Discover Abu Dhabi Festival takes Emirati culture to Moscow

The Discover Abu Dhabi Festival is bringing the culture, heritage and hospitality of the UAE capital to Moscow’s Manezhnaya Square, running from August 19 to 23.

Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the UAE Embassy in Russia, the five-day festival is part of the Moscow Mayor’s 'Summer in Moscow' programme, with support from the Government of Moscow.

The free public event showcases the spirit of Abu Dhabi through live music and cultural performances, traditional crafts, Emirati cuisine and interactive workshops.

Highlights include performances of Al-Ayyala and Al Harbiya, as well as traditional music. Al-Ayyala is recognised on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Visitors can also explore the 'House of Artisans', featuring Talli embroidery, Khos palm-leaf weaving, Sadu weaving and pottery, with live demonstrations by skilled craftspeople.

At 'Bait Al Gahwa', guests can discover the traditional preparation and serving of Arabic coffee in the Emirati majlis.

The 'Maritime Pavilion' showcases Abu Dhabi’s seafaring heritage, including pearl-diving equipment, rope-making, fishing nets and traditional Gargoor fish traps.

An immersive dome offers 360-degree views of Abu Dhabi’s landmarks, cultural sites and natural landscapes.

The festival also features retail spaces selling Emirati handicrafts, souvenirs and perfumes, alongside food stalls serving regional dishes — offering visitors a taste of the traditions and hospitality that define Abu Dhabi.

It runs daily from 10:00 to 21:00 at Manezhnaya Square.