Three-day extravaganza has been planned for the Sheikh Zayed Festival, under the theme 'Hayakum'

In commemoration of the 52nd Union Day of the UAE, the Sheikh Zayed Festival has revealed an exciting schedule of large-scale, distinctive, and eagerly awaited events, activities, and shows. With the Union Parade, amazing fireworks displays, captivating drone shows, mesmerising fountain performances, the international civilisations parade, and a variety of cultural, heritage, and entertainment festivities, the festival grounds and pavilions will come alive with a dynamic array of celebrations. The 52nd Union Day festivities are expected to captivate attendees with captivating competitions and eye-catching prizes all throughout the event.

The Sheikh Zayed Festival, with the theme "Hayakum," has carefully organised a three-day event scheduled for December 1, 2, and 3, from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Numerous cultural and entertainment activities will take place across the festival grounds, participant pavilions, and other government bodies.

The Union Parade, which is set for December 3, represents a national identity that conveys patriotism and a strong sense of unity with the country and its authorities. It embodies the values that the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (may God rest his soul) saw as the cornerstone of the UAE's sustained growth and development. The Union Parade is a sincere way for the people to show their appreciation for their nation and its wise leadership.

Visitors will be able to enjoy a variety of performances in line with the 52nd Union Day celebrations. These include special musical pieces composed for the event performed by an orchestra, traditional bands from the UAE exhibiting traditional arts, and the Abu Dhabi Police Musical Band's enthralling roving performances. In keeping with the UAE's popular legacy, the latter will perform classic works that evoke strong feelings of loyalty and patriotism.

With its distinctive activities catering to a wide range of nationalities, the "Heritage Village" will provide tourists with a firsthand look at real Emirati heritage in all four of its environments: mountainous, agricultural, maritime, and desert. Through handicrafts, crafts, and the arts, the village hopes to highlight different facets of popular history. It places special emphasis on traditional art's relevance to the present and its function in introducing future generations to the rich human ingenuity and rich cultural legacy it symbolises for the nation's citizens.

To honour Union Day, unique decorations will be placed throughout the festival's pavilions, sections, and grounds. This involves integrating the number 52 and creating lighting formations with a variety of heritage patterns. With their symbolic representations of pride in the nation's accomplishments, respect for the UAE flag, and appreciation for the astute leadership, these decorations hope to foster a joyful and upbeat atmosphere.

Dazzling fireworks honouring the occasion will light up the skies over the Sheikh Zayed Festival. Drone displays will light up the night sky, creating amazing creative designs. Major explosions will burst into unique shapes and brilliant colours, beautifying the skies over Al Wathba.

Featuring a combination of lights, the vivid colours of the UAE flag, music, and laser projections, the Emirates Fountain—one of the biggest water fountains in the area—will provide amazing exhibitions.

The "Most Beautiful Emirati Heritage Costume" competition will provide attendees of all ages and nationalities the opportunity to vie for priceless prizes as the centrepiece of the Union Day celebrations. Participants in this competition have the opportunity to present how they have interpreted traditional clothing artistically, demonstrating a deep awareness of Emirati culture. The community uses it as a joyous time to explore and admire the elegance and variety of traditional clothing.

In addition to artistic performances and heritage contests at the Children's Theatre, which strengthen a sense of connection and allegiance to the motherland, Fun Fair City provides a new celebratory mood through a variety of games suitable for all age groups throughout the celebrations. Along with classes, the Children's City will feature live performances, awards, and kid-friendly products in addition to a variety of competitions. Along with competing in brand-new activities, theatrical productions, talent displays, and a host of other celebration-related surprises, children will also get to experience an exciting environment at the Festival.

Visitors to the Sheikh Zayed Festival can enjoy a wide range of events, activities, and competitions suitable for all age groups while spending valuable time outdoors with family and friends. The festival is open daily from 4:00 pm until 12:00 midnight on weekdays and until 1:00 am on weekends and official holidays.