UAE: Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed visits Al Hosn Festival 2026
Abu Dhabi, January 17
Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has visited Al Hosn Festival 2026, organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi at the historic Qasr Al Hosn site until 1 February 2026.
During the visit, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed reviewed several handicraft exhibitions and artistic works that reflect Emirati cultural identity and highlight the heritage of Abu Dhabi, through cultural activities aimed at raising awareness of the values of national heritage and embedding its presence in everyday community life.
Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan affirmed that Al Hosn Festival and other cultural and heritage events represent a fundamental pillar in safeguarding national identity, reinforcing awareness of its values among younger generations, and passing cultural heritage to present and future generations through contemporary approaches that strengthen intergenerational connection and preserve culture as a core element of national identity.
Accompanying Sheikh Khaled during the visit were Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs; Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence; Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State; Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Chairman of the National Anti-Narcotics Agency; Sheikh Nahyan bin Saif bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Deputy Minister of State; and Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan; along with several sheikhs and their children.
In its tenth edition, Al Hosn Festival features a wide range of events and activities that reflect authentic Emirati identity and heritage, highlighting the cultural values and social legacy that have shaped the community of Abu Dhabi across generations.
Over 16 days, the festival presents a series of cultural, artistic and entertainment programmes that showcase the rich diversity of Emirati heritage and encourage community participation through live and innovative experiences.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Great initiative! The UAE and India share a deep respect for history and tradition. Events like this strengthen cultural diplomacy. Many Indian expats in Abu Dhabi would love to attend and learn about Emirati heritage.
While it's good to see leaders promoting culture, I hope the focus is on genuine community engagement and not just a show for officials. Sometimes these events can feel exclusive. The real test is how accessible it is to the common people.
The emphasis on "intergenerational connection" is key. In a fast-changing world, keeping youth connected to their roots is a challenge everywhere. The 16-day festival sounds like a fantastic immersive experience.
As someone who has worked in the Gulf, I appreciate how the UAE balances modernity with tradition. This festival is a model other nations could follow. Jai Hind!
Handicraft exhibitions are the soul of any culture. I hope they are showcasing the work of local artisans properly. In India, we need to do more to protect our craftspeople from being overshadowed by cheap imports.
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