From Feb. 11–21, Abu Dhabi will celebrate the annual Qasr Al Hosn Festival with a program dedicated to honoring the United Arab Emirates’ rich culture and history. Qasr Al Hosn fort is the symbolic birthplace of Abu Dhabi and served as the residence of the ruling family for centuries. The fort continues to be a focal point for showcasing the emirate’s traditions and heritage through this yearly celebration.
This year’s festival highlights the fort’s conservation journey and explores its historic roles, offering rare access to areas not usually open to the public, including the inner fort and the National Consultative Council Chamber. Complementing the festival, a new Qasr Al Hosn exhibition will open to provide visitors with a clear narrative of the fort’s historical significance and its role in Abu Dhabi’s development.
The Qasr Al Hosn Festival will feature a lively mix of visual and performing arts, traditional workshops, and interactive cultural experiences designed for all ages. Among the program’s highlights is the return of the National Pavilion—the UAE’s exhibition from the 14th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia—bringing contemporary architectural dialogue back to the fort. A diverse music program will run throughout the festival, and specially commissioned works by Emirati artists will be presented, reflecting local creative voices and contemporary interpretations of heritage. A cultural experience exhibition will further deepen visitors’ understanding of local customs, crafts, and traditions.
Visitors can expect hands-on workshops that celebrate traditional skills and crafts, guided tours that explain ongoing conservation efforts, and performances that showcase both classical and modern Emirati artistic expression. The festival is designed to be accessible and engaging, inviting residents and visitors to connect with Abu Dhabi’s past while experiencing how heritage informs the present.
By opening restored spaces and introducing curated exhibitions, the festival emphasizes the importance of preserving historic landmarks while encouraging public participation in cultural stewardship. The initiative not only commemorates Qasr Al Hosn’s central place in the history of Abu Dhabi but also supports contemporary cultural production through commissions and collaborations with local artists and cultural organizations.
Overall, the Qasr Al Hosn Festival offers a rich program that blends history, conservation, art, and community engagement. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the fort’s architecture and stories, enjoy performances and exhibitions, and take part in workshops that keep traditional crafts alive. The festival reaffirms Qasr Al Hosn’s role as a living cultural landmark and a gateway for understanding Abu Dhabi’s heritage.