Sheikh Zayed Festival

Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025–2026

Are you ready for a season packed with culture, music, and unforgettable memories? The Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025–2026 is back in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi. It's bigger, brighter, and more extraordinary than ever, and it takes place from November 1 to February 28. This incredible event celebrates the vision of Sheikh Zayed, the founding father of the UAE, by bringing together Emirati traditions, world cultures, live concerts, and family entertainment all in one grand festival.

Every year, it draws thousands of locals and visitors who come to watch fireworks, enjoy performances, and share in the spirit of unity. With Captain Dunes, your visit becomes a smooth transport; tickets and local tips are all handled so you can focus on the magic.

Event Highlights / What To Expect

Here’s a peek at what you’ll see and do at the festival:

• Drone & Fireworks Shows: Dazzling aerial displays with synchronized lights and sound, especially on Saturdays and special occasions.
• Heritage Village & Cultural Zones: Step into traditional Emirati life with folk performances, handicrafts, local artisans, and cultural stories.
• Concerts & Layali Al Wathba: Weekly shows bring a mix of local and international artists. Enjoy music nights, folk, modern acts, and themed evenings.
• International Pavilions & Food Festival: Explore pavilions from many countries, try foods from different cuisines, see cultural exhibits, and taste unique treats.

Dates, Timings & Venue Info

• Venue/Location: Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi (Zayed Festival Village)
• Dates: 1 November 2025 – 28 February 2026
• Timings: Evening hours are best; performances start after dusk, and shows carry on into the night.
• Ticket/Entry Info: Basic access to many zones is open to the public. Some concerts, VIP zones, or special shows may require tickets; check the festival’s official site or ask your Captain Dunes package for details.
• Best Time to Visit: During weekends or special event nights, arrive early to find a good spot for shows and performances.

How To Reach

• By Taxi/Car: Al Wathba is accessible from central Abu Dhabi. On festival nights, roads may be busy, so leave early.
• By Public Transport: Some buses or shuttle services may run toward Al Wathba during the festival period.
• The easiest way is to book your transfer with Captain Dunes and let us handle timing, drop-offs, and returns so you avoid traffic worries.

Nearby Attractions / Things to Do Around

• Al Wathba Wetland Reserve: Explore natural beauty and wildlife nearby.
• Desert Scenery & Drives: Use the festival as a base to take trips into nearby desert landscapes.
• Local Markets/Villages: Visit small nearby communities to see daily Emirati life.
• Cultural & Heritage Sites in Abu Dhabi: After your festival visit, head back to the city to see places like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Hosn, or Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Why Should You Go

Sheikh Zayed Festival is a rare chance to experience the culture of the UAE in a grand, festive setting. It’s not just shows; it’s heritage, art, and joy all in one place. You’ll make memories of nights under lights, discover new music, sample new foods, and connect with the spirit of Abu Dhabi in a way most tourists don’t.

Insider Tips

• Best Photo Spots: In front of the main stage, near water fountains, and around International Pavilion entrances.
• What to Wear: Comfy clothes, walking shoes, and maybe a light jacket for late evening.
• Crowd/Timing Tip: Weekends are busiest; if possible, visit on weeknights. Arrive early before big shows.
• Family Tips: Use children’s zones and rest areas, and check show timings so kids aren’t too late or overstimulated.

Celebrate Culture With Captain Dunes

Sheikh Zayed Festival is more than entertainment; it’s a living tribute to heritage, unity, and the future. With Captain Dunes, your experience becomes effortless. Skip the planning stress, follow the best schedule, and see the festival the best way possible.

Book your Abu Dhabi cultural escape with Captain Dunes and join us under the lights of Al Wathba for an unforgettable festival of heritage and heart.