Hamdan bin Zayed reviews Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority strategy, Liwa Dates Festival plans

ABU DHABI, July 5, 2025 — H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, met with a delegation from the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority at Al Seef Palace to review the authority’s strategic plans and preparations for the 2025 Liwa Dates Festival.

The delegation, led by Chairman Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, presented the Authority’s strategic framework, which includes over 62 projects and 231 heritage-focused activities. The framework is part of ongoing national efforts to preserve the UAE’s heritage and reinforce national identity values across generations.

Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the importance of preserving authentic Emirati traditions and passing them on to future generations. He said this cultural responsibility is a reflection of the UAE’s leadership vision and aligns with the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

He praised the Authority’s initiatives in nurturing talent in poetry and heritage, supporting traditional crafts, and strengthening the global visibility of Emirati culture. Sheikh Hamdan also urged the Authority to expand its community outreach and public engagement efforts.

During the meeting, the upcoming festival and event plans for the Al Dhafra Region were reviewed. Among the highlights is the 21st edition of the Liwa Dates Festival, expected to attract more than 116,000 visitors. The event, supported by a budget exceeding AED14 million, features 23 competitions focused on dates and summer fruits, with total prize money of over AED8 million.

The festival plays a key role in supporting farmers and local producers, stimulating economic and tourism activity, and celebrating the cultural significance of the palm tree in Emirati heritage. It also includes traditional markets, spaces for heritage crafts, and participation from productive families, encouraging broader community involvement and preservation of national customs.