Abu Dhabi takes Emirati culture to Moscow with five-day festival

Abu Dhabi is showcasing Emirati culture to Moscow with a five-day festival called Discover Abu Dhabi Festival. The event, held at Manezhnaya Square until August 23, is part of Moscow mayor's Summer in Moscow programme. Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the UAE Embassy in Russia, the festival aims to introduce Russian audiences to Emirati traditions through various activities.

The festival features traditional crafts such as palm-leaf weaving, camel wool weaving, and talli embroidery. Visitors can also learn about Emirati music and performances, including the oud, qanun, violin, and percussion, as well as Al Ayala and Al Harbiya, an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Other highlights include Arabic calligraphy, Emirati clothing, henna, and falconry, as well as traditional sweets and coffee experiences.

The festival highlights Abu Dhabi's historic maritime heritage through rope-making, gargoor fish traps, and al deyeen. Russian audiences can also enjoy Emirati food, watch live cooking demonstrations, and participate in workshops for children, including storytelling and traditional games. An immersive six-metre dome provides visitors with a 360-degree view of Abu Dhabi's landmarks, blending its heritage with its modern identity. The free event runs daily from 10am to 9pm until Sunday.