Today's Edition
KHALED AL KHAWALDEH (ABU DHABI)
Saadiyat Island is welcoming visitors with a vibrant schedule of cultural activities and late-night celebrations this Ramadan. The Louvre Abu Dhabi is giving guests the chance to deepen their understanding of Islamic philosophy through a special series of talks organised in collaboration with NYU Abu Dhabi Institute.
The first, "Hayy Ibn Yaqzan and His Castaway Companions", taking place on 8 March, will explore how Ibn Tufayl's 12th-century masterpiece laid the foundation for the castaway genre and influenced works such as Robinson Crusoe and the film Cast Away.
On March 15 at 9.30pm, "The Brethren of Purity and the Enduring Legacy of Animal Fables", will examine the pivotal role of Islamic fables in shaping tales from Aesop's classics to much-loved stories like Peter Rabbit and 101 Dalmatians. The session also brings traditional Hakawati storytelling flair to life.
Throughout the Holy Month, Louvre Abu Dhabi is also inviting visitors to enjoy new food pop-ups under its striking dome. Art enthusiasts can take advantage of late-night hours for the museum's current exhibition, "Kings and Queens of Africa: Forms and Figures of Power", which will remain open until 1am every night during Ramadan.
Just down the road at Manarat Al Saadiyat, the Holy Month is being marked with the return of the Ramadan Arcade Nights. Running from Marchc15 to 25, between 9pm and 2am, visitors can immerse themselves in arcade and board games, tournaments and live performances, as well as a special comedy show showcasing local comedians.
This year's setup includes a Ladies' Pink Majlis featuring henna, calligraphy, jewellery making and pop-up retail outlets, all complemented by traditional live instrumental music.
Bait Al Oud's grand orchestra will mark the opening night, and AD Gaming will give Assassins Creed fans the chance to preview the new release at a special launch event from March 20 to 25.
Manarat Al Saadiyat will also host several art activations, inviting audiences to join in reimagining beloved pastimes and cultural traditions.
Artist Hind Al Rais offers a new perspective on the classic Carrom game, examining its place in social gatherings over time. Photographer Abdulla Almheiri will present "CONCEPT", an immersive photo booth installation exploring culture and light, while Rizq Art Initiative has set up a live studio and exhibition that actively involves visitors in the artistic process, allowing them to shape the experience in real time.
Ramadan will also see the return of the "Mirbad" pop-up festival to Saadiyat Island, which brings together dozens of Emirati and international fashion brands, running from March 6 to 10.
