Al Ain Hosts Inaugural Rutab Festival to Celebrate Date Heritage

Jul 26, 2026

68 min

Jul 26, 2026 16:30

Al Ain launches first Rutab Festival to celebrate date heritage, support farmers and boost food security

## Festival Launch

The first Al Ain Rutab Festival has commenced at Al Sarooj Park, under the patronage of Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, the festival runs until July 31, aiming to support farmers and preserve the UAE's date palm heritage.

## Celebrating Date Palms

The festival is part of a broader Rutab Season, following the Liwa Date Festival. It highlights Al Ain's historic oases, known for producing high-quality dates, and seeks to enhance marketing opportunities for farmers while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

## Events and Competitions

The festival features 19 competitions with over 245 prizes, totaling more than Dh5 million. Categories include various date varieties, the Largest Date Bunch, and creative works from date palm trunks. Competitions for mangoes, lemons, and figs also showcase Al Ain's agricultural diversity.

## Supporting Farmers and Heritage

Obaid Khalfan Al Mazrouei, Executive Director at the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, emphasized the festival's role in strengthening the community's connection to date palms and supporting farmers. The event provides a platform for knowledge exchange and highlights the date palm's significance in Emirati culture and food security.

## Visitor Experience

Open daily from 4pm to 10pm, the festival offers heritage activities, entertainment, and a traditional market. It brings together farmers, experts, and the public to celebrate the UAE's agricultural traditions and cultural heritage.

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