Al Wathba welcomes more than 3,000 programmes focused on learning, innovation and entertainment.
Abu Dhabi: The Sheikh Zayed Summer Festival 2026 officially opened on Monday in Al Wathba under the patronage of President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and under the directives and supervision of Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court.
The festival, which has drawn strong interest through its registration platform, brings together education, technology, sport and heritage in what organisers describe as the region’s largest educational and entertainment summer event for young people.
In a post on X, Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan said the festival reflects the UAE’s commitment to investing in future generations.
“Today marks the launch of the Sheikh Zayed Summer Festival 2026, an experience that brings together education, innovation, sport and heritage, reflecting our commitment to building the capabilities of future generations,” he said, wishing participating students an inspiring and rewarding summer.
Running until 23 August, the seven-week festival features more than 3,000 programmes and activities for children and teenagers aged six to 18. More than 30 national, academic, security and sports organisations are participating, with all events taking place in fully air-conditioned venues.
Artificial intelligence and technology are among the festival’s central themes. The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence is hosting an “AI and Innovation World” pavilion, where participants can explore emerging technologies through interactive experiences.
The Higher Colleges of Technology is offering workshops on AI-powered website design, cybersecurity, drone technology and engineering, while the Abu Dhabi Centre for Technical and Vocational Education and Training is providing programmes aimed at developing students’ skills in digital manufacturing and innovation.
The UAE Cyber Security Council is running digital safety programmes to help young people better understand online risks, while Abu Dhabi Police is hosting its interactive “Security Camp” to promote safety awareness and community responsibility.
The festival also features a Creative Media Talents pavilion, organised in collaboration with the Creative Media Authority, where participants can gain hands-on experience across various areas of media production.
Sport is another key focus, with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council organising competitions and training sessions in football, judo, basketball, table tennis, archery and chess. The Abu Dhabi Winter Sports Club is overseeing the festival’s indoor ice-skating arena.
Visitors can also immerse themselves in Emirati culture at the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority pavilion, which showcases a traditional Emirati Majlis, heritage crafts and local cuisine. The Emirates Foundation is offering programmes on Emirati etiquette, volunteering, horse riding and camel riding.
Other participating organisations include the National Library and Archives, the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority and the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, each presenting educational workshops and interactive activities.
The festival also includes Al Wathba Wonderland, gaming zones and family entertainment, alongside the Al Wathba Date Festival, the Productive Families event and a Back to School initiative.
Free shuttle bus services are available from several locations across Abu Dhabi. Participants who complete the programmes will receive accredited certificates and have the opportunity to win prizes.
The festival will run daily from 10am to 10pm until 23 August, with educational programmes taking place during the day and entertainment activities scheduled for the evening.
