In consonance with the charming ambience and unique heritage of the city of Liwa, also known as the Gate of the Empty Quarter, in Al Dhafra region in Abu Dhabi, the Cultural Programmes and Heritage Festivals Committee – Abu Dhabi is organising the Liwa Dates Festival under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.

The festival pursues the Committee’s strategy, inspired by the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (May God Bless His Soul), of preserving and sustaining authentic Emirati heritage, specifically the country’s palm trees and Ratab (half-ripe dates). For centuries, palm trees and Ratab have been an integral part of Emirati society and its deep-rooted traditions. Hence, the festival is a reflection of our wise leadership’s efforts to pay tribute to these living symbols of the past's authenticity, the present's prosperity and the future's promise.   

The festival will feature various internationally acclaimed Emirati heritage activities and competitions that have been extremely popular in past editions. Today, the Liwa Date Festival is widely recognised as a unique gathering for those passionate about the role of palm trees and Ratab, including individuals and companies.

The Liwa Dates Festival is also a great opportunity to learn about Emirati customs and traditions and to discover locals industries and handicraft products. Visitors can attend the Date Beauty Contest (Mazayna) and its accompanying activities and events. They can also take part in the interactive platform, which is open for all family members and visitors.