Liwa city: His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, visited the 21st Liwa Date Festival in Liwa City, Al Dhafra Region. The festival, organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority under his patronage, is a prominent agricultural and heritage event in the UAE. It emphasizes the Authority's commitment to celebrating the UAE's cultural and agricultural traditions.
According to Emirates News Agency, during his visit, Sheikh Mansour toured various pavilions of government and private entities that showcased their services and innovations in the agricultural sector. He was briefed on the festival's competitions and activities, which highlight the economic and social value of the palm tree and its impact on food security and agricultural sustainability.
Sheikh Mansour emphasized that the UAE's agriculture and food production sector is growing significantly due to the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. The continuous support for farmers, producers, and manufacturers is key to ensuring sustainable food production and strengthening national food security.
He stated that the festival reflects the Emirati citizen's connection with the land and reinforces national identity by celebrating the palm tree as a cultural symbol. Supporting local agriculture and empowering farmers contribute to balanced economic distribution and sustainable development, which aligns with the national goal of achieving food self-sufficiency.
Sheikh Mansour praised the festival's role in boosting economic activity in the Al Dhafra Region by attracting thousands of visitors annually. The event serves as a platform for farmers, experts, and pioneers in agricultural industries, solidifying the sector's contribution to the national economy.
Accompanying Sheikh Mansour were Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, and several officials from the authority. The Liwa Date Festival includes competitions with prizes exceeding AED 8.7 million and features heritage activities aimed at preserving the legacy of the palm tree, promoting family and community bonds, and supporting the UAE's 'Year of the Community.'
The festival supports the local community and productive families through a traditional market with stalls for fresh dates, date products, palm-related items, factories, and nurseries. It also hosts pavilions for participating sponsors and supporters.