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Abu Dhabi's Mother of the Nation Festival opens November 28 with three new zones
The 10th edition runs until January 3, 2027, across Abu Dhabi City, Al Ain and Al Dhafra.
Abu Dhabi's Mother of the Nation Festival returns for its 10th season from November 28, 2026 to January 3, 2027, introducing three new themed zones and expanded entertainment across the emirate. The Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi announced the programme on October 15, 2026, with delivery by Brag. The festival opens in Al Ain and Al Dhafra on November 28 before expanding to Abu Dhabi City from December 9.
Three themed zones debut along Abu Dhabi Corniche#
The Abu Dhabi City programme introduces three zones along the Corniche from December 9 to January 3. Melting Aurora targets younger visitors with discovery-led activities. Beyond the Sky offers immersive experiences for teenagers and young adults. The Golden Hour combines culinary concepts, live performances and retail. The festival's 2025 edition recorded 266,000 visitors and 493 performances, according to the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi.
Al Ain and Al Dhafra host opening weekend#
Al Mugheirah Bay in Al Dhafra Region and Al Jahili Park in Al Ain Region will host the festival from November 28 to December 2, 2026. The opening days give residents across the emirate early access before the Abu Dhabi City programme begins. The festival runs for more than five weeks across three regions, with new rides, art installations and live music from local and international artists scheduled throughout.
Festival marks 10th anniversary with expanded programme#
The 2026 edition, titled World of Wonder, adds new rides, gaming activations and curated retail experiences blending culture, fashion and creativity. The festival is named in honour of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. Returning attractions will sit alongside the new zones and entertainment offerings. The Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi published the festival dates and programme details on October 15, 2026.
Abu Dhabi entertainment calendar extends into 2027#
The Mother of the Nation Festival forms part of Abu Dhabi's tourism season extending into early 2027. Experience Abu Dhabi announced more than 40 cultural, sporting and entertainment events scheduled across the emirate until early 2027 on October 13, 2026. Events will take place across Abu Dhabi city, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, Al Ain and the Al Dhafra desert region.
Sources2 sources across 2 domains
- khaleejtimes.comKhaleej TimesFestival dates, zones, locations, visitor figures and organising bodies
- travelandtourworld.comTravel and Tour WorldAbu Dhabi tourism season context and Experience Abu Dhabi announcement date
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