Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club have announced the organization of the 3rd Al Yasat Festival in strategic partnership with the Emirates Council for Balanced Development.
According to Emirates News Agency, the festival is set to take place from 12th to 21st December 2025 at Al Sila waterfront in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra Region. The events and competitions will span over two weekends, from 12th to 14th December and 19th to 21st December, aiming to attract a large number of visitors. The schedule is designed to foster a social and cultural atmosphere that encourages families and the public to engage in a variety of activities.
The festival will feature a comprehensive lineup of maritime, sporting, and heritage competitions, along with community and entertainment activities that highlight national identity and celebrate the UAE's marine traditions. It aims to deliver an all-encompassing community and entertainment experience, blending authenticity with modernity for residents of Al Sila City and Al Dhafra Region. This effort seeks to further cement the festival's status as a significant cultural, entertainment, and tourism event in the UAE.
Highlights include 24 competitions in maritime, sporting, beach, and heritage categories, with total prizes exceeding AED7 million. Key events are the Al Yasat 60ft Dhow Sailing Race, the Gaffai 22ft Dhow Sailing Race, offering prizes up to AED 600,000, the Al Yasat Regatta, the Al Hadad (falconry) Championship, and the Al Yasat Sheri Fishing Championship. Other competitions include carrom and domino for men and women, swimming, beach volleyball, beach football for adults and youth, running races, cooking competitions, a traditional costume contest, a cycling race, and traditional games.
A traditional market will showcase heritage products, crafts, and Emirati cuisine, with spaces for productive families and emerging businesses. Children's zones will provide games, competitions, and family entertainment, supporting local talent and emphasizing Emirati heritage. Daily awareness activities by participating entities, traditional handicraft demonstrations, folk art performances, and other events will also be featured.
The festival underscores Abu Dhabi's commitment to preserving maritime heritage and promoting it both locally and internationally. Supported by the leadership, the event emphasizes preserving traditions and promoting national events that embody the UAE's identity.
The festival aims to highlight coastal cities and the UAE islands, offering visitors a rich entertainment and cultural experience while enhancing social cohesion. It supports tourism and economic activity in Al Sila City, showcases maritime heritage and traditional customs, and provides community-focused events that celebrate cultural diversity.
Additionally, the festival seeks to strengthen traditional dhow sailing sports, encourage youth participation in marine activities, support productive families and artisans, and advance the leadership's vision of preserving and sustaining heritage.