a variety of events. The Outdoor Performance Arena hosts live heritage shows, including falconry and Arabian saluki displays, alongside traditional cooking activities showcasing Emirati, Gulf, and Arab cuisine. The festival also features traditional art performances, as well as artistic, poetic, and theatrical evenings with a heritage theme.
H.H. Sheikh Hazza was joined during his visit by Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Abdulla Mubarak Al Muhairi, Acting Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority; and several officials.