SARA ALZAABI (AL AIN)
Al Ain Dates Festival plays a vital role in raising cultural awareness of date palms, supporting sustainable farming, promoting Emirati dates globally, and showcasing industry innovations, said Zayed Al Mazrouei, Project Manager of Al Ain Dates Festival at the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the inaugural Al Ain Dates Festival is running until January 8 at Al Hili Oasis.
Organised by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, the festival, which kicked off on January 3, celebrates the UAE's rich palm tree heritage and features seven date competitions each focusing on a distinct variety, including Al Ain Elite, Khalas, Fard, Dabbas, Bumaan, Sheeshi, and Zamli.
The festival offers 70 prizes totalling Dh1.756 million, centering on honouring the nation's cultural traditions and promoting eco-friendly farming practices.
"The Al Ain Dates Festival is inspired by the vision of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who paid special attention to date palms as part of the authentic Emirati heritage, considering them a symbol of goodness and giving," Al Mazrouei told Aletihad.
The festival aims to enhance the status of palm trees as a fundamental element in the country's cultural identity and support sustainable agriculture in line with Sheikh Zayed's vision to develop the agricultural sector and preserve natural resources, he said.
As the organiser of the festival, the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority puts particular emphasis on highlighting the UAE's cultural heritage, especially with regard to palm cultivation and date production, Al Mazrouei added.
He noted that to enhance the festival's appeal to both local and global audiences, the organisers have taken a series of measures, mainly regarding accessibility.
The event features exhibitions, competitions, workshops, and entertainment activities, which attract different groups.
They also embarked on intensive media promotion, through traditional and digital media, to ensure widespread awareness.
"We also provide visitor facilities such as transportation, parking, and suitable equipment for families and children. Cultural integration is also key, with artistic and heritage performances that attract international visitors to learn about Emirati culture," he said.
Support for Farmers
The festival supports local farmers by providing them with a platform to showcase their products, and network with buyers, exporters and investors. It also provides them with training and opportunities to take part in competitions.
"The 70 awards are a great incentive for farmers and participants, encouraging positive competition to improve the quality of dates. They also recognise and reward farmers' efforts for implementing sustainable agricultural practices and support innovation in the palm and dates sector, he said.
Al Mazrouei also drew attention to the festival's focus on sustainability, including adopting recycling policies, reducing non-renewable resource consumption, organising sustainability workshops, and collaborating with environmental entities to implement best practices.
According to Al Mazrouei, partnerships play a vital role in the festival's success.
"We have cooperated with agricultural institutions to provide technical support to farmers, local and international companies for sponsorship and marketing, media entities for extensive coverage, and educational institutions to involve students in workshops and awareness activities. These partnerships enhance the festival's position as a major hub for the date industry and showcasing Emirati heritage."