Maritime Heritage Festival 2026 - Abu Dhabi

The Maritime Heritage Festival returns in 2026 for its fifth edition, celebrating the maritime traditions that reflect the Emirati spirit of unity and collaboration.

Visitors are invited on a journey into the past to discover the seafaring heritage that continues to shape Emirati culture today.

What to expect

• Maritime family workshops • Traditional Emirati games • Traditional performances • Traditional Maritime Operetta • Maritime reenactments • Jalasat and Fann Al Soot • Maritime-inspired retail experiences • Dhow Immersive Experience • Traditional Emirati crafts

Discounts and Free Entrance (Available on-site only)

• Children Under 5: FREE • Senior Citizens (over 60): FREE • People of Determination: FREE To receive a discount or free admission, visitors must present valid proof of eligibility at the on-site Box Office. Festival rules, terms and conditions apply.

Festival Rules

• Entry is only permitted with a valid ticket • Smoking is not permitted inside the festival • No swimming • Children aged 11 and under are not permitted to purchase tickets or enter unless accompanied by a parent or guardian • Children aged 11 and under are the responsibility of an adult • Do not light fires of any kind • No glass items • No food or drinks except for water, medicine and baby food can be brought in • Please dispose of all litter in the bins • No lighters or matches • No alcohol allowed • No drones Wheelchairs and strollers are permitted • No bikes, scooters, roller blades or hoverboards • Please dress modestly in respect to the local culture • No responsibility will be accepted for any loss or damage to personal belongings • No pets allowed • No scissors, blades, knives or sharp belongings • Re-entry is only permitted with a valid wristband, issued on exit. • Prohibited items will not be stored for visitors. These items must be disposed of before entering • There will be commercial filming and photography throughout the festival. By entering the site and/or participating in the activities, you consent to being filmed and photographed and permit the use of your image or likeness in promotional material

Getting to the Festival

Free Gold Parking Visitors with a valid festival ticket can park in the Gold Parking area, located on Al Hosn Street, and enjoy a complimentary shuttle service to the festival. People of Determination Parking Designated parking spaces for People of Determination are available within the festival. Blue Parking - Paid Self-Parking at the Festival Visitors can park their own vehicles in the designated parking area near the festival venue for AED 80. Festival Drop-off Area Visitors may be dropped off at the designated area beside the festival’s main entrance. Drivers should follow event signageand traffic marshals’ instructions to reach the drop-off area safely.