The Summer Festival officially opened in Abu Dhabi, offering thousands of educational and entertainment activities for children and teenagers throughout the school holidays. The Summer Festival combines learning, innovation, sports, and Emirati heritage in one destination, creating an engaging environment for young participants. Furthermore, the event reflects the UAE’s continued commitment to developing future generations through education, technology, and cultural enrichment.
The festival takes place in Al Wathba under the patronage of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and under the directives and supervision of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.
Organizers describe the event as one of the region’s largest educational and entertainment festivals for children and young people. The programme attracted strong interest through its registration platform before the official opening.
The festival will run until August 23, offering seven weeks of activities. Children and teenagers aged between six and eighteen can take part in more than 3,000 educational, cultural, and recreational programmes. More than 30 government, academic, security, and sports organizations are participating in the event.
Organizers are hosting all activities inside fully air-conditioned venues, allowing visitors to enjoy the festival comfortably throughout the summer.
Technology and innovation play a major role in this year’s programme. The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence is presenting an interactive pavilion dedicated to artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Young visitors can explore practical demonstrations while learning about future digital innovations.
The Higher Colleges of Technology are also delivering specialized workshops throughout the festival. Participants can study artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, engineering, drone technology, and website development. These programmes aim to strengthen practical digital skills while encouraging innovation.
The Abu Dhabi Centre for Technical and Vocational Education and Training is offering additional activities focused on digital manufacturing and modern technologies. Students can gain practical experience while exploring future career opportunities in technical industries.
Digital safety also receives significant attention during the festival. The UAE Cyber Security Council is providing awareness programmes that teach participants how to stay safe online and recognize digital threats. These sessions encourage responsible internet use while strengthening cybersecurity awareness among younger generations.
Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi Police is operating an interactive Security Camp where participants learn about safety, responsibility, and community awareness through engaging activities and demonstrations.
Creative industries also feature prominently throughout the event. The Creative Media Authority is presenting a dedicated pavilion where aspiring creators can develop practical skills in media production and content creation.
Sports remain another major attraction at the festival. The Abu Dhabi Sports Council is organizing competitions and training sessions across several disciplines. Activities include football, basketball, judo, table tennis, archery, and chess. Visitors can also enjoy indoor ice skating through facilities managed by the Abu Dhabi Winter Sports Club.
Cultural heritage also plays a central role in the festival. The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority is showcasing traditional Emirati customs through heritage exhibitions, local crafts, traditional hospitality, and authentic cuisine. Visitors can learn about the country’s history while experiencing its cultural traditions.
The Emirates Foundation is contributing educational programmes covering Emirati etiquette, volunteering, horse riding, and camel riding. These activities help participants connect with national values while developing practical life skills.
Several additional government organizations are also participating in the event. Educational workshops cover health, food safety, civil defense, archives, agriculture, and community development. Interactive activities encourage learning through hands-on experiences.
Families can also enjoy dedicated entertainment zones throughout the festival. Attractions include Al Wathba Wonderland, gaming experiences, the Al Wathba Date Festival, productive family exhibitions, and Back to School initiatives.
Organizers are providing free shuttle bus services from several locations across Abu Dhabi, making transportation easier for visitors. Participants who successfully complete educational programmes will receive accredited certificates and become eligible for prize opportunities.
The festival welcomes visitors daily from 10:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Educational sessions take place during the day, while entertainment activities continue throughout the evening. As thousands of young people participate this summer, the Summer Festival continues promoting education, innovation, and cultural development while creating a memorable experience for families across the UAE.
