Step into living heritage at the capital’s oldest landmark
Abu Dhabi’s cultural heartbeat returns to its roots as the Al Hosn Festival opens its doors at Qasr Al Hosn, the city’s oldest standing structure. Taking place from 17 January to 26 January, the festival transforms the historic fort into a vibrant cultural gathering where Emirati traditions, values, and creativity are experienced rather than simply observed. From the moment visitors step through the gates, the atmosphere feels intimate, welcoming, and deeply connected to the nation’s past.
Set against the white coral stone walls of the fort, the festival offers a rare opportunity to slow down and reconnect with the stories that shaped modern Abu Dhabi. It is not just a celebration of history, but a living expression of how heritage continues to influence daily life in the Emirates today.
Traditional crafts brought to life
One of the festival’s most captivating elements is its lively heritage souk. Skilled artisans demonstrate show traditional Emirati crafts that have been passed down through generations. Visitors can watch the rhythmic process of Al Sadu weaving, see clay transformed into pottery, and admire delicate calligraphy created by hand. Each craft stall is an open classroom, inviting questions and conversations that reveal the meaning behind every pattern, tool, and technique.
Children are encouraged to participate through hands-on workshops designed to spark curiosity and respect for cultural traditions. These interactive sessions allow younger visitors to learn by doing, creating their own simple crafts while understanding the values of patience, community, and storytelling embedded within Emirati heritage.
Music, dance, and shared moments
As the sun sets, the fort comes alive with sound and movement. Traditional music and dance performances echo through the courtyard, creating an atmosphere that feels both festive and reflective. Performers dressed in traditional attire bring age-old rhythms to life, offering audiences a glimpse into celebrations that once marked important moments in village and desert life.
These performances are not staged spectacles but communal experiences. Visitors often find themselves clapping along or drawn into conversations with performers who explain the significance of each dance and melody. It is in these moments that the festival’s spirit truly shines, creating connections between people of different cultures and generations.
Discover Emirati flavours and hospitality
Food plays a central role in Emirati culture, and the Al Hosn Festival uses cuisine as a bridge between past and present. Visitors can sample traditional dishes prepared using time-honoured recipes, from slow-cooked meats to aromatic rice dishes and sweet treats infused with dates and spices.
The experience goes beyond tasting. Guests are invited to learn how these dishes are prepared, why certain ingredients are used, and how meals have traditionally brought families and neighbours together. Hospitality is at the heart of the festival, with warm welcomes and shared tables reflecting values that remain deeply rooted in Emirati society.
Traditional dress and identity
Costumes and adornments feature prominently throughout the festival, offering insight into how clothing reflects identity, environment, and social values. Visitors can explore displays showcasing traditional garments for men and women, learning about the fabrics, embroidery, and jewellery that have defined Emirati style for centuries.
Many guests choose to try on traditional attire, creating memorable photo moments while gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship involved. These experiences highlight how clothing is not just about appearance but also about belonging, respect suggests, and cultural pride.
Art, storytelling, and immersive experiences
Beyond crafts and performances, the festival features curated art exhibitions and interactive installations that explore Emirati identity through contemporary and traditional lenses. Storytelling sessions invite visitors to listen to tales inspired by desert life, seafaring journeys, and family traditions, offering insight into how oral history has preserved knowledge and values over time.
These creative spaces encourage reflection and participation, allowing visitors to engage with heritage in ways that feel personal and meaningful. Whether through art, sound, or shared stories, the festival creates a layered experience that resonates long after the visit ends.
A festival that connects generations
At its core, the Al Hosn Festival is about connection. Elders share knowledge with younger generations, families explore together, and visitors from around the world gain a deeper understanding of Emirati culture. The setting of Qasr Al Hosn reinforces this sense of continuity, standing as a symbol of resilience, leadership, and community.
Rather than presenting history as something distant, the festival shows how tradition evolves while remaining relevant. It celebrates values such as respect, generosity, and unity, reminding visitors that heritage is not static but alive in everyday actions and shared experiences.
Why Al Hosn Festival matters
In a rapidly changing city, the Al Hosn Festival offers a moment to pause and reflect. It invites residents and visitors alike to rediscover the foundations of Abu Dhabi’s identity and understand how the past informs the present. Through crafts, food, music, and conversation, the festival creates a space where culture is experienced with authenticity and warmth.
For anyone seeking a deeper, more meaningful cultural experience in Abu Dhabi, the Al Hosn Festival stands out as a must-visit event. It is not just a festival, but a journey into the heart of Emirati heritage.
The details you need to know
Location: Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi
Dates: 17 January to 26 January
Time: 4pm to 11pm
Cost: Dhs35
Contact: 02 697 6400
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