Every year, Dibba Al-Fujairah brings people together for a truly flavorful celebration — the annual Seafood Festival. This year’s edition was bigger and better than ever, drawing in thousands of visitors from across the UAE and beyond. From the rich aroma of grilled fish to the excitement of live cooking competitions, the festival delivered a complete cultural and culinary experience.
Located on the eastern coast of the UAE, Dibba Al-Fujairah is known for its strong fishing heritage. The seafood festival is a proud showcase of this heritage and a celebration of the sea’s bounty. It’s not just a local event anymore — it’s quickly becoming one of the top tourist attractions in the region.
A Celebration of the Sea and Culture
The heart of the festival lies in its seafood. Freshly caught fish, prawns, crabs, and other delicacies were available in many forms — grilled, fried, stewed, or steamed. Visitors had the chance to taste traditional Emirati seafood dishes, prepared with recipes passed down through generations.
But it wasn’t just about the food. The festival also included music, art, and cultural performances that reflected the history and lifestyle of the people of Dibba Al-Fujairah. Folk dances, sea shanties, and poetry sessions were all part of the celebration, giving visitors a rich and colorful experience.
Local vendors and artisans also took part, selling handmade products like woven baskets, fish traps, and traditional cooking tools. These items added a personal, authentic touch to the event and supported local craftsmanship.
Cooking Competitions That Fired Up the Crowd
One of the most exciting parts of the festival was the seafood cooking competitions. Local chefs, home cooks, and even young culinary students competed to show off their cooking skills. The air was filled with the smell of sizzling spices and fresh seafood as participants prepared their dishes live in front of enthusiastic audiences.
Judges included food experts, celebrity chefs, and cultural figures from the region. They evaluated the dishes based on taste, creativity, and presentation. Winners received awards and recognition, while spectators enjoyed watching the drama unfold — and sampling some of the delicious results.
The competitions encouraged creativity and sparked conversations around sustainable fishing and the importance of preserving culinary traditions.
Marine-Themed Fun for the Whole Family
The festival was designed to be fun for all ages. Kids had a blast participating in marine-themed games and educational activities. Interactive exhibits taught them about marine life, fishing techniques, and environmental conservation in a way that was both fun and informative.
Families enjoyed boat rides, sand art workshops, and beach games throughout the event. Many took the chance to relax by the sea while tasting snacks and enjoying the festive vibe.
This family-friendly atmosphere made the festival more than just a food event — it became a full weekend getaway for many.
A Boost for Local Tourism and Economy
The success of the Dibba Al-Fujairah Seafood Festival is also a big win for the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, and transport services in the area reported a noticeable increase in business during the event days. Local fishermen and food suppliers also benefited, as the demand for fresh seafood surged.
The festival is now seen as a major tourism booster. It brings attention to the beautiful coastal town of Dibba Al-Fujairah and its unique offerings. From its clean beaches and scenic mountains to its delicious cuisine and friendly people, the town is becoming a favorite destination for both residents and tourists.
Officials hope that the continued growth of the festival will help Dibba Al-Fujairah earn a permanent spot on the UAE’s tourism calendar.
What Visitors Had to Say
Many visitors were excited to share their experiences. Some came for the food, others for the cultural performances, and many for both. Families, groups of friends, and solo travelers all found something to enjoy.
“I loved the grilled fish and the live music,” said Aisha, a visitor from Dubai. “It’s amazing to see such a mix of food and culture in one place.”
Another guest, Mohammed from Abu Dhabi, said, “This is my second year attending, and it keeps getting better. I brought my kids this time, and they had so much fun with the games and boat rides.”
These positive experiences are proof of the festival’s growing reputation as a joyful and memorable event.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Festival
With each passing year, the Dibba Al-Fujairah Seafood Festival is gaining more attention and attracting larger crowds. Organizers are already planning improvements for the next edition, including more seating areas, expanded food stalls, and better parking solutions.
There are also discussions about hosting seafood-themed workshops and inviting international chefs to join future festivals, making the event even more global and exciting.
Authorities believe that with continuous support and careful planning, the festival could become one of the most important cultural and food events in the UAE.
A Festival to Remember
In a time when people are searching for authentic, family-friendly experiences, the Dibba Al-Fujairah Seafood Festival shines bright. It brings people closer to nature, to their heritage, and to each other — all while enjoying mouth-watering seafood by the sea.
As the waves rolled in and the sun set over the horizon, visitors left the festival with full stomachs, happy hearts, and a promise to return next year.
Also read: Dibba’s New Waterfront Dream Set to Become Reality
