Traditional Handicrafts Festival Returns to Al Ain This November

The 11th Traditional Handicrafts Festival will return to Souq Al Qattara in Al Ain from November 1st to 10th, 2025, offering visitors a chance to explore Emirati heritage through live performances, artisan markets, and traditional cuisine.

Past editions have featured pavilions dedicated to pottery, palm-frond weaving, and Sadu and Talli embroidery, alongside stalls selling medicinal herbs, falconry equipment, Arabic coffee, and Emirati dishes. Performances such as Al Ayyala, a traditional group dance that re-enacts a battle scene, have been central highlights.

Artisans, performers, and food and beverage vendors interested in participating can apply until September 15th through the official link on the Abu Dhabi Culture Instagram page.

This year, the festival will open from 9 AM to 1 PM for school and university groups, and from 4 PM to 11 PM for the general public. Entry is free for all.