Brief
Abu Dhabi to host 12th Traditional Handicrafts Festival in October
The free‑entry event runs for 20 days at Souq Al Qattara in Al Ain, showcasing Emirati crafts, falconry and music.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The Gulf News reports that the United Arab Emirates will hold the 12th Traditional Handicrafts Festival from early October for 20 days, with free entry for visitors. The festival is set to take place at Souq Al Qattara in Al Ain, bringing together artisans, families and local communities to celebrate Emirati heritage.
What happened
The festival will feature live demonstrations of traditional Emirati crafts, allowing attendees to watch artisans at work and learn about the techniques involved. A "Craft of the Week" programme will spotlight a different craft each day, focusing on the skills, materials and cultural significance. In a Designers’ Space, local designers will present contemporary interpretations of traditional heritage, illustrating how cultural influences can be merged with modern design.
What the reports add
According to Gulf News, falconry will be a key component, offering visitors insight into a practice closely linked to Emirati identity. The Music Pavilion will combine craft and music, while a traditional performance programme will include live sessions such as "Sounds of the UAE". An Al Ayyala Workshop will teach basic movements of the coordinated Emirati performance that uses canes. The Al Maqith Exhibition will guide visitors from Al Ain’s oasis to the UAE’s coastline, exploring how different landscapes shaped local traditions.
What was said
The article does not quote any officials or organisers directly; it describes the planned activities and the festival’s free‑entry policy.
How it came about
The festival builds on Abu Dhabi’s broader cultural initiatives, such as the 65 Emirati Hospitality Standards announced in September 2026 and the city’s livability vision highlighted in a September keynote speech. Both efforts aim to embed heritage into public life and attract visitors, aligning with the cultural focus of the upcoming handicrafts event.
Key facts
- The 12th Traditional Handicrafts Festival will run for 20 days in October 2026. (gulfnews.com)
- The venue is Souq Al Qattara in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. (gulfnews.com)
- The festival is free to attend and includes live craft demonstrations, falconry, music and workshops. (gulfnews.com)
- A "Craft of the Week" programme will highlight a different traditional craft each day. (gulfnews.com)
- The event features a Designers’ Space showcasing contemporary reinterpretations of heritage. (gulfnews.com)
Sources
- [1] gulfnews.com — originally reported as “Experience Emirati Heritage at the 12th Traditional Handicrafts Festival in Abu Dhabi This October”
