From January 10 to February 28, 2025, the Al Wathba region in Abu Dhabi will host the second edition of the Al Wathba Dates Festival, a key feature of the Sheikh Zayed Festival. Organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the event celebrates the enduring cultural and agricultural significance of date palms in the UAE.
This year’s festival will bring together date enthusiasts, farmers, and traders from around the globe. It will include 12 competitions highlighting date packaging — with and without additives — featuring six prized varieties.
With 120 prizes worth over AED 2 million, the festival offers an exciting opportunity for participants to showcase their skills and dedication to palm cultivation.
Beyond the competitions, visitors can explore a vibrant traditional market, home to shops specializing in dates, date-based products, agricultural tools, and palm seedlings. This space offers an enriching glimpse into the UAE’s deep-rooted connection to palm cultivation and the thriving industries that revolve around it.
The festival’s broader mission is to promote sustainable farming practices and raise awareness about the vital role of palm trees in food security. Inspired by the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, it emphasizes sustainable palm cultivation and encourages innovation in the production and marketing of dates and related products.
As part of the Sheikh Zayed Festival, the Al Wathba Dates Festival creates a platform for global collaboration. It facilitates the exchange of expertise among farmers, showcases advanced farming techniques, and celebrates authentic Emirati traditions. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a cultural and agricultural journey that underscores the UAE’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modern sustainability goals.
Whether you’re passionate about dates, intrigued by agricultural heritage, or simply looking for a unique experience, the Al Wathba Dates Festival is a must-visit event.
