The Al Dhafra Date Festival and Auction kicks off tomorrow in Zayed City with 173 prizes, Moroccan dates, and Emirati cultural events.
ZAYED CITY: The much-anticipated Al Dhafra Date Festival and Auction returns tomorrow, October 17, bringing a rich blend of Emirati heritage, competitions, and cultural celebrations to the Al Dhafra Region. Now in its fourth edition, the festival will run until October 26, under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the region.
Held in Zayed City, this year’s festival features 21 competitions and a whopping 173 prizes worth over AED 5.5 million. Organised by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority in partnership with Serh Group, the event promises vibrant entertainment and a wide variety of traditional and modern showcases.
Visitors can expect exciting date mazayna (beauty) contests, as well as competitions for honey, cooking, date packaging, painting, and photography. A major highlight is the daily date auction, where premium Emirati dates go to the highest bidder.
This year, Morocco joins as the official Guest of Honour, reflecting strong agricultural ties between the two countries. The Moroccan Date Village will offer an authentic experience — showcasing Moroccan dates and providing a direct sales outlet for visitors.
Not to be missed is the Honey Village, designed to support local beekeepers and producers. Here, guests can explore different types of Emirati honey and learn about its production.
Beyond food and farming, the festival is a cultural hub, hosting workshops, exhibitions, traditional crafts, and family-friendly performances. Local entities will also present awareness sessions and innovations in agriculture, making this a must-visit for food lovers, culture fans, and curious minds alike.
