A Celebration of Emirati Heritage and Childhood Wonder

Under the distinguished patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Culture presents a splendid gathering that honours the richness of Emirati traditions whilst embracing the boundless curiosity and joy of childhood. The Traditional Handicrafts Festival unfolds as an enchanting convergence of heritage and play, where young visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the cultural tapestry that defines the Emirates.

From 23 October through 11 November 2026, the historic Souq Al Qattara in Al Ain becomes a living theatre of tradition and discovery. Here, guests encounter an exquisite array of experiences thoughtfully designed to celebrate Emirati heritage through the most natural and delightful of languages: play, craftsmanship and storytelling.

The festival presents an extraordinary collection of Emirati folk games and heritage carnival activities, each imbued with the spirit of generations past. Alongside these beloved pastimes, carefully curated hands-on craft experiences offer visitors the opportunity to engage directly with traditional artistry, transforming observation into participation and learning into lived memory. Festival storytelling weaves narrative threads throughout, connecting these cultural encounters into a cohesive celebration of Emirati identity.

What renders this gathering particularly profound is its dedication to fostering genuine community connection. Rather than presenting culture as something distant or merely to be observed, the festival creates spaces where heritage becomes tangible, where traditions live and breathe through active engagement, and where families gather to create new memories whilst honouring time honoured customs.

The setting itself, within the atmospheric confines of Souq Al Qattara, enhances this cultural immersion. The souq’s character and heritage provide an authentic backdrop, allowing the festival’s offerings to resonate with particular resonance and depth.