Al Ain Dates Festival commences

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the activities of the first edition of the Al Ain Dates Festival began on Friday in the city of Al Ain and will continue until January 8.

On its first day, the festival received 2,025 kilogrammes of dates submitted by 27 participants in the “Elite Al Ain” competition. Additionally, 600 boxes, totalling 2,000 kilogrammes, were presented for participation in the date auction.

Organised by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, the festival aims to highlight the historical significance of the palm tree as an Emirati heritage symbol, enhancing awareness of UAE traditions and cultural practices. It also seeks to shed light on the historical importance of Al Ain City and promote its cultural, economic, and agricultural potential.

The opening of the festival was attended by Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili. Chairman of the Department of Community Development, Abu Dhabi, Abdullah Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, alongside other dignitaries, prominent figures of Al Ain, and executive directors from various sectors of the Authority.

Central to the festivities are seven date competitions, each spotlighting a distinct variety: Al Ain Elite, Khalas, Fard, Dabbas, Bumaan, Sheeshi, and Zamli. Participants will vie for a share of 70 prizes, collectively totalling Dhs1.756 million.

Beyond the competitions, attendees can immerse themselves in a vibrant date auction, explore date shops, and wander through a traditional market.

Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority will host the second edition of the Al Wathba Dates Festival from 10th January to 28th February 2025 in the Al Wathba region of Abu Dhabi as part of the Sheikh Zayed Festival.

The festival is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court.

The festival will feature 12 competitions for date packaging (both with and without additives) across six varieties: Khalas, Fard, Dabbas Boumaan, Shishi, and Zamli.

A total of 120 prizes worth over Dhs2 million will be awarded. Additionally, a traditional market will showcase shops dedicated to dates and related industries and outlets offering agricultural tools and palm seedlings.

WAM