Qasr Al Hosn Festival in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: This spectacular event at Qasr Al Hosn is a celebration of over 250 years of the fort’s history.
The festival comprises a series of events and exhibitions showcasing UAE culture and heritage.
Qasr Al Hosn Festival 2016
This festival review continued below was originally published in 2013, the year of the inaugural event. To plan your Qasr Al Hosn Festival 2016 visit, details for current event & exhibition dates, timings and info are available on the official website
‘Story Of A Fort, Legacy Of A Nation’ illustrates the significance of the fort in the heritage and history of the UAE in a grand theatrical production showing daily.
Qasr Al Hosn Festival Experience
The open-air exhibition features 4 themed zones: Marine area, Abu Dhabi Island, Desert and Oasis life.
The space is designed to navigate easily so that no aspect is missed; there is so much not only to see but there are workshops in which to learn.
UAE Culture & Heritage
Traditional craftsmen and ladies skilled in henna design, Arabian perfume creation and cheese-making are just some examples of activities and live demonstrations.
60 souk stalls in the exhibition areas sell a wide variety of items related to UAE culture and tradition such as portraits made of camel skin, falcon equipment and honey.
On my journey through the Desert I discovered a female camel with her 3-month-old baby.
Camel rides for both adults and children are possible, as well as the opportunity to learn about the unique importance of camels to the UAE.
The ‘Police Station’ houses an exhibition of historic images of Abu Dhabi Police, who guard the building in uniform from the late 1960s.
Sitting in the comfort of a Bedouin tent watching a UAE folk dance performance and enjoying Arabian coffee and dates was a memorable experience at the festival.
For further information about the history of the fort, event details and ticket information view the Festival Website.
Top tips for your visit to Qasr Al Hosn Festival
- Qasr Al Hosn Festival runs daily until 9 March 2013
- View the timings of Qasr Al Hosn Exhibition and Muntada Qasr Al Hosn
- See performances on stage in front of the ancient fort at Qasr Al Hosn Festival at 7pm and 9:30pm featuring authentic Emirati music
- Wear appropriate footwear as the outdoor exhibition surface is sandy
- See Qasr Al Hosn directions and Qasr Al Hosn Festival location map
- Check Qasr Al Hosn Festival daily timings to plan your visit to the event