Sheikh Zayed Festival Tickets 2025: The Sheikh Zayed Festival is one of Abu Dhabi’s most celebrated cultural and entertainment events, drawing visitors from across the UAE and beyond. Held annually at Al Wathba, the festival combines rich Emirati heritage with modern entertainment, offering a truly immersive experience for families, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts. If you’re planning to attend, this guide covers everything you need to know about Sheikh Zayed Festival tickets, attractions, and tips for a seamless visit.
Festival Dates and Venue
The 2025–2026 Sheikh Zayed Festival will run from November 1, 2025, to March 22, 2026, at Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi. The festival hours vary slightly depending on weekdays and weekends:
| Day | Timings |
|---|---|
| Sunday – Thursday | 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Friday – Saturday & Public Holidays | 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
Al Wathba transforms into a vibrant cultural hub, featuring themed pavilions, entertainment zones, food courts, and outdoor performance spaces.
Sheikh Zayed Festival Tickets 2025
Ticket Information
Tickets for the Sheikh Zayed Festival are designed to cater to all types of visitors, including families, students, seniors, and people of determination.
| Ticket Type | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | AED 10 | General admission |
| Children under 3 | Free | Must be accompanied by an adult |
| Seniors (60+) | Free | Complimentary entry |
| Student (UAE Universities) | AED 35 | Proof of ID required |
| Teacher (Emirati employed) | AED 35 | Proof of ID required |
| People of Determination | Free | Companion ticket available |
| Journalist | Free | Proof of assignment required |
How to Purchase Tickets:
- On-site: Tickets are available at the festival entrances.
- Online: Currently, the festival only supports on-site ticketing.
Accessibility: Wheelchairs of various sizes are available, ensuring the festival is inclusive for all visitors.
Popular Festival Attractions
The Sheikh Zayed Festival offers a wide range of attractions that cater to all ages and interests.
1. Fireworks and Drone Shows
Every weekend, visitors can enjoy spectacular fireworks displays synchronized with music. The festival also features drone shows that illuminate the sky with captivating designs and patterns.
2. Heritage Village and Cultural Pavilions
Explore traditional Emirati life through heritage pavilions, handicrafts, live folk performances, and interactive exhibits that highlight the UAE’s rich cultural history.
3. Al Wathba Floating Market & Culinary Experiences
Taste international cuisines and traditional Emirati dishes at the floating market. Enjoy unique culinary experiences served on boats and waterside platforms, offering a perfect blend of culture and gastronomy.
4. Wildlife Sanctuary
Learn about rare and endangered animals at the Wildlife Secrets Sanctuary, where visitors can interact with wildlife and enjoy educational shows.
5. Kids’ Zone and Stage Activities
The festival provides interactive areas for children, including circus performances, balloon shows, storytelling, magic shows, and creative workshops, ensuring family-friendly entertainment.
6. Traditional Sports and Competitions
Witness camel races, falconry competitions, dhow sailing races, and other traditional Emirati sporting events, celebrating the nation’s heritage.
7. Music Concerts and Live Performances
International and regional artists perform in weekly concerts, complemented by laser, light, and fireworks displays for a complete entertainment experience.
Artists and Chief guests at the Sheikh Zayed Festival 2025–2026
| Category | Name / Details | Role / Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Chief Guests | His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan | Patron & Festival Inauguration |
| His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan | Guidance & Oversight | |
| International Artists | TBD (Global Music & Dance Performers) | Live Music Concerts & Cultural Performances |
| Arab Artists | Leading Arab Musicians & Singers | Evening Concerts & Special Shows |
| Emirati Artists | Local Folk Performers | Traditional Dance, Music, & Heritage Performances |
| Children & Youth Performers | Students & Young Talents | Kids’ Shows, Circus, Magic Shows, Balloon Art |
| Special Guests | Award Winners / Agricultural Excellence Participants | Recognition & Cultural Showcases |
Sheikh Zayed Festival attractions and events
| Attraction / Event | Description | Timing / Schedule | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fireworks Shows | Spectacular pyrotechnic displays synchronized with music, breaking Guinness World Records. | Every Saturday, National Day & New Year’s Eve | Festival Grounds |
| Drone Shows | Drones create artistic light displays in the sky, complementing fireworks. | Daily evening shows | Festival Grounds |
| Heritage Village | Explore Emirati culture, handicrafts, folk performances, and traditional life. | 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM | Heritage Pavilion |
| Al Wathba Floating Market | Sample international and Emirati cuisines served from boats. | 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM | Waterfront Area |
| Wildlife Secrets Sanctuary | Learn about rare and endangered species with interactive shows. | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Wildlife Zone |
| Kids’ Zone & Stage Activities | Circus, magic shows, storytelling, balloon art, face painting, and creative workshops. | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Children’s Area |
| Camel Races & Falconry Competitions | Traditional Emirati sports and competitions celebrating heritage. | Weekends & special events | Sports Arena |
| Dhow Sailing Race | Traditional wooden boats racing along Al Wathba waterways. | Select festival days | Waterfront Area |
| Music Concerts & Live Performances | International and regional artists perform with laser and light shows. | Weekly evenings | Main Stage |
| Al Wathba Custom Car Show | Showcasing modified and classic cars with competitions. | 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Exhibition Zone |
| Family Entertainment City | Games, rides, and interactive activities for all ages. | 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM | Entertainment Area |
| Emirates Fountain Shows | Water, light, and laser shows synchronized with music. | Daily evening shows | Fountain Stage |
Sheikh Zayed Festival schedule 2025
| Day / Date | Event / Activity | Timing | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily (Nov 1, 2025 – Mar 22, 2026) | General Festival Activities (heritage pavilions, markets, exhibitions) | 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Sun–Thu) 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM (Fri–Sat & Public Holidays) | Festival Grounds |
| Every Saturday | Fireworks Shows | Evening | Main Stage / Open Grounds |
| National Day (UAE) | Union Parade, Traditional Performances | All Day | Parade Route & Main Stage |
| New Year’s Eve | Guinness World Record Fireworks & Drone Show | 8:00 PM – 12:30 AM | Main Grounds |
| Weekends | Camel Races & Falconry Competitions | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Sports Arena |
| Select Days | Dhow Sailing Race | Afternoon | Waterfront Area |
| Weekly | Music Concerts & Live Performances | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Main Stage |
| Daily | Kids’ Zone Activities (Circus, Magic Shows, Balloon Art) | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Children’s Area |
| Daily | Emirates Fountain Shows | 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM | Fountain Stag |
Nearby Attractions and Hotels section for Sheikh Zayed Festival visitors
Nearby Attractions
- Al Wathba Wetland Reserve – Birdwatching and nature trails
- Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital – Learn about falconry and wildlife conservation
- Al Ain Oasis – UNESCO heritage site with lush palm groves
- Qasr Al Muwaiji – Historical fort and museum showcasing UAE history
- Emirates Park Zoo – Family-friendly wildlife experiences
Nearby Hotels
- Le Meridien Al Ain – Luxury stay with modern amenities
- Radisson Blu Hotel – Comfortable accommodation with easy festival access
- Al Ain Rotana – Premium hotel offering dining and leisure options
- Ayla Hotel & Suites – Mid-range hotel suitable for families
- Premier Inn Abu Dhabi International Airport – Budget-friendly option for travelers
Tips for Festival Visitors
- Arrive early for popular events and shows.
- Dress comfortably for outdoor evening events.
- Stay hydrated and plan meals at the food courts.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair users should request assistance in advance.
- Safety: Follow festival signage and staff instructions.
Do’s and Don’ts
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Respect cultural norms | Litter in the festival grounds |
| Arrive early for shows | Touch or feed animals in the sanctuary |
| Keep children under supervision | Smoke outside designated areas |
| Use designated pathways | Disrupt performances or activities |
| Carry necessary ID for special tickets | Bring prohibited items |
FAQs
1. How much do Sheikh Zayed Festival tickets cost?
- Entry tickets are priced at AED 10 per person. Certain categories such as children under 3 years and adults over 60 years can enter free of charge.
2. Can I book tickets online?
- No, online booking is not available. Tickets are sold directly at the festival entrances on a first-come, first-served basis.
3. What are the festival dates for 2025–2026?
- The festival runs from November 1, 2025, to March 22, 2026.
4. What are the visiting hours?
- Sunday–Thursday: 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Weekends & Public Holidays: 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM
5. Are children allowed to enter?
- Yes, children are welcome. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 3 can enter free.
6. Are there any special tickets for seniors or people of determination?
- Yes, senior Emiratis (60+) and people of determination are eligible for complimentary entry tickets.
7. Is there any dress code for visitors?
- There is no strict dress code, but it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear for walking and exploring the festival.
8. Can I bring food or beverages inside the festival?
- Outside food and drinks are not allowed. Multiple food stalls, cafés, and international cuisine options are available inside.
9. Are there any accessibility facilities for differently-abled visitors?
- Yes, the festival provides wheelchair access and special facilities for people with disabilities.
10. How can I stay updated about the festival schedule and events?
- Subscribe to the official festival newsletter or follow their social media channels on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Snapchat, and YouTube for real-time updates.
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