The 2025 Maritime Heritage Festival has kicked off in Abu Dhabi and will run for 10 days, until November 23. Visitors can embark on a journey into the past and get to know the stories of seafarers whose lives were deeply intertwined with the sea. Guests can participate in numerous interactive events inspired by maritime heritage and its traditions. Farah Al-Bukoush, Director of Festivals and Cultural Platforms at the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, stated that the fourth edition focuses on Emirati values through the lens of the maritime community, showcasing how these values are passed down from generation to generation.
This year, the festival introduced new sections and programs. Among them is 'Lavan Artisans,' which features live shows focusing on seven traditional Emirati crafts, and the 'Young Artisans Program,' through which artisans pass on their skills to the youth. Other new additions include the 'Coffee House,' highlighting Emirati hospitality, and 'Mils Al-Sayf' (a space for meeting heritage experts). Visitors can explore the 'Path of Maritime Heritage Values,' offering a new 3D audio experience, and the 'Waves and Traditions: A Journey into Maritime Crafts and Their Cultural Heritage' exhibition.
Among the new interactive experiences is the 'Fisherman's Experience' in the 'Al-Mahal' area, where visitors learn to fish with a rod and discover the secrets of fishing, as well as 'Oyster Shelling,' allowing them to feel the same emotions as their ancestors did when finding pearls. The main stage will feature performances inspired by the lives of ancestors, such as the musical play 'Al-Danat' about a young man proving his bravery to win the hand of a captain's daughter, and other maritime shows. The program also includes folk games, beach wrestling competitions, and a fish market where visitors can see various fish species, observe auctions, and purchase fish.
